ML 350 vs BMW X5. Need educated advice!

[J.HIDALGO]

I will be in the market for an SUV in the next 8 weeks. Since the primary driver for this vehicle will be my wife, I do want a SUV safe, easy to drive and reliable. I know the new ML is coming out in 2006 but I think I may get a 2002 or 2003 certified vehicles to avoid the depreciation
I test drove both vehicles yesterday. They were both '05's. I hate to admit but, the BMW ride was better than the ML. The ML finish looked better than the BMW. The ML since bigger than the BMW. I know the problems with the ML's but I do not know much about the BMW. Any personal advice or any internet sites similar to this one to get some advice?
One more thing. What are forum members paying for their NEW ML's and what would be a good out the door price?
I already did some search in this site and I did not get much info.
Thanks in advance!