Adaptive drive vs. standard suspension vs. KW V3?

[NardoW12]

Originally Posted by blondboinsd

I had the sport package on both my 2004 and 2005 X5's and I found the ride on my 4.8i Sport Package/Adaptive Drive to be harsher then my 2004 or 2005's. Much of that has to do with the RFT tires I think but I'm actually leaning towards not getting AD when I order my 2013 later next year

My current X5 is actually a little harsher than the 'stock' E53 with Sports Package since I changed the tire from 255/55/18 to 255/45/18, and I can definitely see RFT or low profile tires making the ride noticeably harsher.

Ride comfort aside, how would you rate the handling of the 4.8i AD compared to your E53?

[blondboinsd]

Originally Posted by NardoW12

My current X5 is actually a little harsher than the 'stock' E53 with Sports Package since I changed the tire from 255/55/18 to 255/45/18, and I can definitely see RFT or low profile tires making the ride noticeably harsher.

Ride comfort aside, how would you rate the handling of the 4.8i AD compared to your E53?

Handling is different. It's a much larger feeling car so it doesn't feel as "sports car" as the E53 did (in my opinion) but it's so much better overall. The turning radius, braking etc. is far improved

[TriX5]

I have always thought the e53 sport suspension is a bit tough around town. My e70 has AD and around town I set it to Sport as the normal setting wallows the a bit in the rear. I have 3rd row seats.

However, I drove over a rough surface coming off I-495 with AD on sport and it felt positively uncomfortable compared to driving the same stretch on normal.

So, I guess AD sport or normal can make a big difference but indeed I am sure the notes above are correct. Drive each variant if you can and decide.

[NardoW12]

Originally Posted by TriX5

I have always thought the e53 sport suspension is a bit tough around town. My e70 has AD and around town I set it to Sport as the normal setting wallows the a bit in the rear. I have 3rd row seats.

However, I drove over a rough surface coming off I-495 with AD on sport and it felt positively uncomfortable compared to driving the same stretch on normal.

So, I guess AD sport or normal can make a big difference but indeed I am sure the notes above are correct. Drive each variant if you can and decide.

Sounds like the different modes of AD definitely impact the ride comfort. Do you feel like it help the handling of the car noticeably?

[NardoW12]

Originally Posted by blondboinsd

Handling is different. It's a much larger feeling car so it doesn't feel as "sports car" as the E53 did (in my opinion) but it's so much better overall. The turning radius, braking etc. is far improved

The turning radius for E53 is pretty stupid, but I find braking and handling just fine. Now I need to do a more serious test drive of the E70.