F31 335d x drive Touring - perfect daily ?
Discussion
Howdy PistonHeads
Long time reader of PistonHeads and always intrigued to catch up on the latest Readers Cars threads. Thought I would introduce my 335d Touring to you all. Picked it up in Feb - pre lockdown.
Backstory
Ever since the launch of the 335d in the E9X model I’ve been enormously fascinated with it. Big power, respectable fuel economy in a very normal looking body shape – what’s not to like about it! Naturally like most - for me the 335d E9X represented E46 M3 performance with respectable fuel economy a ‘do it all’ car. In 2012 I was fortunate enough to be in the position to start looking at picking up a 335d namely in its E90 LCI form.
After an extremely disappointing experience with my local BMW Dealership – who basically had no time to show or sell me a car it left me with a bitter taste. Somehow, I end up buying a Mercedes Benz and after almost 9 years of owning Mercedes Benz cars and clocking up over 150k miles I found myself looking at the 335d again albeit in its Touring form.
… part of me always did regret not buying the 335d but I can’t take away all the great memories I’ve had in the Benz’s. I just had to get one ….
Specification
Some of the headline spec's ..
Tansanit-blau metallic (X10)
Indiv. leather extended/opal-weiss (ZAOW)
S459 Seat Adjustment, Electric, With Memory
S402 Panorama Glass Roof
S494 Seat Heating Driver/Passenger
S688 Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System
S6CP Preparation Apple CarPlay
S610 Head-Up Display
S688 Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System
S609 Navigation System Professional
S552 Adaptive LED Headlight
S2VF Adaptive M Chassis
S6AM Real-Time Traffic Information
S6NW Telephony with Wireless Charging
I’ve been disappointed with the handling of the car since purchase and then recently learnt the x-drive comes standard with SE suspension – why !? After much deliberation, searching and discussion with Lorcan and Daniel from AC Schnitzer I’ve decided to take the plunge and invest in ACS Springs. I’m looking forward to having the spring kit fitted to the 335d and for it to finally handle well as every BMW should from factory!
Thanks for reading.
Long time reader of PistonHeads and always intrigued to catch up on the latest Readers Cars threads. Thought I would introduce my 335d Touring to you all. Picked it up in Feb - pre lockdown.
Backstory
Ever since the launch of the 335d in the E9X model I’ve been enormously fascinated with it. Big power, respectable fuel economy in a very normal looking body shape – what’s not to like about it! Naturally like most - for me the 335d E9X represented E46 M3 performance with respectable fuel economy a ‘do it all’ car. In 2012 I was fortunate enough to be in the position to start looking at picking up a 335d namely in its E90 LCI form.
After an extremely disappointing experience with my local BMW Dealership – who basically had no time to show or sell me a car it left me with a bitter taste. Somehow, I end up buying a Mercedes Benz and after almost 9 years of owning Mercedes Benz cars and clocking up over 150k miles I found myself looking at the 335d again albeit in its Touring form.
… part of me always did regret not buying the 335d but I can’t take away all the great memories I’ve had in the Benz’s. I just had to get one ….
Specification
Some of the headline spec's ..
Tansanit-blau metallic (X10)
Indiv. leather extended/opal-weiss (ZAOW)
S459 Seat Adjustment, Electric, With Memory
S402 Panorama Glass Roof
S494 Seat Heating Driver/Passenger
S688 Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System
S6CP Preparation Apple CarPlay
S610 Head-Up Display
S688 Harman/Kardon Surround Sound System
S609 Navigation System Professional
S552 Adaptive LED Headlight
S2VF Adaptive M Chassis
S6AM Real-Time Traffic Information
S6NW Telephony with Wireless Charging
I’ve been disappointed with the handling of the car since purchase and then recently learnt the x-drive comes standard with SE suspension – why !? After much deliberation, searching and discussion with Lorcan and Daniel from AC Schnitzer I’ve decided to take the plunge and invest in ACS Springs. I’m looking forward to having the spring kit fitted to the 335d and for it to finally handle well as every BMW should from factory!
Thanks for reading.
martin mrt said:
I’ve had 2 E91 335ds, great all rounder, they are a bit soulless however.
For someone doing lots of miles, they make fantastic sense, I have fond memories
The F3x steps up the game with more power and the 8 speed box with the x drive, silly quick for a diesel
Beautiful colour combo and great spec you have, the springs will make a huge difference
My ONLY gripe is the 335d lost out on the split twin exhausts of the E91, once debadged only those that knew knew if you catch my drift. A debadged 335d looks no different to a 320d. Appeals to some I guess
I am of the exact same opinion. BMW should have kept the split twin exhausts.For someone doing lots of miles, they make fantastic sense, I have fond memories
The F3x steps up the game with more power and the 8 speed box with the x drive, silly quick for a diesel
Beautiful colour combo and great spec you have, the springs will make a huge difference
My ONLY gripe is the 335d lost out on the split twin exhausts of the E91, once debadged only those that knew knew if you catch my drift. A debadged 335d looks no different to a 320d. Appeals to some I guess
This particular car was de-badged from factory. Immediately after purchase I had Michelin PS4's fitted, alignment on a Hunter machine, major service at BMW along with having the x-drive & 335d badges fitted
I purchased BimmerCode to do some very small coding to make the car more pleasant to live with
1. Folding mirror on lock & unlock
2. Remove auto stop/start
3. Video in motion
4. Open/Close tailgate from key fob and button located on driver side
5. Door handle lights on when reversing
Just wanted to update this thread with recent developments.
