x5 sports package and towing
 

I just had a question about the sports package. What exactly does it include? I believe larger wheels, self leveling suspension, and tighter suspension, but what else is included in the package?

Also, is it bad to tow a boat, 5000lbs, behind the sports package x5 or should I look for the regular one?

Looking at an 03 4.4i to be precise...

Thanks a lot
Jamie

Year? 3.0i, 4.4i, 4.6is, 4.8is?

This will help you figure out your options:
http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/x5/g...e53-years.html

Well i havent bought anything yet, just looking. I would like a 02-04 4.4i I think.

The exact make-up of the sport package differed between models (3.0 vs. 4.4) and years. So to accurately answer your question would take a bit of work. If you tell us what model and year you are interested in, then an answer would be easier to attain.

Ya I guess its a hard thing to answer exactly because they are all different. To be specific I think I will be looking at an 03 4.4i x5 with sports package. Does the sports package have different gearing that would cause a problem when towing?

Thanks a lot for any info!!! :)
Jamie

Sports package makes no difference (positive or negative) for towing. For a 5000 lb boat (assuming that is the loaded trailer weight, not just the boat weight) you are right at the limit of the 3.0 in 2003. Up to 2003 the 2003 was rated 5000 lbs max towing, then 6000 lbs from 2004 onwards. All 4.4s were rated 6000 lbs max towing capacity. Note that for both models, any trailer over 1600 lbs requires trailer brakes, either surge brakes or electric.

Even with a 6,000 lbs towing limit, pulling a 5,000 lbs boat out of the water is going to exceed your towing limit. I'd look for a quad cab pickup truck if you need a four door vehicle tow hauler.

Well, a 5000 lb boat (if that is the boat weight) requires a trailer that weighs about 1000 lbs. And as you pull it out of the water, it weighs less than its dry weight (as it is partially floating during the procedure).

Don't disagree that if you are pulling much more than 6000 lbs (especially at highway speeds) then a pickup is a good idea.

I agree with everything you've said but I think is important to consider that you will be pulling the trailer out of the water (against the water).