I would suggest driving both Land Rover and the sport model. I find the non sport version superior.
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No it does not handle as well as the Porsche SUV, however the ride is better and more luxurious. If your diving includes traffic, interstate, go everywhere mountain roads, snow, mud, off road, the RR can’t be beat. Visibility is a thing to behold.

 

My wife and I absolutely love the Range Rovers, and have considered many a time buying a Disco II, LR3, RR, RR Sport. Each time, I read the RR forums regarding service issues and it quickly convinces me to look elsewhere.

 

Mogen - You have the 997TT for the fun and power. Of the cars you are considering, the X5 will compliment it best.
I personally wouldn't get that car (I'd opt for a used ML63, RR Sport SC, etc.), but the X5 seems to entertain your needs. Good luck!

 

Service issues are highly overstated. My first one was a 98 and I put 120K miles on it. I was upset at one point due to cost of a particular part, however when I looked back on the whole experience I ended up trading it in for another in 2004. Both my wife and I shed a tear when we said good buy.

Now with 30K + miles on the new one, it has had two minor warranty issues which were promptly taken care of by the dealer. Out of 4, this is the vehicle which gets used the most in our household. When the weather goes south, there is nothing better.

 

I have an '02 4.4L X5 that my wife drives. Its a great family car and you can haul the dog, etc. My opinion is...if you need a SUV, I think the new X5 is very nice, classy, fun, nice options and plenty of power. I'll definitely buy one in the next year or so. If you don't need SUV, I would love to have a M5 for my family daily driver. My personal daily driver....my 996tt...i just have to drive it..can't stop myself

 

Try an E63...looks similar to the E55 but takes the handling to a whole new level. The 7-speed tranny is awesome.

 

He doesnt like AMG cars. I say get the new X5, Mogen. I'm tempted...really tempted.

BTW, how did the test-driving go today? I looked for you at Bellevue BMW earlier today.

 

My old mans got an E63 and handling is (IMO) not its forte. Dull steering feedback, there almost a 'delay' in handling feel if you know what I mean. Straight line its freaking fast though.

 

there is obviously no right answer-it totally depends on your budget. i use my 997tt as my daily driver-all that i need is an awd car for when the snow is real deep, otherwise i put winter tires on the turbo it and drive it all winter. any of the cars that you listed are good.

 

My wife has an X5 and I have an IS350. I LOVE my daily and the wife loves the BMW. I will tell you though that the X5 (in my opinion) has a dated interior that leaves a lot to be desired. In addition, the service at BMW is such crap that I will NEVER buy another one again. I'd say go with an E55 amg or a Range Rover Sport S/C.
Peter

 

Does your wife have a new x5?

 

No, her's is an 05...the new x5 has a much nicer interior than the one my wife has. But, I will tell you, nothing can make up for the **** service that we have experienced here with several dealers in Houston. I have actually taken her truck to different dealers in hopes of better service, but it's sucked everywhere. I think we're going to go to a Lexus SUV or Merc SUV next...
Peter

 

Sorry to hear about your experience. I almost bought a new x5 as compliment to my TT. But settled on an x3.

 

Done the deed - ordered a 335i man; silver/black; Prem; Sport; cold; nav; PDC - the dealer is trying to do a swap with one thats at the VPC, so I could have that one in about 2 weeks if available, or build date will be next week - should be here late April/early May.
I liked the power and ride of the X5 4.8, but I figured I'm just not an SUV guy. The dealer also had a new '06 M5, that I can get for invoice , but the color is just not for me - Indy red (metalic burgundy) - could look good with a lite tint and gun metal rims - its at Seattle BMW if anybody interested.
Thanks again for all the suggestions - and my son is taking my IS350, so it stays in the family...
Also, I had a change of heart about the color - I originally wanted a black/terra - but, one black car is one too many to keep clean in Seattle

 

Go with the RS4 ... that's what I'd chose