[PhilipFreneau]

>> What do I want next? Not sure, but it is unlikely that it will be American (sadly).

The X5 and Z4 are assembled in Greer, South Carolina, not far from where I grew up. The engine/drive train for my X5 came from Europe, but many of the components and accessories are outsourced locally.

[truth_seeker]

"The X5 and Z4 are assembled in Greer, South Carolina, not far from where I grew up. The engine/drive train for my X5 came from Europe, but many of the components and accessories are outsourced locally."

My Mercedes ML320 was assembled in Alabama. I would say the quality of materials is the same as other vehicles in their line, considering price.

Several plastic pieces have failed, which I hear is pretty much par for the course for most cars these days. It is an adjustment, to take it in stride for a Mercedes.

Dealer is excellent with Mercedes. Resale of my ML320 will fare poorly compared to your X5 (although I find the vehicles, performance, utility, quality pretty close).

I do not find my identity with car companies. I like fine quality, in many things (cars, a woman, music, food, places, etc.).

Thus, I can acquire whatever whets my fancy, be it BMW or some other. I do NOT like the back of the new 7. Worse on the preview of the new 6. The new 5 looks okay.

I looked at VW Toureg, and note it won Motor Trend SUV of the Year. Saw their new Phaeton, too--some big car.

At this time a fair chance exists for Euro Delivery in the next year (ML320 lease expires 10/04).