Buy X5 but VERY confused about 2013 SAV and Premium models

[S65B40]

Hi, New here, but not to bmw.

I have never in my whole life been so confused about what REALLY is the difference between the Premium X5 and the SAV besides price and wheels.

All i know so far is the SAV is $2500 more, and comes standard with 20in wheels. IS that it?

Im sorry if this is a repost but ive done several searches on this topic and while several threads about it exist on this and several other forums, no one ever seems to have a definite answer. Some say the suspension on SAV is different, some say its the same as X5 premium.

I've also had CAs tell me that there is no difference in suspension between the 2 models and the $2500 is merely for cosmetic wheels and a headliner.

Some have said you only get sport suspension IF you order the M-sport package. very confusing now.

In addition, when i build out the SAV on the bmwusa site, it has "SPORT SUSPENSION" checkmarked already. So, does that mean, the SAV Does indeed have a different suspension?

when i compare the vehicles side by side on their comparison page, there is no difference at all in suspension. So this is entirely confusing.

Please help me clarify once and for all.

1. If there is a sport suspension, what is it specifically?
2. Does the SAV stand taller than the Premium because of 20in wheels?

BMW site says the height for both cars is 69.9, exactly the same.

thanks so much

[xoutpostking]

Your CA is right.

The difference is mostly cosmetic, the rims, the extended wheel arches, the blacked out trim on the windows, different steering wheel, and dark headliner, making it look more sporty. Suspension is the same, ride hight is the same, and handling is a bit sharper I suppose for the sport since the tires are more low profile and softer compound.

Not listed on their site currently however (maybe removed for new models?), but the one I have has a higher max speed limit than the premium & base...... not that anyone would get to experience the difference.

Completely worth the 2500 if you ask me. BMWs are sporty by nature, so why not complete the package?

[younghno50]

Originally Posted by xoutpostking

Your CA is right.

The difference is mostly cosmetic, the rims, the extended wheel arches, the blacked out trim on the windows, different steering wheel, and dark headliner, making it look more sporty. Suspension is the same, ride hight is the same, and handling is a bit sharper I suppose for the sport since the tires are more low profile and softer compound.

Not listed on their site currently however (maybe removed for new models?), but the one I have has a higher max speed limit than the premium & base...... not that anyone would get to experience the difference.

Completely worth the 2500 if you ask me. BMWs are sporty by nature, so why not complete the package?

What he said plus in the SAV, you get the Sport Seats instead of standard leather seats i believe.. Cosmetically different in many ways, mainly the 20" wheels that are standard, the gloss black window liners outside, rear roof spoiler to name a few. The Premium did have some different "standard" options but it's definitely worth the extra $ for the SAV line. I live in Northern VA where BMW's are as common as Hyndai's here but RARELY do I seee the x5 with the 20" wheels and only 1 with the M sport package that comes with different 20"'s.

[rh71]

keep in mind... purposely ordering the sports activity trim gets you the nicer 20s but they are summer-only, so you'd have to switch out twice a year depending on your climate. Some may not want to deal with that, especially after paying more for the privilege.

[chiefneil]

Be careful with the 20" wheels if you live up north where the roads are bad and potholes abound. I hear it's very easy to bend the big BMW rims these days.