Here's what BMW has to say about Active Steering:

"Active Steering
When BMW first introduced Active Steering to the market in 2003, our drivers weren't the only ones who were impressed. It received the Innovation Award of German Industry, too. The technology allows for a variable steering ratio based on your speed. At low speeds, steering is nimble (10:1) for easy navigation in tight spaces. At high speeds, greater movement of the steering wheel is required to turn the front wheels the same amount (18:1), for increased stability. Most car companies split the difference with a constant 14:1 ratio, but we're not ones to compromise - even with our steering ratio."


I have the plain jane "engine speed sensitive power steering." I'm going to drop by the dealer and drive another new X5 to see what the steering is like. If it is just as stiff, then I'll just hit the gym. I'm also going to check tire pressures just to be sure.

Thanks for the thoughts.....