Originally Posted by HangFire
The better half is considering picking up a nearly new used compact utility, especially looking at these two. Has to be 4WD and the optional 3rd row is being considered.
Any actual experiences with either, or same engines, drivetrains, platforms, would be appreciated. Also any hard data out there on reliability.
Vehicle will be used for an hour-ish daily commute (each way) and weekend family trips for a family of 4.
Thank you!
They are both transverse engine, so really not "real" Mercedes or BMW. I drove X1 several times and it is OK. Aisin is programmed very well, probably best of all applications. N20 generation engine had some issues early in X3 and 328i F30 applications, but that has been resolved (timing chain tensioner). I personally would not consider any. X3 would be better option off lease as it is longitudinal application and has ZF transmission.
Mercedes utilizes Xaldex AWD like numerous other vehicles except that it seems that MB did best job in programming. However, their 4cyl engines are so so, and reliability seems worst of all German brands.
IMO, BMW X3, Audi Q5 are best options in that segment and they are definitely different league compared to appliance vehicles or wanna be luxury vehicles. If you could get off lease current generation X3 with B48 engine, would be best (if it fits budget). That engine is ridiculously frugal on gas.
The better half is considering picking up a nearly new used compact utility, especially looking at these two. Has to be 4WD and the optional 3rd row is being considered.
Any actual experiences with either, or same engines, drivetrains, platforms, would be appreciated. Also any hard data out there on reliability.
Vehicle will be used for an hour-ish daily commute (each way) and weekend family trips for a family of 4.
Thank you!
They are both transverse engine, so really not "real" Mercedes or BMW. I drove X1 several times and it is OK. Aisin is programmed very well, probably best of all applications. N20 generation engine had some issues early in X3 and 328i F30 applications, but that has been resolved (timing chain tensioner). I personally would not consider any. X3 would be better option off lease as it is longitudinal application and has ZF transmission.
Mercedes utilizes Xaldex AWD like numerous other vehicles except that it seems that MB did best job in programming. However, their 4cyl engines are so so, and reliability seems worst of all German brands.
IMO, BMW X3, Audi Q5 are best options in that segment and they are definitely different league compared to appliance vehicles or wanna be luxury vehicles. If you could get off lease current generation X3 with B48 engine, would be best (if it fits budget). That engine is ridiculously frugal on gas.