goatboy

The current X5d's days are numbered. There's a new X5 coming late next year, badged as a 2014. Eventually, there's a new six cylinder diesel coming, too. But, they're not offering the current diesel in the current platform for 2013.
There's new emission standards coming in 2013, applicable to 2013 models. I guess BMW doesn't want to upgrade the current engine to meet the new standard.

From BMW's website, it looks like they're building the current X5d through December and badging it as a 2012. So, if you want one, especially a special order, either move fast or wait a long time for the new one.

MJBird993

Or 991 and rent something when you need to take a long trip and require more space/cargo/comfort/foul weather capabilities?

I had my 996 as a DD for a few months and it got old. But I was driving it every day, and that's different from what you describe.

Why not just try it and see what happens?

fbroen

"Why not just try it and see what happens?"

Good point. We have been ferrying dog and all sorts of stuff in it lately. But as long as the Sequoia is there, it is easier to take that for some trips, so not a true test, yet.

mtbscott

I'm considering a 991 purchase and if I do it in the near future, it will have to be my only car for a while anyway. Not too concerned as I don't keep garage queens, I've always used my cars. Folks in the old country would laugh at the uniquely US idea that a Porsche can't be a workhorse (as shown in the recent Porsche Everyday advertising campaign.)
That said, there are still a handful of places I need to go that I couldn't/wouldn't want to drive it so I'd have to either depend on others, rent something, or start shopping for a second vehicle at some point.