All wheel drive system

[dsteinbronn]

I'm considering an X5 after the lease runs out on my 330xi. I was told at the dealers (right or wrong) that the all wheel drive system changed on the 2004 model. Before 2004 up to 50% of the power is distributed to the front axel or rear axel, depending on the conditions. With the 2004 model came the capability for each wheel to be independently powered, creating a theoretrical and perhaps practical advantage if 3 of your wheels were slipping. I have several questions about this.

1. how does the system work on my 2002 330xi?

2. do you think this is a significant improvement?

3. in purchasing an X5, would this factor be significant enough to push you towards a 2004 model and its higher price tag, or would you be comfortable with a 2002 or 2003 CPO X5?

Thanks for any info you can provide.

 

[Average Jae]

with the introduction of the x3, bmw came up w/ a new x-drive system, which lets the car decided how to distribute the power, any way it sees fit. 04 x5, w/ the mild face lift came w/ this standard. the original x-drive system found in your xi and the original x5 had the permanent torque split of 62(back)-38(front)

also if you are looking to spring for the 4.4i, you get 25? more horses? than the 03, and a six speed steptro, which does help w/ accel and fuel economy. also the mild face lift makes the previous years look dated. (the more i see it, the more i like it!)

if you are going to get the 3.0, i would think the x3 would be a better choice. x5 seems too heavy for a 3.0 i6 imo. (if perf in your SAV is a big thing that is.) i got a 3.0 x3 as a bmw loaner, and was pretty fun driving it around, no where near as fun as my 3, but still nice. and the panaromic roof is SWEET! 4.4 x5 is a brute tho, i was amazed at how car like and fast that sucker is. and is rock solid, even near triple digits on the highway felt like 60 in a near 5k lb truck! then i figure, it does have a roundel, why was i doubting?

 

[MrElussive]

2.) Yes, this is a significant improvement. BMW made their xDrive AWD system better, that's all.

3.) The upgrade in the AWD system would not push me for a 2004 model. What would push me towards the 2004 model is all the other upgrades it received...the whole X5 model received a "face lift" as they call it. 04 models have angel eyes, the 4.4i model's 4.4 liter V8 engine was pushed up to 315hp (up from 290hp) and is now paired up with a 6-speed automatic transmission (previously a 5-speed auto). The 3.0 remains the same with its 225hp motor and the 5-speed automatic (or 6-speed manual available).

Basically, if you have the means for a late-model X5, I would go that route. If you are looking to save money, it all depends on how important the "face lift" is to you. Some people love it, some people couldn't care less.