First, let me say that I am a beemer enthusiast. I have owned 3 previous: 1990 7 series; 2001 3 series; and 2003 5 Series (current car). I setout this week to finalize the purchase of a 2006 530i...my plan included writing a check for the entire purchase and being done with the ordeal. Must have equipment: automatic, leather, premium sound, xenon. No sport package.

Visited 3 dealers. All 3 salesman gave me trouble about writing a check for the vehicle versus leasing. Let me just say it took more time during the sales process than I had planned on, and I was surprised by the intimidation I received...even from a salesman I purchased from in the past. All previous purchased beemers were from the same dealer, but with different salesmen.

I decided to shop this time, having conducted a fair amount of research, but did begin to consider the lease option while out today. The problem: 15,000 miles/annually could prove to be difficult. I am in outside sales and miles vary from year to year. I would prefer not to factor in more miles because some years I drive less than 12K.

Here's one deal I encountered on a 545i:

MSRP = $58,890

2005 545i, Orient Blue/Beige
NO SPORT
Leather, auto, PDC, Xenon -- standard
Premium Sound
Satellite Radio (Sirius)
Destination

Discount by dealer to $53,890.00
3-year lease
No deposit
Residual 0.57
Money Factor 1.55
Term 36 months
Miles/yr 15,000
Tax Rate 6.25
Downpayment $0
Monthly Payment 828.72

Questions:

1. First, why the pressure to lease rather than an all out purchase?
2. A good deal on the 545i?
3. Do individuals pay cash any more for new vehicles?

Thank you for your help. If you have any suggestions, I am all ears.