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      03-21-2013, 01:56 PM   #21
nospam
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Drives: 2015 Alpina B6; 430i; X5 40e
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Orange County, CA

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It's all about what you are used to. My wife moved from a 2007 Honda Accord with overboosted steering to a 128i and felt the steering was stiff at first. I've gone through E36, E46, and E90 3 series cycles. I also drive a Honda S2000 which has hardly any hydraulic assist compared to BMWs...so no complaints from me.

When we test drove the X1s it was my wife that said she didn't want servotronic (i was willing to compromise for her sake) and now appreciates the steering. I do believe the thick M Tech steering wheel of the M Sports makes steering easier than the other wheels. Our X1 x28i is easier to steer than the 128i.

I don't think the reviewer is biased. The shifter is counterintuitive. I love the iDrive but it takes some getting used to. The business radio without iDrive is simply pitiful.


Edit: I recently learned that my S2000 has speed sensitive electric (not hydraulic) steering assist! I have a 2001 which apparently has a shorter steering ratio (13.8:1) and heavier steering effort compared to models 2004+ (and every BMW I've ever driven). I've always preferred the BMW steering racks but never could explain why until now. The short ratio and steering effort don't bother me, so it must be the EPS.

Last edited by nospam; 04-19-2013 at 03:58 AM..
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