Hello, am new to the forum. I've got an 02 330xi which has been great (despite the above average maintenance required, in my situation..), especially here in Calgary, Alberta where we get snow for 4 months of the year (...or more sometimes...). I now have 2 young children, and am considering moving up to something a little larger/spacious, and more power. For me, AWD is a relevant consideration, although I love the specs and reviews on the 550i (but hate the idea of having to change tires twice a year...). I am having a tough time narrowing my choices down. Am thinking of the following few choices, price is always a consideration at some point:

1. BMW 530 xi - has the AWD, great exterior..
2. Audi A6 4.2 Quattro- has the AWD, v8 power, interior very appealing
3. Lexus GS350 - Good HP, comfy interior, and AWD
4. Infinitu M35X - impressed more with the interior than the exterior

I am not an "extreme" driver, just the occasional need for speed...that, and a fairly comfortable ride, I don't want to feel every tiny bump in the road...just looking for comments and feedback from others. Thanks

 

I have an 05 4.2. It is a great car and recommend it. It is incredible in the snow. I have driven the Lexus and was not impressed. I drove the BMW and it was a nice car, but underpowered. I did not like the interior in the Infiniti, a little too modern for me.

 

I think you need to decide if you want a european car or a japanese car. If you like the europeans, then you have to accept the maintenance that goes along with them. I believe they are nicer, better cars. The japanese make great cars, and the cars you listed are good cars. Audi has the best AWD system, but really in the end, any will do for general winter driving. Between the BMW and the Audi, I would say Audi for creature comforts and the Quattro system, BMW for general fun to drive and resale. The Lexus is boring, joyless and the Infiniti requires you two swipe your AARP card to start it.

In the end, preference.

 

Thanks for the input, guys....