Hello to all. I am new to BMW's, my wife and I have been shopping for a compact SUV. The Acura RDX, Mazda CX-7, and now the X3.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p>
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I drove the 07 X3 (non sport) for the first time today. Overall I think it is a good car, the ride is a little choppy but not terribly so. The 6 speed auto, responds well and the engine as always is excellent.<o:p></o:p>
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Here is my only problem. I have always owned my cars and been against leasing. The price to own the X3 is huge by comparison to the lease. I can't swing enough down payment to get the purchase payment down to a reasonable level. Plus we are talking about having kids, and in 2 years I may need a bigger car anyway.<o:p></o:p>
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Here is what they offered. All this was the dealer’s first offer, I haven't even begun negotiations yet.<o:p></o:p>
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Sticker $40670 (car is on the dealer lot)<o:p></o:p>
Selling price $38900<o:p></o:p>
Residual $ 31,315 (77%)<o:p></o:p>
24 months<o:p></o:p>
15000 miles per year<o:p></o:p>
acc fee $625<o:p></o:p>
money factory .00150<o:p></o:p>
$450 deposit (refundable)<o:p></o:p>
Total due at delivery $2025.50 including first months payment.<o:p></o:p>
$446 per month including $25.28, 6% CT tax<o:p></o:p>
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I will continue to research the lease price, but you guys all have a lot more experience than I in negotiating a lease sale.<o:p></o:p>
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Thanks for any help you can provide.<o:p></o:p>
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Try out this site to check the lease numbers:

http://leaseguide.com/calc.htm

I have noticed BMW if offering some great lease deals on X3's....I haven't always been so crazy about the styling, great cars thoug I think - I been tempted to go run some numbers on one with the current offers.