Adaptive Drive - Is it worth it?

PUZZ · #1 12-22-2010, 10:41 PM

Curious what folks think about the $3500 price tag for the adaptive drive suspension. I have it on my car because in '08 is was included in the sport package. I like the way my car drives, but frankly, don't know the difference because I haven't driven an x5 without it.

Thoughts?

wallyx5 · #2 12-22-2010, 11:14 PM

I have heard from those who have adaptive drive is that it's a must. Basically improves the handling of the 5000lb beast. I will be getting it on my next X.

DeanLinAZ · #3 12-23-2010, 12:43 AM

Adaptive Drive--Is it worth it?

Answer: Yes.
Drive a sample of each back to back and you will agree, I'm sure.

rh71 · #4 12-23-2010, 01:02 AM

depends on how much you want to spend overall... because that could be like 2-3 other options instead.

bigx5er · #5 12-23-2010, 01:07 AM

Nice? Yes. Must have for me at the price? No. For my typical driving the standard X5 is great. If money wasn't an object -- sure.

What really scares me as more gizmos are added is the repair costs after 50K. I wish I trusted BMW more.

nynd · #6 12-23-2010, 01:25 AM

Yes.

deutsch100 · #7 12-23-2010, 02:43 AM

I had Adaptive Drive on my 2008 4.8i. I do not have it on my 2011 35d. I know I will get blasted, but I do not feel any difference (and I live in a very, very hilly and mountainous area with lots of turns and dips).

Alan Smithee · #8 12-23-2010, 06:13 AM

A couple of weeks ago, I took delivery of an X5d with sport package and 20s, but without Adaptive Drive. I read all of the Adaptive Drive 'must have' posts here before I ordered, but I resisted; I do not like artificial feedback from 'active' suspensions. Besides, if the vehicle ended up being a wallowing beast, I have other weapons for canyon carving. Of course a back-to-back comparison on some twisty roads would have made it easy to decide for myself, however dealer inventory around here has been slim.

I must say that I am very pleasantly surprised by the standard X5 suspension. It is proper BMW; nicely starched, but not stiff, with surprisingly little body roll. This thing really moves through the turns if you push it. While Adaptive Drive may reduce body roll further while smoothing out the ride, I can't see how it would feel natural to have the vehicle respond in that way.

For a little background, this is my 7th BMW, the last two being M3s, which saw plenty of track time. I took a break from BMW the last 9 years (during Bangle's tenure), and have used Porsches on the track instead. So I do appreciate good handling...but I see no need for Adaptive Drive. (And as was mentioned by somebody else, the fewer electronics to go wrong in a BMW, the better.)

deutsch100 · #9 12-23-2010, 11:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alan Smithee

A couple of weeks ago, I took delivery of an X5d with sport package and 20s, but without Adaptive Drive. I read all of the Adaptive Drive 'must have' posts here before I ordered, but I resisted; I do not like artificial feedback from 'active' suspensions. Besides, if the vehicle ended up being a wallowing beast, I have other weapons for canyon carving. Of course a back-to-back comparison on some twisty roads would have made it easy to decide for myself, however dealer inventory around here has been slim.

I must say that I am very pleasantly surprised by the standard X5 suspension. It is proper BMW; nicely starched, but not stiff, with surprisingly little body roll. This thing really moves through the turns if you push it. While Adaptive Drive may reduce body roll further while smoothing out the ride, I can't see how it would feel natural to have the vehicle respond in that way.

For a little background, this is my 7th BMW, the last two being M3s, which saw plenty of track time. I took a break from BMW the last 9 years (during Bangle's tenure), and have used Porsches on the track instead. So I do appreciate good handling...but I see no need for Adaptive Drive. (And as was mentioned by somebody else, the fewer electronics to go wrong in a BMW, the better.)

Alan, where in LA did you get you 35d? Colour combo? Options? How are you liking your Diesel?

This is my 5th X5, and besides from my old 4.8is...my favourite. The mpg is awesome, and the 35d pulls like a freight train.

Alan Smithee · #10 12-23-2010, 02:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by deutsch100

Alan, where in LA did you get you 35d? Colour combo? Options? How are you liking your Diesel?

It is Platinum Gray/Black Nevada/Dark Bamboo, with Sport Activity, Cold Weather, and Premium Sound packages, Navigation/BMW Assist, 20s, and spare tire...that's it. I got it from Santa Monica BMW (who were great).

Only 500 miles so far and trying to adhere to the break-in recommendations, but very happy with the driving dynamics and drivetrain so far. I also have a MB E320 CDI, so I am a diesel fan.

However, I am continuing to be annoyed by the controls that have plagued BMWs since I defected; the pointless start button, fixed position steering wheels stalks, ridiculous shifter, electronic e-brake, etc., and of course iDrive. It may be improved, but it sucks, IMO. BMW controls used to be ergonomically correct and intuitive, not different just for the sake of being different. Everything else about the interior is great; seats, steering wheel (although shift buttons really should be part of the 'sport' package), and premium audio. Oh, except for the lack of Homelink in a $63k vehicle. Very frustrating that it can only be had with the 'Premium' package, when it is standard equipment on cars that are less than half the price.