2011 X5 35D vs 2012 ?????
 

Hello, new here. In the market to purchase an X5, sounds to me the big difference between the two are going be a 6 speed tran. going to 8 speed, how big of a differnece does this really make & would I even know the difference, I am far from an auto expert.

thanks.

How did you confirm that the 8 speed was going to be used in the 2012?

2011 vs 2012
 

oh I didn't confirm anything, just from everything I have been reading that is the one common thing most are including as a change....If what i wrote was misleading I should have been clearer.....but even as a general statement would I know the difference when driving between 6 or 8 speed?

More gears with shorter ratios are great for keeping high-revving motors in their powerbands. Diesels are low-revving motors, so they do not benefit.

The current 6-speed works perfectly with the 35d motor. The only reasons why BMW would change to the 8-speed (IF they change it) would be for economies of scale, and/or for higher highway fuel economy (if the top gears are taller/overdrive ratios).

2011 vs 2012
 

Thank you for the info, going to test drive it on Saturday

You will love it......I took one for a Ride last saturday and ordered one immediately. Far superior to my 2010 30i