First week impressions.......

[goldyf355]

Hello all,

Had the X5 for just under a week, and have a few driving impressions to share.....

THE PROS:

First off, I have the 4.8 "Canadian version" sports pkg, which is distinct from the U.S. sport pkg (since it doesnt include the adaptive drive...only the 19s with the bars and firmer springs, I believe...) After test driving with the adaptive drive, I didn't feel I needed it.....still don't.
All I can say is if someone is getting a sportier drive with the adaptive w/sport mode engaged, I tip my hat to them....I can't imagine a better sports feel for a truck this size...just incredible! I'm not a fan of cushy rides, so i don't miss the plush setting...but WOW, does this thing handle...for a truck it's unbelieveable!
It's taking me some time to get used to the throttle input/uptake and the brake feel...I find both to be much like an off/on switch....much different from my former ML500. The more I drive it, the better I am able to modulate both to get the accelleration or stopping force Im looking for...but it still takes me thinking about it. Im sure this will improve over time, as I get used to the trucks specific inputs, and it learns my prefered throttle inputs, and the brakes wear a little and become less "grabby".
The techno toys are great, I really like the professional sound,voice control, heads up, and the comfort access...the sunroof is a real treat as well. My I-pod 6FL option suffers from the same "drops to FM" problem reported here by many, but Im sure that will be fixed soon with a softare update...from what Ive read, it's already starting to filter through to dealers in the U.S...my service guy tells me Sept for me here...we'll see.

The CONS:

Only a few little issues, but none that have affected my enjoyment, just little irritants.....

First, right after pick-up, the car showed a "washer fluid low" sign every so often...while it annoyed me, I figured someone just forgot to top it off...so I did so. however, it still shows the light, after I filled it to the top...LOL, computers!
Another thing with computers, once I entered the car and could not get the car to start using the comfort access w/start button, tried a few times, but just got the electronics on and off. Got out of the car, locked it, walked away, came back, unlocked and it started fine. Weird, and it only happened once, but it gave me quite a scare...hope it doesnt happen again, and certainly not outside my driveway!

Great truck, I now see what all the fuss was about.

I will update with more as things progress, and get pics up soon once it is cleaned!