Anything to make X5 base sportier?

[2013M3]

Hello,

Owner of a CPO 2013 X5 3.5i. It comes with decent options (executive seats, front cameras, cold weather package) but feels a little sluggish and handles not so well. I think it is still a great car, but to be a 'bmw', I though it would handle better (feels like a mom's mobile). Is that the general sense of most people who have the base X5? and why they upgrade to the X5 M?

Is there anything that can be done to the 3.5i to make it a little bit more fun ?

[socale39]

Suspension and wheels/tires will make a big difference. You could get some lowering springs or just go with stock sport springs and run a 19" or 20" staggered setup and that should just about do it.

[racermp]

Install mhd, Cobb or bms tune

[2013M3]

Originally Posted by racermp

Install mhd, Cobb or bms tune

Could you define those for me. Thanks.

[socale39]

Those are just engine tunes that will add better response and performance. Most have different stages depending on how much performance you want.

[Googone20]

You should definitely add H&R springs. These lower the ride height, and also tighten up the handling significantly. I would also order up some wide body flares and some wide 20-22" wheels and tires. Lower profile wheels and tires will also tighten up the ride and provide a more sporty feel. Tuning will help solve the issue of sluggishness or lack of power. These motors can make a lot of power with simple bolt-on's and tuning.

[Flying Ace]

Trade for a X5M

[mitch808]

Bilstein B8 struts with lowering springs would improve the suspension performance. Springs alone is a crutch, do it right the first time is always the best course of action. The B8 dampers offer better control for the stiffer spring, and will prevent a bouncy ride.

For a Tune, I think Cobb is not an option on 2013+. It was select 2011/2012 models. So look at the other companies listed.

Tires. Tires can make all the difference as well. different brands may have different sidewall construction differences, so stiffer or softer, making it feel more accurate in steering feel. Then you get into larger wheel sizes, which mean lower profile tires, which will further stiffen the sidewall, again making the steering feel more accurate.

There are downpipe options as well to remove catalytics, which can improve throttle response and free up HP/TQ. But you really need a tune to be able to take advantage of that, and of course if you have smog tests in your city, not recommended.

[Raymo2017]

I'm working on some of these upgrades now. Starting with wheels, fender flares next then I'm interested in the Bilstein struts and springs too!