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!!