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BMW 5-Series (G30) Forum 2017+ BMW 5 Series (G30) General Discussions Steering Difference between 540i xDrive and M550i xDrive?

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      09-17-2019, 07:34 PM   #1
bobmos
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Steering Difference between 540i xDrive and M550i xDrive?

I recently moved into a condo where my garage spaces are a hard right turn once I enter the garage. Quite tight. I usually come face to face a with a pillar that requires me to back up and re-align.

My car went in for service last month and they gave me a 7 series demo to drive. Entered my garage and the car made the turn with 3 feet to spare. I was shocked. My son suggested that it might have 4 wheel steering, and in fact it might... brilliant.

I have since taught myself the ideal entry and turning point to get my 540i into its berth without an adjustment. I get it right 9/10 times!

My Z4 went in for service today, and they gave me an M550i for a couple of days. Entered my garage the same as with my 540i, and it cut at least 3 feet off the turning radius.

I have the serial and checked the option codes and I see nothing related to steering.

My question is this... is there different steering on the M550 vs 540? They are both xDrive. Driving around town, despite the obvious engine noise and pickup, I notice almost no difference in road feel.

I also noticed in the option list that the car comes with a tire repair kit. Does that mean that they have abandoned the dreaded runflats?

My 540i is an '18, and the M550i is a '19.

Hope someone can clarify...

Cheers.
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      09-17-2019, 08:21 PM   #2
Bymep
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In the m550, 4 wheel steering is bundled into the dynamic handling package. It is stand alone option on other g30s. That is likely why it doesnt show up as a standalone for m550 on vin search
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      09-18-2019, 09:20 AM   #3
clee1982
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I hesitated on rear wheel steering because thought it might feel "unnatural", did you feel any different on the loaner or it was pretty easy to get used to
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      09-18-2019, 09:35 AM   #4
Bymep
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rear wheel steering feels a little weird at first when backing up and turning (like for parking). It feels like the rear of the car moves as a trailer attached to the back of the car would. I got used to it after a week or so. Only thing that is weird now is when I need to reverse my wife's car that doesn't have rear wheel steering

Except for turning at low speed (parking), I dont notice the rear wheel steering at going forward at all
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      09-18-2019, 06:05 PM   #5
bobmos
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I don't want to give it back... might seriously rethink my 18 540i...

Such a slippery slope!

The steering is amazing. The power in that engine is appalling. I put on the sport guages, and with all the short term boots I could make in city traffic I couldn't get past 360 hp. And I am quite sure I gave a few people heart attacks today.

Imagine what 525hp will be like.
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