How capable in snow?

[motordavid]

Originally Posted by WVMTNBIKER

So this is my first X5, a manual shift 2003 3.0i model. Just how good IS the X5 in snow conditions? I live in WV and snow is common in winter. I've owned lots of Subarus and Volvos but never an X5.

What should I expect from my X5 in snow? I mean, some days we get 1-3 inches, others a whole lot more. I don't expect miracles but is in fact a capable vehicle in foul weather. I just put all new Yoko Avid Envigor tires on her and I realize they are (sic) dedicated snows, but then I am used to driving in the white stuff.

Just curious as to what to expect.

I suspect you meant the Yokos are not dedicated snows...the snow tire vs "all season" debate has come up on the JukeBox the 9 years I've been reading X boards. And, there are proponents of both with the accompanying anecdotal arguments.

Back at the the manual trans ranch, I found 2nd gear starts to be sometimes helpful in snow/slippery situs, and sometimes 1st or 2nd, with the DSC off.

It really varies by surface situ, incline/descents, etc. I'm guessing you have some steep slopes in W VA, as we have here in the mtns of western NC; I found dedicated snows to be the key, but you may have less acute conditions and get away with non-snow tires. Remember your '03 is not X Drive, but is very capable. Go out and learn how to make it work, esp. in low speed, accel/decel situs.
GL, mD