X3 sDrive 3.0
 

Got one as a loaner today. I have to admit, it's not horrible. :eek:

if the steering wasn’t so weird, it would be a lot better.

also, it’s still bizarre to me that they even sell the X3 in RWD. like. what’s the actual demand for that? how could it possible have justified the certification cost? and really, THAT was more justified than offering a manual 330i?

They are ALL over ATL. Probably because they are $2k cheaper...and AWD isn't a necessity. Steering is rather Buick-like. I was wondering if Dynamic Damper Control would help with that, but likely it would just cut some of the corner wallow.

DDC offers: "Variable sport steering
Enjoy increased agility on winding roads, more safety at higher speeds, and great flexibility when parking. The steering ratio is continuously adjusted along with steering force to suit the changing driving situation."

But, no sport suspension available...

This, I agree with, including the part of your post I fixed.

The 4cyl has plenty of power for 95% of its use case, its just not that pleasant and I'd think there would always be buyers remorse for not getting the b58

That's how we felt about the 2009 X5 3.0 we had...Hence we bought the 50i in 2016.

I actually disagree. Once you are spending 340i money, you should really start thinking about an M3. Which will actually be sold with a stick. I’d like one low and one high option.

M's hold better value, but if you have dedicated sports cars, not as necessary. Sometimes you want to step into the higher isolation/comfort of non-M's. I don't miss having an m3 when I'm looking for the 340i coddling me.

sDrive might be perfect for the South/sunbelt, but I imagine it's gotta hit resale some way or another. It would be sales lot poison anywhere with snow.

In a perfect world, sure, manuals everywhere. But I would still argue that having a lower priced option is better than only having a 340i and M3 manual.

Here ...I fixed that for you ... love my 911 but would probably never buy a manual again ...

I am loving the pdk in the cayman and just think automatics are great ... ok vote me off this board ;)