Experiences with the Standard Suspension on BMW iX50: What type of suspension should you pick?
The BMW iX comes with lift-related dampers as standard fitment, offering hydraulic damping to be incorporated into the damper. This adjusts the damper firmness progressively according to the changing spring travel. After test driving the iX40 in the UK, it became clear that the standard suspension is more than enough for this 2.5 ton car on 22 inch low profile tyres. It can handle cruising sedately or hustling through a series of bends, with excellent body control and damped ride over less than perfect surfaces.
The hydraulically-dampened standard suspension does not provide increased ground clearance, although modest in the iX, and air suspension is required for this feature. Air Suspension also provides an IAS package, which may make the iX50 w/ air suspension, Bowers & Wilkins, and 4-wheel steering a unicorn. However, air suspension can become maintenance problems as they age and can be very expensive if/when it starts to fail.
Tesla customer service used to offer loaner cars with springs instead of air suspension, and there was no noticeable difference between them. This suggests that non-air suspension is just as good as air suspension when it comes to performance. Ultimately, it is up to each individual driver to decide what type of suspension best suits their needs.The iX50 is a great car, and the standard suspension provides an excellent ride. It may not be as luxurious or comfortable as air suspension, but it does provide good body control and damping over rough surfaces. The non-air suspension also offers better value for money than air suspension in terms of maintenance costs. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when deciding which type of suspension best suits your needs on the BMW iX50.
What kind of suspension does the BMW iX have?
The BMW iX comes with lift-related dampers as standard fitment, offering extra hydraulic damping to be incorporated into the damper, which adjusts the damper firmness progressively according to the changing spring travel.
Is air suspension available on the BMW iX?
Air suspension is not available on the BMW iX, however, the standard suspension offers excellent body control and damped ride over less than perfect surfaces for a 2.5 ton car on 22 inch low profile tyres.
Does the standard suspension provide increased ground clearance?
No, the standard suspension does not provide increased ground clearance, although it is modest in the iX. The IAS (Integrated Active Suspension) package with air suspension provides increased ground clearance.
How does air suspension compare to springs?
Air suspensions can offer a smoother ride than springs, however they can become maintenance problems as they age. Some users have reported that they did not notice any difference between air and springs when test driving cars.
What are the benefits of air suspension?
Air suspensions offer a smoother ride than springs, as they can adjust to changing road conditions. They also provide increased ground clearance and improved handling, as well as improved load carrying capacity. Air suspensions also reduce body roll and improve cornering stability.