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      12-16-2011, 07:26 AM   #1
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Adaptive M Sport Suspension

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A couple of questions...
1) What is it?! Is it like VDC or does it vary itself automatically?
2) Is there a significant change over the normal suspension? More comfortable? Less comfortable?
3) Should I get it?
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      12-16-2011, 01:23 PM   #2
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Quote:
Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123 View Post
1) What is it?! Is it like VDC or does it vary itself automatically?
AFAIK, all the 328i Sport models driven in Barcelona had this. My understanding is that is is both
1) variable damping, adusted by the SPort+/Sport/Normal/Eco toggle. (Getting this suspension adds control of damping to what this switch does.)
2) Dynamic (adaptive), but I haven't seen any details. I am going by the F10 Adjustable/Dynamic suspension.

Quote:
Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123 View Post
2) Is there a significant change over the normal suspension? More comfortable? Less comfortable?
I haven't seen any comparisons on the 328i Sport Line Adaptive M-Sport vs. other lines on tap for driving, if there were any. I think the UK mags got to drive 320d as well but not sure what suspension that was.
I saw some information (need to find a link...) that the passive M-Sport suspension would be softer that the Sport mode of the Adaptive M-Sport since customers would have to live with it 24/7.

Quote:
Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123 View Post
3) Should I get it?
Your call. IMO, not enough information at this point.
My prediction is you will not get a choice if you get M-Sport as US will not get option for passive M-Sport suspension.
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      12-17-2011, 03:21 AM   #3
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Well, I don't have it on my current F10(just the normal M Technik suspension) but I ordered it on my oncoming F30 335i. My ex E90 M3 had electronically adjustable suspension and though I didn't use it very often, I just want it on my next one.
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      12-17-2011, 04:17 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Robin Hood View Post
My ex E90 M3 had electronically adjustable suspension and though I didn't use it very often, I just want it on my next one.
You were using EDC for every mile you were driving.

You mean you didn't use the different manual setting levels.


I read that the F30 system is working in a very similar way, so definitely an active, continuously changing, system.

Even the older EDC system is active damping, continuously working from soft settings and adjusting as we drive. Soft where possible and adjusting the damping curve with load, speed, direction of travel, transverse and vertical acceleration, etc.. The manual settings only give us different levels of continuous damping.

So we are not into the predictability of a passive, but manually adjustable damper system.

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      12-17-2011, 04:26 AM   #5
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@Highland Pete: I should have said it like that. True.

But the EDC on the E90 M3 wasn't constantly changing every moment from one setting to another as I recall. It was like soft, normal or hard manually with one push on the button.

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      12-17-2011, 06:05 AM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Robin Hood View Post
@Highland Pete: I should have said it like that. True.

But the EDC on the E90 M3 wasn't constantly changing every moment from one setting to another as I recall. It was like soft, normal or hard manually with one push on the button.

M3 lists the option as EDC-C, which is the continuous adaption system. The switching just sets the working parameters for each level.


Quote:
BMW's Electronic Damper Control with continuous action (EDC-C) is a fully automatic system adjusting the dampers to every situation on the road. Sensors determine road conditions and the driver's style of motoring, micro-processors evaluate the data and choose the appropriate damper setting between "soft" and "hard". In addition, the driver can manually preselect either a comfortable or a sporting control mode.
Looking at a bit more information it appears the M3 has not got the EDC-C that is often put against the spec', but EDC-K, which works to a different set of parameters.

Quote:
The driver can choose between three settings, the controlled programs "Comfort" and "Normal", or the uncontrolled fixed setting "Sport".
Now does this mean the F30 gets the option of a similar M-sport adaptive damping system, with the "uncontrolled" sport setting?

That is what we need to establish, I believe.

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Last edited by HighlandPete; 12-17-2011 at 07:13 AM.. Reason: More Info
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      12-17-2011, 08:04 AM   #7
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@Highland Pete:Exactly. But it's a bit confusing.

