M Adaptive Suspension

[jparnes1]

Hey all you M Sport E89ers...what's your impression of M Adaptive Suspension? I'm considering getting the M Sport Package and I'm wondering how much stiffer this suspension is compared to base. I understand that this suspension adjusts the dampers as you drive to accommodate your driving needs. But in non-aggressive driving, would you say the suspension is noticeably stiffer?

[ManiacGT]

I drove a standard 23i M Sport before buying my 35i with adaptive suspension. I'd say the 35i with adaptive suspension is much softer in normal mode than standard suspension. However in sport mode its stiffer and is bone shaking in sport +. I much prefer the feel of the car in sport mode, better steering, throttle response and the suspension is just right. Not good over potholes tho!

[Vintage]

Both the Sport and Sport+ settings are noticeably stiffer than "Normal." We have a loaded 2010 35i (DCT, Nav, Sport w/wheel upgrade, Premium, Cold W, Premium Sound, etc.). We absolutely love the car; however, if I were ordering the car again I would probably go simplest route with minimal technology options - just MT, M Sport package for looks, heated seats, Premium Sound, and upgraded wheels. Then I would simply upgrade the suspension after market to firm things up (sport springs are cheap).

[cdeslandes]

I followed the "less is more" motto, and got the standard "dumb" suspension. Easier on my back and predictable since its behavior doesn't change between settings.
Same thinking for the transmission, it's do-it-yourself!

You can always affect the handling by (from mild to wild):

• Mounting good non-runflat tires;
• Fitting stiffer sway bars;
• Fitting new springs and shocks or coilovers.

But definitely start with the tires. My Michelin Pilot SuperSport improved grip and comfort.

[Vintage]

agreed - start with "regular" tires regardless of what suspension you opt for

[az34]

looks like that feature (windows down when we pull the door handle) is not well adapted for cold climate.

[az34]

Originally Posted by az34

looks like that feature (windows down when we pull the door handle) is not well adapted for cold climate.

sorry guys wrong thread.

[minsterman]

Just in the process of thinking through ordering an M Sport sdrive 20i.

Had one on test over the weekend and to be honest, suspension was a bit hard for normal commuting over some dodgy roads here in Yorkshire.

Will the adaptive M Sport suspension solve that?

Is "normal" comfortable, and will "Sport" revert go back to M Sport standard settings?

[teagueAMX]

They make the regular suspension stiffer, but the adaptive suspension is more flexible. See chart below:

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