How Much Difference Does Adaptive Drive Make?

[carlos50]

Hi all

How much difference in suspension comfort and handling does adaptive drive and self levelling rear suspension make?

My 2009 35d (UK car) doesnt have it and over here only the 50i and X6M can have it so its really rare but my car jerks from side to side in fast corners, probably due to normal springs with no levelling ability or stiffening like the Adaptive setting and the higher centre of gravity?

Does the AD overcome this or is it a symptom of a big car trying to handle like a sports car?

Will springs from Eibach, H&R or the likes help to reduce that definite side to side jerk and bounce over rough roads the car regularly does, i thought i read that the rebound of the stiffened springs actually makes it worse?

Thanks

Carl

[doug_999]

I think the only way to accurately comment on this would be to drive one with it and then one with it.
I will say that my X6 with AD does ride nice and handles really well for a 5,200lb vehicle. Still it is a tall one and it simply won't corner like a 3 series (or be as enjoyable in the corner ). Over here in the states they have made it a very expensive option ($4,300 USD) although that price includes active steering (which appears to now NOT be a stand alone option). I would get the package for the active steering alone. Alas I suspect with the package price being that high, you won't see many X6s with AD and/or Active Steering now (it is also a priority one option so it can't be ordered for dealer stock - must be a customer order).

So my 2 cents? If the price is not too crazy, GET IT!

[x6er]

Hi,
I had an X6 without Adaptive drive and now I have an X5 with one....trust me, its worth every cent. the car is way more smoother and the handling is way better.

[HapBei]

Had AD IN MY 2009 X6 when we got it--it was purchased as-is (met MOST of my criteria).. And this time around when I actually got to build my 2013 I neglected to add that option--wasn't conscious of what I was leaving out until I started paying attention to this thread --too late!! I definitely DO notice a difference in cornering and u-turns!

[England]

Comes standard on the X6 M50d in the Uk and is brilliant....wouldn't be without it.

[carlos50]

I really want it but my car was built without it and its very rare in the UK. Ive even enquired on an X6M to get it

[carlos50]

Will lowering with uprated springs reduce the body roll of my car without the AD option?

If so which are the best to get?