I've been looking at small, sporty wagons recently. It all started because I was thinking about buying one of the "fixed" VW Jetta Tdi Sport Wagons, (JSW), and then started looking around at other similar sized vehicles. My requirements are that the rear seats fold flat, (they do not in the JSW or BMW E90), and otherwise as small as possible in outside dimensions. I like smallish, sporty cars because 98% of my driving is in a crowded city and let's face it, they are more fun.
I was having dinner in Monterey a few weeks ago and while talking to my friend on the sidewalk afterwards, there was a BMW E90 wagon a few feet away. I thought to myself, "self, that is one sweet little package." I'm still looking at them online but one big complaint is that the back seats do not fold down flat! Can't believe it...the seat back only folds down on top of lower cushion making a "ramp" for the final 2' of seat down cargo space. Total BS for me. I want something that will haul large boxes and that I can nap in on long road trips comfortably or car camp. The e90 is marginally too small for that anyway.
My search morphed over to X3s, I've always liked their size and styling. Not sure if seats fold flat but I'm thinking they do. Both of these cars suffer from some of the famous BMW QC and maintenance issues but not too bad, the 328 motor in the e90 is NA and has a timing chain, etc. Still pretty DIY friendly.
Spilling over from the other thread, reliability DOES matter to me but I will sacrifice Toyota level quality for BMW fun up to a point. I'm open to suggestion and want to hear from anyone who has owned a late model X3, (2010 or newer). The other rig I really like is the Ford Escape w eco boost from 2013-up but they seem smaller and they hold their value pretty well...a loaded X3 w low miles is actually cheaper!
Flame away and let's hear some informed opinions, actual experience, etc..