Hello All, I am a new forum member and a U.S. military officer stationed in Europe. The wife and I are in the process of purchasing a 2005 530i (possibly w/o the Sports Package...and will place our order this week). This will be the 4th BMW we have owned over the past 18-yrs - previously owned a 2000 528i with the Sports package.

For 2005 models, the active steering is offered as a separate $1250 option. I have test driven the 5 w/ and w/o active steering and I understand it's technical features. I enjoyed the ease of it, but also felt somewhat disconnected from the road (i.e., loose feel). I understand that I will probably get used to it after time (i.e., based on reading other owners comments). Also, the 5-without the Sports package also provided a pleasant "traditional" BMW 5-series drive. Unfortunately, I can't order the Dynamic Drive (i.e. ARS) as a separate option at this time w/o the Sports Package.

However, with that said, my biggest concern are the limited critical reviews I have read regarding problems with it at high speeds, in cross-winds, and on unfinished highway roads (+ bridge joints, etc.). The bottom line is that for all the convenience and ease in the world, the last thing I want to give up is driving pleasure + safety (i.e., the feel of being connected with the road and/or experiencing cognitive dissonance at 90 mph while crossing an old bridge in December with winds gusting over 15-20mph). I need honest and unbiased feedback (regarding handling, steering, cornering, etc.) from owners that both have the sports package and just as important, don't have it. Thanks.

"Serving Proudly".

 

Welcome aboard !

I have no problems at all when driving in wind.
The only problem I once had was rain...
It proed down and with my 275 rear tires the car was not very comfortable to drive... But others had problems too, and they had smaller wheels...

 

This is my fourth BMW (3rd 5-series) and all I can say is I don't feel disconnected at all with AS.

Sure, it's different. Maybe initially that might feel like you're disconnected but all I can say is after over 6000 miles, it's other cars that feel disconnected now!

 

I find the handling is FANTASTIC !
AS rulez!

 

I opted not to have AS, for many of the same reasons as you.

I made the correct choice for myself , it's not like the BMW rack-n-pinion steering is anything to sneeze at, didn't like the run flats either as part of the SP.

DR.Z

 

Matter of fact, I have never felt more connected and in charge of a vehicle, 'specially in traffic.

 

The 5 with the Sport

Great Handling and the Active Steering is responsive and functional .....

530 w/o sport

That is what I got and why

Road Noise.....18's will always have more road noise...stiffer ride..(which is better for handling - but it is a personal option) Active Steering - could not trust my wife with it - too responsive......but I loved it...

If the car was for me ...I woulld get the Sport

but as this is the family car - we opted not to go with it (price was not a factor)

We did test drove both and have owned a 04 525i w/o it....

The ride quality and Quiteness is better w/o

The Handling is better with the sport.............

so if you want comfort - go w/o it
if you want handling and responsiveness it - go with it

 

I agree with the above. Same thoughts exactly. Love the feel of the car without it!

 

Welcome US military guy in Europe. Dame here but not an officer. Go with AS. It feels great and once you drive with it you never want to go away from it. Nothing is better than turning wheel 90 degrees instead of completely around to make a turn.

 

Where in Europe ?

We have an e60 meet near Frankfurt...

Check this thread!