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Originally Posted by DinanX5
Hey everyone! Long time, no post....
So I was reading about the e70 X5 in last month's Roundel, and it described the functioning of the xDrive system exactly the same as it is in the face-lifted e53, and the X3.
I thought I'd read somewhere (on this forum, probably) that the e70 was going to get xDrive "II", where the electronic diffy could vary torque not just between the front and rear axles, but side to side as well (as opposed to calling upon ABS to limit wheel spin within a given Axle) I guess this new system didn't make it into the e70 (?)
Also, the article briefly mentioned the role DSC and DTC play in the functionality of xDrive... and how it's possible to disengage DSC (which we all know is done by pressing the DSC button on the center console) - which leaves xDrive operating with only the DTC. But apparently you can also disengage the DTC and let xDrive manage traction on its own.
I seem to remember reading (also, probably on this forum) that this can be done in the e53 too... something about holding down the button for 3 seconds maybe (?) Anybody know the details?
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The description of xDrive II that you cited is actually a description of xDrive I first introduced on the 2004 X3's and X5's. Here's the quote from Wikipedia describing the 2004 X5:
"For 2004 the X5 was refreshed with new headlights, a few new exterior colors, a new four-wheel drive system and upgraded engines. The exterior touches kept it fresh and gave the X5 a more aggressive look. The grilles were enlarged, as well as their actual slats being modified in a 'flame surfaced' style. In keeping with the E39 refresh of 2001, the 2004 X5's headlights got "angel-eyes" (rings or halos around all front headlamps). The taillights also got an E39-style refresh treatment and the exterior glass went from a "dotted" pattern to a cleaner one of "lines".
BMW invented a new four-wheel drive system dubbed xDrive shared both in the X5 and X3 in 2004. Instead of using the previous X5 system which consisted of power being split 60-40 (rear wheels-front wheels) and DSC to brake wheels losing traction, xDrive could variably cut off power to the front or rear axles in a matter of milliseconds, while transferring 100% of the engine power to either, thus allowing the vehicle to regain traction quickly."
I haven't found a formal description of what exactly changed with xDrive II. I'm guessing it might be stronger, lighter, and faster, but from a functional design standpoint, pretty much the same as xDrive I.