Opinions on Upgrade to E70 / F15

[TiminIndy]

I have had a 2006 E53 for 6 years now and have been wanting to upgrade to a newer one for a while. I was thinking I would go to an E70, 2011-2013 N55 (6 cyl xDrive35i).



I was looking to spend $15-20K, but since I have waited so long, now some of the 2014-2015 F15 models are within my range. I really like the look of the front end on the F15 and I'm sure the bells and whistles are a little more modern, but I hadn't really looked at them much yet. I didn't know until now that they made a bunch of the 6 cylinder models with RWD. I think I want to stick with AWD, so that will narrow my options in the local used market. I see RWD & AWD still had the N55 motor - I assume this is still considered the most reliable engine offered (and lower cost of ownership)?


I started this in the E53 forum, since this is where I have always been. Does anyone have any advice on what to watch for with regard to the E70 or F15? I always get the Carfax and check for recalls. I know quite a few E70's had a front driveshaft recall and I would frown on any owned by someone who didn't bother to get that done yet.

[bradb]

My driving experience in the F15/F85 with the electric power steering is nothing like the analog steering in the E53 and E70. The newest generation is just a little better.

My .02c.

Brad

[TiminIndy]

I test drove a couple of E70's a while back and noticed the steering was much easier than on the E53 - especially in slow/tight spaces in parking lots. etc.. Is the F15 even better?

[amancuso]

Originally Posted by TiminIndy

I test drove a couple of E70's a while back and noticed the steering was much easier than on the E53 - especially in slow/tight spaces in parking lots. etc.. Is the F15 even better?

That's because your 3.0i doesn't have servotronic.

[TiminIndy]

I just hope they have improved the design on the door handle carriers!


Also, major pet peeve of my E53 is how the spoiler over the back window continues to drip water after a car wash. Dry everything off over and over, then it continues to leak a little more, over and over!

[bradb]

IMHO easier steering is not what I am looking for. I like road feel that the analog steering provides. More like the ultimate driving machine.

Yes the F15/F85 has much easier steering.

Brad

[TiminIndy]

I always think electronic over mechanical is just something else that can go wrong.

[absolutezero273c]

I can't speak to the newer 35i or the electric steering of the F15. But what I can tell you is my wife's 2009 X5 3.0 is a pleasure to drive. It is slightly larger inside than my E53 and I do find myself reaching for the iDrive controller in my E53 and E38 when attempting to change the nav scale. The E70 Steering does appear to be much more light and nimble compared to my daughter's 3.0 E53 but only slightly lighter than the steering on my 4.8 E53. Back seat is comfortable in the E70 and I do appreciate the air vents on the B pillars that face the rear seat. Only negative of the E70 I have found other than the fuel pump is the fact that the rear cup holders are in the arm rest. So you can't have 3 people in the back seat and use them.


Just my .02 cents.

[Russianblue]

Originally Posted by TiminIndy

I just hope they have improved the design on the door handle carriers!


Also, major pet peeve of my E53 is how the spoiler over the back window continues to drip water after a car wash. Dry everything off over and over, then it continues to leak a little more, over and over!

i'd feel remiss not adding how much I LOVE it when the freshly washed car has spots on the running board trim from dripping side mirrors!!

[KEI7]

Originally Posted by amancuso

That's because your 3.0i doesn't have servotronic.

What about E53 4.4i? Do they have servotronic?