I went for quite a while using manual shift and I couldn't help but let the revs go higher before shifting. Feels completely like a different car - not to mention - it was entirely too tedious shifting it early and often.

BTW, is it completely safe to let the computer downshift when coming to stops everytime? I find it's doing a fine job of that anyway so I didn't bother, at all. I feel kind of guilty/reserved messing with manual shift though - new tranny and all. 5.5 months and still under 2k miles... but loving it everytime I'm out there.

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'08 X5 3.0si - Alpine White / Saddle Brown interior
Specs: Sport Pkg, Premium Pkg, Tech Pkg, Comfort Access, Aero Kit, Style 433 staggered 20s on Conti DWS
Mods: Carbon 35 tint, LED angel eyes, GP Thunder 7500k fogs, H&R 20mm/25mm spacers, clear reflectors, gunsmoke-tinted taillights
Coded: Digital speedo, windows/sunroof/tailgate close via keyfob

X5 pics at Flickr