Adaptive Drive - Is it worth it?

[ukwildcat]

Originally Posted by deutsch100

Cordially disagree 100%. Since I have had an X5 with Adaptive Drive (4.8i) and now the 35d (no adaptive drive)...there is NO wallowing at all. NONE!

Trust me, my last Full Size Range Rover did not have Adaptive Drive/Active Body Control..it was an HSE, not Supercharged. Now, you can talk about wallowing. That thing was like taking a turn on a super soft Sealy Posturepedic.

Since my '08 4.8i had Adaptive Drive included in the Sports Package, I just assumed my '11 35d had it as well. It took me a week or so to find out my X does not have Adaptive Drive...and I only found out from reading posts on our Board. I am honestly in awe how amazing my 35d handles. It goes around turns and in dips and bumps like a 5er or 3er sedan!!

I'm sure BMW deleted Adaptive Drive from the Sports Package to save a lot of money, but I do not think most people can tell the difference with or without it. On a car or SUV that does not handle that well just due to the design, then Adaptive Drive would be awesome. Since the X5 handles basically like a 3/5 Series Sedan...then Adaptive Drive is not a necessary feature. For being a $3500 option now, I'm glad that money went to Comfort Access, Head Up Display, Premium Package, Technology Package, Premium Sound, etc.... Options that I can SEE, USE and FEEL everyday!!

I will doubly agree.. The 50i I test drove was equipped with it (and the sports package), then I drove the 35i without it. Yes, several big changes, but other than the butt-kick of the 50i, handling felt only SLIGHTLY different. It does feel stiffer and more "confident," but I would agree that it's not really a big difference. Coming from my "old lady" Lexus it was a HUGE difference.

Whereas the vehicle normally has no body roll WITHOUT adaptive drive, it only has a little in very sharp turns. Really, I'm very impressed with the "standard" suspension.

I'll second the notion I'm glad I spent all that cash on other options.

Maybe next time.