I’ve been shopping around for a couple of weeks to replace the '03 E320 (was actually a great car, just a couple of minor first year problems, quickly taken care of - been trouble free since then!). Looked primarily at the E350 4matic, ML350 and also a couple of Lexus models. Also test drove the CLK 350 in case I wanted a sportier car.

Then I test drove the 525xi and 530xi this week - what awesome cars! I hadn't been fond of the styling when they first came out, but it grew on me over the last couple of years, to the point where I really thing they're great looking cars. Plus, they drive incredibly - no comparison to anything else! Stopped by the dealerships again today to take a final test run - E350 4matic vs. 530xi - and just loved the 530xi. They had one on the lot pretty loaded - silver grey with beige interior (I had the stone with the E320 and liked it), plus steptronic, premium package, premium sound, nav, cold weather, sport package, 18" star spoke alloy wheels, and park distance. More than I would have ordered, but it was an awesome car, so I bought it! Can't wait to pick it up on Tuesday.

Lot's of good stuff on this board, been checking it out over the past week as I was making my decision - pretty psyched to be a BMW owner!!