Until I found this:

Quote:
Adaptive suspension. This features electronically controlled dampers that adapt
to both driving style and road conditions. Their operating characteristics can be
adjusted via the Driving Experience Control button. The optional adaptive suspension
is also lowered by 10 millimetres, without any adverse effects on the ride comfort of
the new BMW 3 Series Saloon. A stiffer suspension setting is available by selecting
Sport or Sport+ using the Driving Experience Control button.

Found here @ page 8:
http://www.f30post.com/goodiesforyou..._catalogue.pdf
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      12-17-2011, 10:34 AM   #8
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We still don't get the exact workings of the VDC, seems it is the fully active system in this instance, unless we find more specific detail.

This quote adds a bit more information, but still not specific enough to see the sport setting as a fixed 'passive like' setting as in the E92 M3.

Quote:
An Adaptive M Sport suspension with electronically controlled damping is also optionally available for the new BMW 3 Series. Based on incoming information about body and wheel acceleration, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, vehicle speed and steering wheel position, an electronic control unit adapts the damper mapping to the road surface and driving situation. At the same time the driver can use the Driving Dynamics Control switch to vary the basic suspension characteristics between more comfortable or sportier settings.
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      12-17-2011, 01:09 PM   #9
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Just like with many other electronic features the marketing blob makes it sounds so much more NASA-like. Basically there are 2 major reasons why your suspension compresses. 1st one is due to car's resistance to changing direction causing the car to lean side to side. 2nd one is due to wheels traveling over road imperfections. Reading the input from a variety of sensor already part of the stability control system the car can determine if the shocks should be softer or stiffer and does it continuously.

I have a feeling that this system will eventually be determined to be just a waste of money. But I've been wrong many times before. Mercedes had a very similar active suspension setup about a decade ago which they eventually abandoned. BMW used to have a self leveling suspension on the original M5 which turned out to be a major headache. Even active steering is something that isn't as "game changing" as once believed.
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      02-05-2012, 03:45 PM   #10
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Okay, I have found some important information I have been after for a while. Is the Adaptive M Suspension more comfortable in its respective setting than the standardly sprung car? YES!

"Long-distance comfort is still fantastic thanks to the supple ride, which is sensational for this class. Again, though, it helps if the car has the M Sport Adaptive Dampers fitted – when set to the Comfort mode, they ensure the 3 Series glides over rough roads. Without them, the standard set-up tends to be a little firmer."

Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carrevi...#ixzz1lXqHVI6w

For you American's, the Lines in the UK are only for aesthetic purposes, so the Sport Line for instance, does not have stiffer suspension.
Right, I'll seriously consider this option on a 328i which I am planning to order late next week after a test-drive of a 320d Sport tomorrow. My 328i is gonna be loaded with toys too!
Thanks for your previous replies too - helped me achieve a much better understanding of the system.
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      02-06-2012, 05:19 PM   #11
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Don't think I'm going to bother with it actually. Test drove a 320d Sport today (WHAT A FANTASTIC CAR!!!!!!!!) and it was very comfortable with the standard setup and still stiff and sporty enough when it gets twisty! Plus its a £750 option.
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      02-06-2012, 11:22 PM   #12
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I wish someone could drive both to compare damnit
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      02-07-2012, 08:45 AM   #13
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IS USA even getting Adaptive Suspension

