BMW X-3 - father-in-law WTB

[John Clay]

My father-in-law is looking at 2-3 year old BMW X-3's. He's considering other vehicles as well. He drives a lot of miles, but needs something that can tow his small i/o boat as well. The towing side isn't that important on his list - I think the pull from his house to the boat ramp is less than a mile. However - he insists on a "factory tow package" on what he gets.

Any opinions on the X-3?, or other suggestions for vehicles to consider.

[racer]

Budget? I admit to not being sure if BMW offered a "tow package" on the X3 in the traditional sense of various upgraded components.

How steep is the ramp?

[John Clay]

Budget < $30K. I don't really have anything to compare the ramp to. He's been pulling with a Ford Escape.