Active Roll Stabilization (ARS)

Active suspension (ARS and/or DDC) is essentially what separates 5 Series handling from the competition. The base suspension is OK, but it's really no better than that offered by the competition. ARS in particular really transforms the car.

Originally Posted by jondoc72

Ummmm

Coming from my 650i that ARS and running my 535i Msport, ARS is a must on this car.

FYI: on the 535i: 2012 MSport is $4800 plus $2500=$7300 vs $6500 on 2011
on the 550i: 2012 Msport is $3800 plus $2500=$6300...not sure on 550i MSport pricing but I thought it was $6500 on 2011.

Originally Posted by jondoc72

sport automatic transmission or SAT
will get you a nice shifter and shift paddles on your steering wheel only for 500.00
superb, Superb shifting and response, when in sport
the best option for less

It also adjusts the steering feel and tighten up suspension (debatable).

At the BMW drive event recently, I drove a 550ix Msport, back to back against a 535ix Sport+SAT only. Both were driven the entire time with sport settings on for the entire 14 mile test course. The SAT is a great option for $500, but not enough in my mind to have the car steer and handle the way I would want it. The body roll in turns was definitely noticeable in the 535 and when exiting and entering the parking lot. Get DHP + SAT if you want to be able to have the "sport", otherwise it's mostly luxury.

I will go for the SAT and the M Sport package. For me that will be the best fit for what I'll use the car for. For others, the others handling options are a must for their driving habits. This is the nice part about being an informed consumer and special ordering your car your way. Thanks for all the input.

wanted to bump this up. I am still on the fence on ARS. Has anyone taken delivery of a M-Sport w/o the ARS. Impressions? $2500 is alot for an option that I am not clear of the true benefit vs only M-Sport. Thanks

Originally Posted by tlr550

wanted to bump this up. I am still on the fence on ARS. Has anyone taken delivery of a M-Sport w/o the ARS. Impressions? $2500 is alot for an option that I am not clear of the true benefit vs only M-Sport. Thanks

M Sport is basically just cosmetic. The ARS is a must to keep the even and well controlled feel in corning. It is a must IMHO.

The car handles so controlled and confidently with ARS.

I don't think anyone has received a 2012 yet so no facts.

Needsdecaf seems to be the lead opponent of ARS. There are many advocates of ARS including me.

About 700 miles on my car so far, and I *love* ARS. The car is astonishingly flat in corners. Well worth the price.