[TXSchnee]

Just finished test driving an M550i and X5 50i at my dealer. Wondering how the merino leather would hold up to a 5 point booster car seat. I do use pads under the car seat that cover the leather, but my SA did comment that the merino is thinner than the vernasca, and will wear more. I generally keep my cars for 4-6 years, so not sure if this would be an issue for me, or a second owner.

[Tenac]

With pad you are good and have no worries.

[TXSchnee]

As a side note, on my test drive I had a Range Rover Sport SVR trying to chase me down. It couldn't keep up on the back road (Spicewood Springs for those familiar with ATX) and I easily out accelerated it once I turned onto the highway (360). Really impressed with the V8.

[davramic]

merino = required. Regardless of which model you are on, the vernasca and other lower level leathers on BMW just don't look or feel luxurious. The only time I would change this is if you have small kids or large pets where durability is more of a concern. Merino does mark up/sratch/rough/patina more easily.

[WAHF80M3]

We've got Merino and a four year old. No issues for us 😀

[sygazelle]

Originally Posted by TXSchnee

As a side note, on my test drive I had a Range Rover Sport SVR trying to chase me down. It couldn't keep up on the back road (Spicewood Springs for those familiar with ATX) and I easily out accelerated it once I turned onto the highway (360). Really impressed with the V8.

Wait, what? You got into a street race while on a test drive?

[dream54ing]

Originally Posted by sygazelle

Wait, what? You got into a street race while on a test drive?

haha, was thinking the same thing!

[BMWPenPen]

Originally Posted by davramic

merino = required. Regardless of which model you are on, the vernasca and other lower level leathers on BMW just don't look or feel luxurious. The only time I would change this is if you have small kids or large pets where durability is more of a concern. Merino does mark up/sratch/rough/patina more easily.

I plan on ordering my X5 in less than a year with 2 human kids and 2 furry kids (German Shephard Mix and a Golden Retriever). I have to have the Merino though. Can anyone recommend a great pad to protect the back? Or will a blanket work?