I don't see any option for this when you configure on BMWUSA?
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      02-07-2012, 08:54 AM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123 View Post
Don't think I'm going to bother with it actually. Test drove a 320d Sport today (WHAT A FANTASTIC CAR!!!!!!!!) and it was very comfortable with the standard setup and still stiff and sporty enough when it gets twisty! Plus its a £750 option.
Tell us more please...
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      02-07-2012, 09:56 AM   #15
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Quote:
Originally Posted by carl_d
Quote:
Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123 View Post
Don't think I'm going to bother with it actually. Test drove a 320d Sport today (WHAT A FANTASTIC CAR!!!!!!!!) and it was very comfortable with the standard setup and still stiff and sporty enough when it gets twisty! Plus its a £750 option.
Tell us more please...
Not to thread jack my own thread, but. WOW!!! Luxurious, comfortable, sporty, fun! I never stopped smiling! The 20d was so impressive too! What a pearling engine. The idle sound is a bit embarassing after getting out my 30d but on the move, its supreme!! I can't believe a 2.0L TD could be do awesome! If your budget is stretched for a larger engine, don't bother and load a 320d with toys. The fit and finish of everything is superb. There are no similarities to the E90 at all! Those who call it a facelift from the E90 are very foolish indeed. I WANT ONE AND I NEED ONE. 328i Loaded for me! The Sport Line, even with red leather isn't garish either.
The 8spd auto. WTF is that. HOW CAN IT BE SO GOOD?!?!?!?!?!?
Its.... perfect. Blends the changes in D and even with the 20d, DCT quick with the paddles. It never missed a beat and it was a thorough test. Even with the 18" alloys on, I won't be performing sudden manouvers to avoid a slight crack in the road surface. Comfy. The seats, the iDrive, the dials, the lights.. just everything!!!!!! I cannot find fault with it. My praise doesn't get higher than that.
After driving a 1st gen Lamborghini Gallardo and then the 320d, I know which one I would rather have. F30!! Although a 335i or 328i.
I'm so pleased to be in a position where I'm about to pull the trigger on a loaded 328i Luxury.
So, my advice. Get one. It's just unbelievable with that 8spd Auto.
I didn't want to get out!
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      02-07-2012, 10:01 AM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bimmerlover View Post
I don't see any option for this when you configure on BMWUSA?
It's not on the online BMWUSA configuration tool but is in the US ordering guide.
But, only available on Sport Line, plus others have reported ordering it.
I believe it was also on all the Sport Line cars at the recent US press drive event in Monterrey.
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      02-07-2012, 10:02 AM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123 View Post
Not to thread jack my own thread, but. WOW!!! Luxurious, comfortable, sporty, fun! I never stopped smiling! The 20d was so impressive too! What a pearling engine. The idle sound is a bit embarassing after getting out my 30d but on the move, its supreme!! I can't believe a 2.0L TD could be do awesome! If your budget is stretched for a larger engine, don't bother and load a 320d with toys. The fit and finish of everything is superb. There are no similarities to the E90 at all! Those who call it a facelift from the E90 are very foolish indeed. I WANT ONE AND I NEED ONE. 328i Loaded for me! The Sport Line, even with red leather isn't garish either.
The 8spd auto. WTF is that. HOW CAN IT BE SO GOOD?!?!?!?!?!?
Its.... perfect. Blends the changes in D and even with the 20d, DCT quick with the paddles. It never missed a beat and it was a thorough test. Even with the 18" alloys on, I won't be performing sudden manouvers to avoid a slight crack in the road surface. Comfy. The seats, the iDrive, the dials, the lights.. just everything!!!!!! I cannot find fault with it. My praise doesn't get higher than that.
After driving a 1st gen Lamborghini Gallardo and then the 320d, I know which one I would rather have. F30!! Although a 335i or 328i.
I'm so pleased to be in a position where I'm about to pull the trigger on a loaded 328i Luxury.
So, my advice. Get one. It's just unbelievable with that 8spd Auto.
I didn't want to get out!
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      02-07-2012, 10:50 AM   #18
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From Autocar's first drive of the 320d on UK roads:

"First, the ride. True, the test car came optionally kitted with the adaptive M Sport suspension that does a fine job of smothering bumps, but equally it rides on 50-section run-flat tyres, and even in the firmer Sport and Sport Plus modes it delivers a fluency of motion that you simply won’t experience in the old M Sport 320d."
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      06-22-2012, 07:37 PM   #19
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Looks like in the US for 2013 you have to order it with Variable Sport Steering as part of the dynamic handling package (ZDH). I drove an F30 328i SL with this package and the auto -- the steering and ride felt loose and disconnected in sport mode compared to my 2006 325i with ZSP. Any back to back comparisons of a US spec sport line with and without ZDH?
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