I’m torn between getting a loaded Subaru Outback Touring XT and a BMW 540i X drive. Either will be comfortably affordable. My question is, is the 5 with an ~$850 payment worth nearly double the Outback’s ~$450 payment? I worry that if I get the Outback I will always wish I had gone for the Subaru, but simultaneously I don’t believe in spending more than is necessary.

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BMW and it’s not even close. The x40i’s are the B58 engine, aka Supra engine, and it’s the best engine in existence currently. You will get almost 400hp and avg 30mpg. I say this as someone who was shopping for top trim Subaru Outbacks, looked at how much they cost, and ended up with an X3 M40i as a result. It is SO much more performance (Subaru engines are TRAGIC these days, let alone the CVT transmissions), SO much more luxury, and SO much more value for money. Worth every single penny to upgrade to the BMW over the Subaru. Even the dealer experience when you have to go maintain your car (BMW is giving 3 years of included maintenance, I negotiated for 5 and still got a 10% discount). I will add the caveat that my X3 is the last gen of iDrive which still have physical buttons and I’m not as keen on the newest iDrive which is touch screen everything, but even considering that the Subaru infotainment is trash and BMWs worst infotainment is still better than Subarus best.

I just cannot stress enough that I was in the same position as you, the only difference is I went with an X3 instead of a 5-series, I’ve had this car for 2 years and still every single day I get in this car I think about how happy I am I got it over the Subaru. I wouldn’t be singing the same tune if it was a 4cyl BMW, but I cannot overstate how good the B58 engine in the 40’s is. You will absolutely regret going with the Subaru. Also, go on leasehackr forums (not just for leasing) and find someone who works on BMWs, plenty of deals to be had. You pay a guy $700 and he saves you $7000 (in my experience).

Anyways the only thing I need you to get from this is that you ABSOLUTELY go for the BMW with the B58 motor you will be happy for YEARS

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I miss my x3m40 all the time and my cars since have been a $100k iX and a $100k C8

I have a X3 M40i, among a few BMWs that we own (M2 & M5)… there is no comparison between a Suby and a BMW… that’s like comparing a G-Shock to a Tag Heuer… or a pair of Sketchers to a pair of On-Clouds… it’s night and day…

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think you’re in a great spot, and I agree with others that the BMW 540 is a fantastic car. The Subaru will be reliable and pleasant, but the 5 Series is simply in a different league. One suggestion: look at certified pre-owned 5 Series models that are one or two years old — demo cars under 10k miles can go for 20% off sticker. Luxury cars take a huge depreciation hit upfront, so CPO is usually the smartest move, with the near-new experience and full warranty.

For what it’s worth, I recently picked up a CPO demo Land Rover Defender with under 10k miles for mid-50s. I had been cross-shopping a brand-new Honda Passport or a base Land Cruiser at a similar price. Longevity might differ, but I’m extremely happy with the value and experience I got by going CPO

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This decision boils down to personal preference and perception of value. The Subie is a perfectly ok car that will get you from A to B, and surely is loaded with all the tech that modern cars provide. The bimmer will check all the same boxes while also being smother, quieter, nicer finishes inside and out, and probably a few bells and whistles not offered by Suburu. Many people don't think that the extra monthly payment and much high TCO is worth the experience, while others can justify the cost.

I personally sold the Mustang GT that I bought new to pickup a CPO Mercedes E400. Similar payment, very different and more refined driving experience. There was nothing wrong with the Ford, but the plastic bits and over all fit and finish just wasn't there. My other vehicle is a BMW X4, so I had already been introduced to the luxury class, and learned what I do and don't like.

I will say that without the income to support the purchase of a larger luxury, my Mustang was a great car and I'd own another one.

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*gone for the BMW. I clearly had not had my second cup of coffee

Outback, canadians drive so you know its reliable.

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