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      11-12-2012, 07:44 PM   #1
aztec31
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Can't make up my mind between x3 35i and 335i sedan

I went back to the dealer today for the second time and I can't make up my mind between the X3 35i with m-sport carbon black and a 335i sedan. I had a 335i about a 1 year ago and it was a blast to drive. Anyone else that went to a x3 from a 3 series?
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      11-12-2012, 07:49 PM   #2
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I went from a 330i to the X3 35i. I loved that 330i. Was like a rocket sled lashed to rails (I know there are faster cars, but this was a good one). I got the X3 did it out of compromise at the time. Needed something for the dogs and bad weather and no longer had my Toyota 4Runner for that. I was giddy in my surprise at how fun the X3 is. You had the 335i, so the turbos weren't new to you, so that might take away a bit. The X3, to me, drives close enough to the sedan that my "zippy-tooth" is satisfied and the additional benefits of the X3 are really appealing to me. Now, when I get a 335i as a loaner I enjoy having my backside on the road and feeling like I'm attached to a rocket sled, but after a day or two I'm really very glad to get back to my X3 with enough of the zippy combined with all the creatures comforts, x-drive, visibility, etc. that I also find I really like. To do again, I'd go with the X3 even though a big part of my heart will always dig those sedans . . . perhaps one day I'll have both!!
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      11-12-2012, 07:51 PM   #3
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If you don't need the space and clearance go with the 335i assuming you're talking about the F30
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      11-12-2012, 08:03 PM   #4
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Yes, the F30 335i. The test drive on the x3 35i felt dull on the acceleration even in sport mode compared to the 335i, even the braking felt different. I know they are different cars and can't be compared, but I like the look of the x3 in m-sport CB. This would be more of a weekend or longer trip car and not an everyday commuter.
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      11-12-2012, 08:16 PM   #5
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Ah, the brakes. That is a different area. I believe the X3 takes longer to stop, but it feels even longer when coming from the sedan. After I got the feel, to me they seem very comparable for the stopping situations I encounter but more press is required. I didn't get the dull acceleration bit exactly. It doesn't have the same "hanging off the back of a rocket sled" feeling, but that's based mostly on seating position and sensation. Once I got past that part and got a feel for the pedal (which is definitely different IMHO) I realized this X3 gets up and goes. Haven't played second fiddled to anyone on the commute who's cared to go a little -- mind you, there were a couple dang fast cars that just didn't want to drive fast, but I wasn't trailing behind any 3 series sedans begging for quarter, either. The X3 is way, way more fun on backroads than I expected and it's ability to handle rougher terrain better gives it a bump in my book. For instance, I'd take this over the sedan any day for a back road drive over the Sonoma hills into Napa -- but that's what works for me.
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      11-12-2012, 08:47 PM   #6
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Thanks for your input. I just realized the 335i is slightly less expensive.

What is the dynamic handling package in the x3? Does it really improve handling in cornering?
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      11-12-2012, 08:59 PM   #7
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I had a stripped 2007 335i and now have a loaded 2011 Xdrive35i. It's no contest if you don't require an SUV. I would take the 335i anytime over the xdrive35i. For an SUV, the 35i is awesome. I wouldn't want another SUV. It ain't no 335i though.
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      11-13-2012, 02:28 AM   #8
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I had a 330d coupe and went to an F25, I sometime miss the ability to go quick and stop quicker but all up that's it the x3 is soo much easier for me to live with, wish I had made the change sooner.
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      11-13-2012, 04:39 AM   #9
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335i is less expensive now? Was the other way around when I bought, which surprised me. Check with others on the current DHP as it changed. When I bought mine that added the variable steering, adjustment between normal-sport-sport+, and the dynamic damping control that actively modifies the damping rate of the suspension to improve ride and stability. I really enjoy the feature. Sportier set-up for me, smoother with guests. I believe the dynamic damping control adds substantially to the rough road comfort and control (though I've not driven an X3 without it). On gravel, washboard roads, and the like this car cruises along more comfortably and in control than anything I've experienced (and there a lot of cars I haven't, of course).
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      11-13-2012, 09:09 AM   #10
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If it were me I'd forget about the performance differences, you'll get used to whatever you drive. Think more about whether you want a high or low driving position and a great feeling of space or snug fit.

I came to the X3 after two 330is and a 335i. The 3s were great but I struggle now to adapt to how low they are (they are lower than most cars), they also feel cramped.

Just go with your heart.
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      11-13-2012, 10:27 AM   #11
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The the automatic transmission the 335i is listed with a 0-60 of 5.1 seconds compared to 5.5 seconds for the X3 35i so really not a lot of difference in straight acceleration, but the 335i will handle better and be more fun to drive. Really depends on your needs. I have 5 months of snowing winter and a trailer I need to tow so the X3 was the perfect choice. If I lived somewhere warmer I probably would probably go with the 335i, but I have been really happy with the X3.
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      11-13-2012, 10:52 AM   #12
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The big difference is weight and centre of gravity. If you want a compact quick car, go for the 335i, if you need space and all weather ability go for the X3.

The X3 works for me for the roads in the north of UK with poor surfaces, winter snow and lots of police to sloe you down!!!
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      11-13-2012, 01:05 PM   #13
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I assume both is not an option?

I went from 2011 335 sedan to the 35i X3. I like the visibility, space and overall function of the X3. The 335 was a blast to drive, but putting people and stuff in it was always a challenge. With the X3, people and stuff pop right in and away we go. I still have the N55 engine and sport mode when I want to get frisky. I certainly don't regret the X3 purchase over the 335 at all.

If you go with the X3, get the dynamic handling package, get the dynamic handling package, get the dynamic handling package! It makes the ride so much better in each setting. For $1400, it is a real bargain. BMW has this technology down and I'm not sure I would consider another car if it didn't have this capability.
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      11-13-2012, 06:06 PM   #14
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Thank you for all your input. I can't have both :-( but i'm starting to lean towards the x3. I really like the carbon black on black with alum trim.

Does the dynamic handling allow for better handling in sport mode? I would get it if it allowed for better cornering and turning.
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      11-13-2012, 09:38 PM   #15
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Quote:
Originally Posted by aztec31 View Post
Thank you for all your input. I can't have both :-( but i'm starting to lean towards the x3. I really like the carbon black on black with alum trim.

Does the dynamic handling allow for better handling in sport mode? I would get it if it allowed for better cornering and turning.
people who has it swear by it, and also look at the chestnut interior in person
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      11-14-2012, 05:28 AM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by aztec31 View Post
Thank you for all your input. I can't have both :-( but i'm starting to lean towards the x3. I really like the carbon black on black with alum trim.

Does the dynamic handling allow for better handling in sport mode? I would get it if it allowed for better cornering and turning.
It helps. The dynamic damper control can increase the stiffness of the outside of the car and control the body roll a bit more. You'll notice more roll still, but in my experience it's more perception than real impact. I can got through corners as fast as before, I just have to be prepared for the sensation of greater movement at a higher seating position. I'm sure if both cars were pushed to the edge, the 335i could do the corner faster before losing it somehow, but most of us never drive to that extreme. Pulling it back a bit from the edge, it performs very similar, but moves more. More about learning that the different sensation of roll is more normal and not the same "bad" warning it would be down low in the sedan. Dunno if that helps, but it's the way it seems to me . . .
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