One Week, 1k - Observations

[Biff]

I picked up the diesel on March 3rd, 5 - 6 weeks after ordering (in line with the SA's original estimate). It has been far better than I had imagined it would be. I have about 1,000 km on it now. I'd like to share my findings but I also have a few questions.

Exceeded Expectations:
General: The feel of the X5 is much better than I remembered or imagined. It feels very high quality, very solid, and very well designed. Handling is superb. At 140 kph on highway, it is calm and stable; composed at all speeds and road surfaces. It feels stylish but unpretentious.
Comfort Seats: I am totally blown away with how comfortable these are and how infinitely adjustable. And the heat comes on quick and strong.
Heated Steering Wheel: How can any new vehicle not have this? Spectacular.
Diesel: I suppose the best way to describe it is that it is not noticeable. Many friends and colleagues have looked at the X5. All have said: What? It's a diesel? It's quiet and a non-factor from a driving perspective.
Nav / Comm: Perhaps too early for me to say that Nav has exceeded my expectations. But so far and in general, the iDrive and performance of the DVD, sat radio, etc. is fantastic. Once I got into the groove of how to operate it, I can now bring up what I want relatively nimbly. Phone is clear both ways. I've sent a Google map from my home computer to the nav - that is very cool. Sound? I'm very happy with it; also quite adjustable using the EQ.
Glass: Huge windshield, side windows and panoramic moon roof. Very easy to see out of. The wipers are huge and clear most of the gigantic windshield.
Headlights: Great illumination by low and high beams. The assistance by the one fog light while turning - very cool.
Cameras: The side cameras on the front work great. I am not entirely certain just yet how applicable they are in daily driving but they should prove to be very useful (e.g. peaking around a snow bank at an intersection). Back up cameras - super.
Cold Temp Starting: I've started this thing at -25 degrees Celcius many times without plugging in. No hiccup, burp or hesitation of any kind. Outside during day at the office. Inside heated garage at night.

Met Expectations:
Mileage: Average 10.1 L/100km on the computer right now. I would have been happier to be in the single digits but with mixed driving and still breaking-in, it's alright. I hope to be averaging 9.5 or so.

The Jury is Still Out On:
Climate Control: It works fine. I have no real issues. Heat comes relatively quick. Once in awhile, a stream of cool air (like a draft) can be felt.
Run Flats: They seem fine and better than I thought. If they remain how they are in terms of traction, ride, and noise I would move them to met or even exceeded expectations, depending.
Homelink: I've easily programmed two of my garage doors. However, I have an aluminum gate at the end of my long driveway. I cannot (I have tried everything I can possibly do) program my gate remote to the Homelink. It is the one with dip switches. I have no idea where to go next. I contacted the gate opener manufacturer, following the steps without luck.
Speed Perception: 120 kph, or higher, feels like 100 kph. I suppose that's a great thing, if I can keep from getting a ticket.

Questions:
a. Is there a way for the magnitude of the volume (for stereo or phone) to be shown on the display? It's kind of nice to see what level you are at sometimes.
b. Any suggestions on programming Homelink? I have read many posts and tried many things. I have no doubt that the signal is recorded in Homelink. However, when I press the button, gate does not open. When I press the gate remote, it works fine. I would hate to have to carry a remote on an expensive vehicle with Homelink but I may have to.

I think that's it for now. For sure there will be some other things that spring to mind once I post. And I will be posting pictures. It is very dirty but, what the heck, I'm going to take some anyway and post them.

Cheers.