2011 X5 35i M Sport Package: Suspension

Carbon Black · #1 03-31-2011, 03:54 PM

I just purchased a 2011 X5 35i with M Sport Package (Canada). While I love the vehicle for the incredible drive (and the potential this engine has when Dinan releases its engine software), it wasn't until the drive home from the dealership after my wife and I took delivery that she informed me she found the ride too "choppy" and not as comfortable as other vehicles we had looked at (Mercedes ML 500, Acura MDX). I understand that the suspension in the M Sport package is different than what otherwise comes on this vehicle - an "upgrade" as the sales guy called it. Adaptive Drive is not available on the 35i model.

Can anyone better explain the suspension to me (i.e. is it dramatically different than cars not equipped with sport suspension and, if so, how?). It got a little confusing reading other posts on the subject - especially because it appears as though the packages are structured differently in the US vs. Canada. I am running 19" run-flats and consider myself fortunate I did not upgrade to the 20" wheels. I also equipped the vehicle with comfort seats but doubt this will make much of a difference vs. sport seats.

Further, would coil-overs be an option for softening the ride? I don't mean to sound patronizing but happy wife = happy life. Of all the vehicles we drove, this was by far the best for me (the driver) but now my passenger is having second thoughts. I want this to be a win-win situation. Suggestions?

Thanks.

darwin316 · #2 03-31-2011, 04:11 PM

Sorry man... just dont drive with the Adaptive suspension in "sport". But even in regular mode, the X5 still has a harsher ride than the MDX. It's designed that BMW still focuses on the handling aspect of the X5, while the other luxury SUVs focuses on the comfort/luxury.

I suggest swapping out the runflats for non-rfts. it should soften the ride a little bit.

MJim · #3 03-31-2011, 04:41 PM

May be worth enquiring from your dealer what the cost would be to install the standard suspension. Even the standard set up is firm, but may be more acceptable to your wife. I'm sure you could on sell the sport suspension to partially offset the cost.

kimg9582 · #4 03-31-2011, 04:45 PM

Does it have RFT? If so, that probably contributes to the choppy ride. BTW, I would also double check the tire pressure. Mine were way over inflated when I took delivery.

JCL · #5 03-31-2011, 04:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Carbon Black

ICan anyone better explain the suspension to me (i.e. is it dramatically different than cars not equipped with sport suspension and, if so, how?). It got a little confusing reading other posts on the subject - especially because it appears as though the packages are structured differently in the US vs. Canada. I am running 19" run-flats and consider myself fortunate I did not upgrade to the 20" wheels. I also equipped the vehicle with comfort seats but doubt this will make much of a difference vs. sport seats.

Realoem shows that the sport suspension has different rear shocks, rear dampers, rear stabilizer bar, front struts, and probably springs (noted as depending on options but can't confirm without VIN).

All of those could easily lead to a harsher ride.

First thing is to check tire pressures, and make sure somebody hasn't pumped them up. Set them to the recommended pressures for low vehicle load; see your door jamb for specifics.

As mentioned above, you could swap out the tires for go flats instead of run flats, but that is a little expensive right off the bat. I don't think it is reasonable to swap out the suspension parts, it would be very expensive.

Agree completely that it is worth your wife being happy as well. See how it goes with the above checks. If she gets used to the ride, great. If not, let her pick the next car.

Good luck.

Fraser · #6 03-31-2011, 06:03 PM

Definitely check the tyre pressures. Once the suspension settles in the ride will soften up a little so give it some time.

Retro-fitting the standard (non-Sport) suspension components would be cost-prohibitive, IMO.

One option would be to replace the 19s with 18s. They are available as OEM. You may be able to do a no-cost swap or trade with someone. This won't make a huge difference but it will help.

Richard in NC · #7 03-31-2011, 08:13 PM

I feel (literally) that my 50i with M Sport and 19s has a good ride. I even like a bit more tire pressure than the door sticker's 32 psi recommendation. If they set the tire pressure much higher than recommended, it certainly could feel overly firm.

Xtony · #8 03-31-2011, 08:39 PM

You could try non-run flat tires or change to smaller diameter wheels.

xoutpostking · #9 03-31-2011, 09:01 PM

The M Pac for the 35i is purely cosmetic, different bumper etc, the suspension is the same........ If I am not mistaken.

rick chi-town · #10 03-31-2011, 09:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by xoutpostking

The M Pac for the 35i is purely cosmetic, different bumper etc, the suspension is the same........ If I am not mistaken.

I have had enough sport package v. non sport BMW's and am 99.9% positive their sport package is more than cosmetic. It's a shame you live in Canada as I have a non sport 3.0si that I just put 21in style 215's on. I would gladly pay to park both X's side by side and pay for the swap. IMO, all I am missing is the stiffer suspension. Good luck keeping th mrs happy... It's a full time job for me.