My X5 journey from MY1 to the last E70

[X5FX]

In 2007 I bought my first BMW. It was the first E70 model and was fully loaded with all the options available including Adaptive Drive, HUD, Tech, 3rd Row, RSE, etc, etc. I quickly fell in love, it was an amazing vehicle despite its many flaws. The one flaw that really bugged me the most was the lack of power off the start and the lag of the 3.0 engine. The car was clearly under powered, but despite this I really enjoyed 5 years of driving it. Once on the highway, she had plenty of power and I rarely was in a situation where I didnt have enough to pass...it was that first acceleration from a start that ruined it.

I swore the next X5 would be the 50i due to the lack of power...but last week, I finally traded her in and ended up with a 2013 35i. The difference is really amazing. This new engine and transmission is as smooth as silk, the dreaded hesitation is gone and I have more than ample power from a start. I am really shocked at the difference in the two vehicles.

Unfortunately the new X5 lacks Adaptive Drive. During my test drives I really didn't notice how badly I would miss it...but it really is a must have feature on the X5. The difference is significant. The new X5 has the M Sport option, so the suspension is much tighter than my first X5...it is a bumpy ride.

Next time it will be AD for sure. Ive only been driving for a few days, but the improvements are vast from 2007 to 2013.