M-Sport?

[spmd11]

What was the M-Sport option on 2008-10 X3s?

[AzNMpower32]

In the US, the "Sport package" was essentially the M sportpaket in other markets, inclusive of the painted aerodynamic kit, M sport steering wheel, M shifter (MT), and M door sills along with the sport suspension and seats.

[spmd11]

So, it was mainly cosmetic? The suspension was not any different than the normal sport package, correct?

[AzNMpower32]

Originally Posted by spmd11

So, it was mainly cosmetic? The suspension was not any different than the normal sport package, correct?

Same suspension.

[ijordan]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

Same suspension.
In the US, the "Sport package" was essentially the M sportpaket in other markets, inclusive of the painted aerodynamic kit, M sport steering wheel, M shifter (MT), and M door sills along with the sport suspension and seats.
In the US, the "Sport package" was essentially the M sportpaket in other markets, inclusive of the painted aerodynamic kit, M sport steering wheel, M shifter (MT), and M door sills along with the sport suspension and seats.

if is the same with M-sportpaket in Europe - then the suspension is a bit lower and a bit harder. The car has also different size tyres for the front and rear.

[spmd11]

But there was two Sport packages for US starting in 2008,
the sport activity, and M-Sport. So I think M-Sport was just
cosmetic

[ijordan]

Originally Posted by spmd11

But there was two Sport packages for US starting in 2008,
the sport activity, and M-Sport. So I think M-Sport was just
cosmetic

possibly you are right - the difference then can be found only in prices!!

[AzNMpower32]

The Sport Activity package was cosmetic (no aero kit, summer tires, or suspension upgrade). The M sportpaket is performance oriented.

The sport suspension does not lower the ride height on the X-series, only stiffens the spring rates and such.

[Lylefk]

I have the sport suspension on my 06. It is noticeably stiffer than my 05 was without it. It looks SO much better though with the sports package. Silly, but worth it and I do enjoy the sportier feel.

[RickM5X3]

Originally Posted by Lylefk

I have the sport suspension on my 06. It is noticeably stiffer than my 05 was without it. It looks SO much better though with the sports package. Silly, but worth it and I do enjoy the sportier feel.

Not silly a bit. You got better seats, better steering wheel, shadowline trim, a great wheel package with summer tires, and as you mentioned, the better suspension bits. By 2006, BMW had revised the non-sport to be more compliant (softer), and sport package became a necessity, IMO.
Great choice and may you be rewarded upon resale.