[mjposner]

This issue has been raging for 25 years...Just read the Roundel Letters to the Editors. The only real BMW is the 2002, the only real M is the E30 M3, blah blah blah. BMW is a for profit corporation, it analyzes what will make t profitable in conformity with laws and regulations. If people want an X5M and it is a money maker then why not build it. If you don't like it don't buy it. As for Porsche, it is the same thing, Cayenne is terrible blah blah blah diluting brand, blah blah blah. The M3 has been a luxury coupe since at least the E36 and that is what people want, not a 2500 lb no tech track monster. Get over it and if you like the Ms they build now (and I love mine) then buy, if not don't let the door hit your ass on the way out to what ever brand you will complain about next.