Sport Package suspension vs. non Sport

[OlyS4]

Anyone driven (or owned) both an E70 X5 with the Sport Package and one without? I'm looking for feedback on suspension/ride/handling comparison between them because we're looking to replace our '02 X5 3.0 (no sport package) and we just drove our first E70 (non-sport).

It didn't handle as well as our E53 does and I really want to see if the Sport Package is a big improvement in the handling and feel on the E70. I'll be looking to drive a Sport Package next, what all does it include on the E70?

Any first hand feedback?

Thanks!

[jeremym]

I'd never buy a non-sport. Then again, I don't mind sacrificing ride quality if I gain in handling.

[ard]

Sport package does not change anything to do with suspension... at least in some of the X5s... which of the X5s are you considering?

Adaptive drive is great, but most blanch at the cost.

[OlyS4]

Originally Posted by ard

Sport package does not change anything to do with suspension... at least in some of the X5s... which of the X5s are you considering?

Adaptive drive is great, but most blanch at the cost.

I thought that the sport package included in part "sport" suspension, with different components or a set up that provided tighter handling? If the suspension components are the same, what does the sport package get you?

[BGM]

Originally Posted by OlyS4

I thought that the sport package included in part "sport" suspension, with different components or a set up that provided tighter handling? If the suspension components are the same, what does the sport package get you?

On pre-2010 models the Sport Package had the Adaptive drive in it--which is the stiffer set-up you are talking about. For the 2010+ models you had to order Adaptive Drive as a stand alone option as the Sport Package did not include that.

[ard]

Originally Posted by OlyS4

I thought that the sport package included in part "sport" suspension, with different components or a set up that provided tighter handling? If the suspension components are the same, what does the sport package get you?

On many BMW models the sport package DOES change the springs/shocks...but NOT on the E70 X5.

Originally Posted by BGM

On pre-2010 models the Sport Package had the Adaptive drive in it--which is the stiffer set-up you are talking about. For the 2010+ models you had to order Adaptive Drive as a stand alone option as the Sport Package did not include that.

I am not sure that Adaptive Drive is "stiffer"...it surely handles better, but in terms of spring rates and damping it may not be much different.

But you are correct that it was part of the Sport package (when the Sport package cost ~$5700 (!!) )...

Now the sport package is a 'visual' upgrade only..wheels, interior, steering wheel, window trim...if I recall.

I think BMW still sells them because people think 'it must do something for handling, why else would BMW call it a Sport Package?'



A

[OlyS4]

Originally Posted by BGM

On pre-2010 models the Sport Package had the Adaptive drive in it--which is the stiffer set-up you are talking about. For the 2010+ models you had to order Adaptive Drive as a stand alone option as the Sport Package did not include that.

Ahhh, I see. We currently have an E53 3.0 without the Sport Package and it handles better that the non Sport package E70 (2009 3.0) I test drove recently. I will drive an E70 with the Sport Package for comparison, but just wanted the inside scoop. Thanks!

[rh71]

Originally Posted by ard

On many BMW models the sport package DOES change the springs/shocks...but NOT on the E70 X5.


But you are correct that it was part of the Sport package (when the Sport package cost ~$5700 (!!) )...

My sport pkg when AD was included was $3600. Says the sticker I'm looking at... maybe you're thinking of the additional 20s as a separate option for $?

[ard]

Typo- 3700 not 5700. That was in 2009.

[andy727]

This stuff drove me crazy when I was ordering mine.

Right, Sport Package with Sport Suspension Delete is basically an appearance package: Wheels, anthracite headliner, shadowline exterior trim, steering wheel, and the option for multi-contour seats.

Adaptive Drive @ $3,500 includes EDC (Electronic Damping Control), uprated dampers, springs, and Active Roll Stabilization.

Adaptive Drive is really a good deal when you think about it, you get quite a bit of upgrade for that price. If you don't get it decide to upgrade the handling later on, you will be spending at least $3,500, if not much more, and you still wouldn't gain EDC or Active Roll Stabilization.

From the BMW Web site:

Active Roll Stabilization
Active Roll Stabilization is an active suspension control system designed to reduce body-roll, or lean, while cornering. This improves the vehicle"s suspension geometry (the degree of wheel angle relative to vertical).

Electronic Damping Control
Electronic Damping Control (EDC) automatically adjusts the shock absorber settings to meet changes in vehicle speed, load, or road and driving conditions. The driver selects either "Sport" or "Comfort" from the iDrive "Settings" menu. EDC then modifies the shock absorbers to any degree, from the softest to the firmest setting. The result is exceptional riding comfort and fluid, responsive handling at all times. For example, the "Sport" setting increases firmness under all conditions for a sportier driving feel. With the "Comfort" setting, when sensors detect smooth roads, the shock absorbers are kept "soft" for optimum riding comfort. When the vehicle is rounding a sharp corner or curve, the shock absorbers are automatically and instantly adjusted to a firmer level. And when the vehicle encounters irregular road surfaces, such as bumps or a "washboard" surface, the shocks are instantly adjusted to the optimum level of firmness. This controls ride motions, helping to keep ride comfort at an acceptable level while maintaining road contact.