Just got a new 2011 X5 35d!!

[deutsch100]

Originally Posted by PUZZ

Question for Deutsch100:

How is the transmission in the 35d? I know it's not the 8 speed that comes with the other 2 models. Is it the same 6 speed that was in your 08 4.8 and if so, does it have the same shifting issues? You may not be picking up on them yet, as the car hasn't learned your driving style yet, but would love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks

If it is the same 6 speed that was in the 4.8i...then BMW has 100% totally fixed the issues. In the 35d, shifts are liquid smooth, the car always "knows" the right gear to be in, downshifts are clean and quiet. It's either a totally new 6 speed transmission, or possibly since the 35d (all diesels) do not rev very high, the transmission does not need to work as hard as it did in the old 4.8i model.

I am very, very sensitve to transmission "issues", and the 35d is so smooth. From day one, up the steep hill to my house, the 4.8i downshifted and reved the rpms so high before it upshifted...loud, rough and jerky. It has never done this once in the 35d. In fact, the 35d pulls itself up the hill around 1800/2000 rpms...quiet and strong. My 4.8i would be at 4000+ rpms going up the same hill!!

[chrgosselin]

Originally Posted by m-ro

Thanks for the repsonse. The issue im wrestling with is that im coming from an m3. Drove the 50i and it is very quick but trying to get into a more 'repsonsible vehicle' lol. The 35i became my next choice simply because i really did like the feel of the m sport package , handling wise. I guess the engine is where i felt let down.

That's exactly why I ordered a 50i. Not exactly the most "responsible" vehicle out there but certainly more fun to drive than the 35i. I say go for it if you can afford it!

[akim47]

deutsch... can you comment more on other troubles you had with your older model E70s?

[deutsch100]

Originally Posted by akim47

deutsch... can you comment more on other troubles you had with your older model E70s?

2007 3.0si was a NIGHTMARE, 2008 4.8i was somewhat better, but still very bad.

Constant battery issues
Horrible transmission
Electrical nightmares (being locked in the car, daily warning messages, iDrive freezing, presets erasing, time & date erasing)
Inadequate and erratic HVAC
Headlights working one day, not the next

The list just goes on and on. Besides from a 2006 Supercharged Range Rover, the 2007 3.0si was the worst car. I hated it. Problems began within a few days of ownership too. Seriously, I spent more time in a 325i and X3 loaner, than I did in the X5. Also, with the 4.8i...I spend about as many days in an X3 loaner, as I did in the '08 4.8i. While the X3 is a little small for my taste...it is VERY reliable, easy & fun to drive and a great little suv!

[Orientexpress]

deutsch100 your front reflector side view camera come with Technology Package? Or was it a particular build date they put them in. Seen a few photos of 2011 X5d's without them and yours was the first I have seen with them. Just wondering cause I have one on order very similar to your options but you don't mention Tech Package. When I ordered side view cameras were not an option for the diesel.

[deutsch100]

Originally Posted by Orientexpress

deutsch100 your front reflector side view camera come with Technology Package? Or was it a particular build date they put them in. Seen a few photos of 2011 X5d's without them and yours was the first I have seen with them. Just wondering cause I have one on order very similar to your options but you don't mention Tech Package. When I ordered side view cameras were not an option for the diesel.

My window sticker shows side view cameras as an option. Tech package included the rear view camera,