The 35d is very quiet - Our new 2009 35d is much quieter than our 2001 4.4i on the road. Sure, there is the diesel 'clatter' at idle and during acceleration. But overall the 35d is better insulated from wind and road noise, even on rough, unpaved, rocky roads (e.g. our long, crushed limestone, construction driveway).

The 35d doors are both lighter and sound more solid than the E53 X5s. -- This is a mixed blessing. On our E53 you could simply let go of the door a few inches away from the jam and it would close completely. With the E70 we need to make sure we push/pull hard enough to get the door fully closed. [FWIW we nearly always keep the moon roof tilted open. So air pressure is not a factor.] This becomes annoying when you start to backup with the driver's door not completely closed. WHAM the X5 slams itself into Park and nags that you really shouldn't try to get out of the car while driving! - DUH. A simple chime w/a door ajar message would do - thanks.

Funf Dreisig