Sport mode
 

Any truth in this? I was told by an INDI that when you are driving HWY and put it into sport mode, it drops the X5 by 1.5".

Is it possible to do this if that is not true? I can see what a benefit it would be to have this occur, I have not sensed that, if true..... :dunno:

iv never heard of that, not sure if it can be done without being very expensive but i wouldn't know really for sure

probably true with a 4.6 or 4.8 with adjustible ride height

I have a 4.4i with Adjustable Ride Height and I occasionally put in sport. Don't notice any drop in ride height.

From what I believe that if you have adjustable ride height and you put it in the lowest setting then drive to about 30 something mph the ride height returns back to normal setting.

I've got an '02 3.0i. I do not have the ride height adjustable suspension system. I use SM all the time and nothing happens to the height when I shift in and out of mode. Perhaps a jealous INDI wishing he had an X5? LOL

I highly doubt it will drop making it more dangerous since the pressure drops in the airbags creating more bounce. the x will raise once you go over 30 and thats about it

They just got their facts all mixed up... sport mode affects shift points and takes away the overdrive gear. (good for towing actually) If the X5 has 4 wheel air the lowest setting is a 1.5" drop, but that is "entry mode" and doesn't stay dropped when you are driving. There is an aftermarket module available however that lets it stay dropped when driving. (a couple people on here have it I think)

Thanks all.

Weasel, would have it at the lower position increase the efficiency and MPG as there would not be as much traveling below the X?

The guys sparked a thought.... He works on all kinds of older BMW's, he pretty knowledgeable, he may have worked on an X that had what you described.

Anyway thanks. :thumbup:

While it may give slightly better mileage aerodynamically (which we don't know unless someone tests that) it affects the alignment angles of the tires, and your alignment is set for normal position... so it likely has more tire scrub/rolling resistance and tire wear unless you have your alignment set to that height...

So if you get the aftermarket module and use the lower setting for daily driving and have it aligned at that setting and use the middle and higher settings for ground clearance at times etc. it should be ok.

Or just get a really fat girlfriend and that should drop the suspension at least 1.5" if not more. Probably an ideal choice since you won't have to screw with any wiring.