Hi Gentlemen and Ladies,

I test drove 550iA today and here are my impressions:

1. Car very responsive in manual mode and DS mode. However, in D mode, transmission still upshifts too early, and hesitage to downshift while driving at 40mph. For 550iA owner, I think you guys are having this issue. Not responsive in D mode.

2. Premium Sound System sounds fantastic and way better compared to my standard sound system with the same CD I brought directly from my 530iA. I love it.

3. Braking is very good, but need to press brake pedal hard due to heavy car compared to 530i.

4. Steering is lighter than 530i at low speed.

5. While waiting for salesman to park the car back to where it's supposed to be, I heard engine knocking when he steered the steering wheel. So abnormal to 4.8L engine

In conclusion, the car drives very good in manual and DS mode, but lousy in D mode. BMW needs to address this issue.

Regards.

 

Thats why u should get a SMG or Manual... contol your own shifts

 

Agree!

 

I disagree Actulally (at leat in my car) the D response is pretty quick and DS is super quick holding the gears longer. Compared to my formal 530I, the brakes respond faster but you can feel the extra weight in the car. In turns the car feels just a bit heavier on the nose but nothing that a simple throtle and steering input can not fix . As far as performance this car moves very effortly, but when you pres the metal to the pedal (which i did already twice )..hold on the steering
Overall IMHO I'm more than happy with this E60 compared to my former E60 in every way.

 

Steering may be lighter b/c the 06 models have Servotronic steering as standard.

 

What year is the 550 and what year is your 530?

I know that my old E60 04 525 the steering was a bit harsh comparing to my 06 525.
Maybve the *servtronic* effect?

I was wondering if your 530 does not have it and the 550 has it.

Just a question..

 

hMy former 530 was a 2004 build in sept 2003 with active steering and active suspension. after amnh many software upgrades the active steering was almost perfect.
Now my 2006 550 build in September 2005 has servotronic and no active steering, just active suspension.

 

You have just described my 545 driving experience. Hate (yes a very strong word, I know) the car in D mode, DS won't let go of the gears sometimes but is more torelable. Manual mode is the best, but my commute is stop and go every 2 blocks for 12miles. Sigh........