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[RobertF]

Again, like with the previous (e46) models, the xi suspension is actual higher up than even the non-sport, and adding the sport package changes nothing suspension wise...

On top of that, at least for the previous (e46) models, very few aftermarket suspension components ever became available. Likely that'll be the case for the e90 ix models.

Now, the question is, why not, when their direct competitor Audi does give you a real sport suspension on their all wheel drive models? Beyond that, there are also lots of further suspension upgrade options for the Audi Quattros...

Is it because BMW figures, and quite possibly rightly so, that most all xi customers (save enthusiasts like us) really want more clearance? And do the aftermarket vendors not bother offering many options for the same reason (small number of folks that would upgrade)?

All I know is that I, living in the Northeast, if it came with a sport suspension, would very much consider a 330xi, particularily since one can order it with the very nice style 162 wheels. That would be great for Spring, Summer, and Fall, and in the winter one could just swap wheels/snow tires. Thats what I do now with my Audi...

I mean is there some technical challenge (i.e. clearance, etc.) that precludes a factory suspension and aftermarket lowering...? (Really even if aftermark lowering is possible, at least in my mind it's a shame to have to buy and install a suspension kit on a brand new car anyway, particularliy since again, at least to me the sport setup on the 330i is acceptable)

Thanks in advance for any input from those more knowledgeable than I (OK, that's most everyone...;o) on this matter.

[E90Fleet]

There may be a clearance issue on the front driveshafts.

Also the main target for xi's isnt "sport" drivers since the 2wd version is much better for that.

[Guano]

I had this response from H&R re. XI lowering


Do you have any lowering options yet for the XI AWD version of the 2006 BMW 330 ?



We are going to have a sport spring and a coil over available for this vehicle. I expect to have more info on when, after the SEMA show in November.


Sincerely,

Josh Scott
H&R Special Springs, LP
3815 Bakerview Spur #7
Bellingham, Wa 98226
(888)827-8881
www.hrsprings.com

[RobertF]

...and a better overall platform handling wise, but for those of us who can't afford multiple vehicles a reasonable compromise would be nice...

[RobertF]

Thanks Guano, thats good to know!

[carl_d]

Better wheel clearance to fit now chains?

[E90Fleet]

Originally Posted by carl_d

Better wheel clearance to fit now chains?

"Normal" E90 with 225 tires and 16" or 17" wheels can fit BMW snowchains

[benoitch]

Basically, the sport suspension cannot fit the front because of the diff. I know, it always bugged me in my previous 330xi (e46). I decided to go with the 330i (e90) this time. I wanted sport suspension and I don't regret it at all. It is indeed technical reasons that preclude the sport suspension in the xi. They have less clearance.

Like you said, Audi does offer it, so I guess BMW could try to compensate their design to allow this even in the xi. I guess they don't sell enough of these yet to justify the additional effort. Anyway, they are targetting the sport enthousiast. No ?

[Guano]

I also spoke with Philippe at Dinan.

He said they definitely would eventually come out with an XI suspension package, but that the ETA is 6-12 months; working on software ECU options was the first priority.

[RobertF]

Again, thanks all. I suspected I was not the only one who is interested in a true sport tuned suspension for the 330xi, be it from the factory of aftermarket. I guess we'll all just have to wait a bit to see what becomes available from aftermarket tuners and how it really works out.

Regards,

RobertF.

[mapezzul]

the BMW system uses a chain drive and I bet if you change the angle on the front end you have some clearance issues where the actual drive is... Audi's system is bred for sport and uses shafts etc. The x-drive is an after thought, for the snow belt other snowy climates.

[shuzmaker]

No tuned suspension, yet they offer the 162's as an option for 600USD. Go figure.

[nocturnal]

I just saw on a show on Tv today that the BMW 5-series XI is higher up on clearance aswell, and the reason is for the drive shaft, as it has more moving parts to transfer power to all 4's.

Maybe i got the technical talk wrong, but the main reason is as stated above (based on the show)

[lhoboy8]

So no manufacturer will even consider making a cupkit or suspension kit that isn't as expensive as coil overs for the XI?

[ALPINE6SPD]

Originally Posted by benoitch

Basically, the sport suspension cannot fit the front because of the diff. I know, it always bugged me in my previous 330xi (e46). I decided to go with the 330i (e90) this time. I wanted sport suspension and I don't regret it at all. It is indeed technical reasons that preclude the sport suspension in the xi. They have less clearance.

Like you said, Audi does offer it, so I guess BMW could try to compensate their design to allow this even in the xi. I guess they don't sell enough of these yet to justify the additional effort. Anyway, they are targetting the sport enthousiast. No ?

Too bad the Audi sport supension is just like the Standard BMW suspension. I dont think BMW saw a market for it so why waste the money on trying to engineer it.