Hi Glos Guy, Agree. Private buyers are waking up to the advantages of the demonised “fuel of the Antichrist” None better for larger SUVs. My brother had use of an X7 40D for a year. Fabulous until you needed to park it. Since then, a more sensible 3 series touring 30D and now a M40d. He raves about the 40D, but I haven’t experienced it as could not get out again without a hoist. Sounds good from the outside for a diesel.
I’d never use 7 seats (rarely use 4), so the extra size (and cost) of an X7 would be a waste. Besides, I dislike the look of the X7 and much prefer the X5. Someone at the physio centre that I take my wife has an 3 Series M40d Touring which, I must say, looks fabulous in a striking blue with red brake callipers, but I’ve not heard it running. The owner used to have an M3 Touring, so I’m guessing that they don’t feel that it’s much of a step down!