As mentioned before I’ve not been happy with the handling. It’s always felt very disconnected from the road and the body roll has been excessive on acceleration, braking and changing direction. It was utterly shocking and very none BMW like and to be honest I was starting to question my purchase. How BMW signed this car off for production with such shocking suspension is beyond me.
After much deliberation and discussion with the AC Schnitzer team I decided to pull the trigger and have the ACS springs fitted. I chose to have my springs fitted by Mallory Performance in Leicester who are a premium AC Schnitzer partner - the workshop is ran by enthusiasts. I cannot praise them enough for their efforts and customer service – fantastic bunch and will certainly be using and recommending them in future!
I think the only way to describe the ACS Spring upgrade is that the car now handles as I was expecting it to handle from factory. Secondly the slight lowering has improved the aesthetics of the car and again as it SHOULD have been from factory. There is no bouncing up and down, rolling or nose diving on braking. The steering feels nicely weighted and turn in is precise. Even at higher motorway speeds the car just sits flat and planted. Totally love it now …
Naturally the idiot in me is now planning a Nürburgring trip before TF closes this season for a sub 9 minute BTG attempt.
As mentioned before I’ve not been happy with the handling. It’s always felt very disconnected from the road and the body roll has been excessive on acceleration, braking and changing direction. It was utterly shocking and very none BMW like and to be honest I was starting to question my purchase. How BMW signed this car off for production with such shocking suspension is beyond me.
After much deliberation and discussion with the AC Schnitzer team I decided to pull the trigger and have the ACS springs fitted. I chose to have my springs fitted by Mallory Performance in Leicester who are a premium AC Schnitzer partner - the workshop is ran by enthusiasts. I cannot praise them enough for their efforts and customer service – fantastic bunch and will certainly be using and recommending them in future!
I think the only way to describe the ACS Spring upgrade is that the car now handles as I was expecting it to handle from factory. Secondly the slight lowering has improved the aesthetics of the car and again as it SHOULD have been from factory. There is no bouncing up and down, rolling or nose diving on braking. The steering feels nicely weighted and turn in is precise. Even at higher motorway speeds the car just sits flat and planted. Totally love it now …
Naturally the idiot in me is now planning a Nürburgring trip before TF closes this season for a sub 9 minute BTG attempt.
Edited by peetee7 on Friday 21st August 20:54
Pizzaeatingking said:
Go for it, I'm off again in a couple of weeks, although I've not nowhere near enough experience to be aiming for times it was very enjoyable to take the car round last time.
That is a great pic & great username! Funnily enough I originally put a deposit on a Sunset Orange F31 335d Touring Shadow Edition in Feb of this year but had a change of heart as I figured it would be an inconvenience without electric memory seats as the wife does take the car. Such a lovely colour and when I do see the occasional Sunset Orange BMW it does remind me of what I was so close to buying. This was it ..
Demelitia said:
Isn’t the reason it comes with the se suspension due to the fact that the Xdrive diffs lower the ground clearance in comparison to standard rear wheel drive models?
If you look from the back you can see them hanging down a decent distance.
Love the colour of the car btw.
Would love to know the reason why the X-Drive comes standard with SE suspension. Technical/ non-Technical/ budget constraint ... really don't knowIf you look from the back you can see them hanging down a decent distance.
Love the colour of the car btw.
Thread update
Had the 35d sent off to my trusted vehicle security specialist Automotive Solutions for an aftermarket immobiliser along with a front & rear camera kit.
Had the EGR recall done at my local BMW Dealer. Whilst there I asked to be priced up on the BMW G21 M340d x-Drive Touring B57 3.0d. Like-for-like spec to mine
C3Z Individual Tanzanite Blue Metallic
VBEW Individual Ivory White Full Merina leather
Z0J Technology Pack
610 Heads-up Displayed
688 Loudspeaker syster – harman/kardon surround sounds
6NW Enhanced Blutooth with wireless charging
6U8 BMW Gesture Control
6WD Wifi hotspot preparation
ZBK Shadowline Plus
1PP 19” RFT Jet Black 791 M light Double-spoke alloy wheels
3BE Black mirror caps
420 Sun protection glass
7M9 BMW Individual high gloss Shadow Line with extended contents
ZGK Premium Pack
402 Panoramic glass sunroof
459 Elec Fr Seats + Driver Memory
488 Lumbar support, driver and front pass
3AC Towbar, electrically folding
493 Extended storage
4M5 Instrumental panel, leather
2VF Adaptive M Sport suspension
5A4 Adaptive LED Headlights
OAAS Prep High-beam Assist
Total OTR Price ……….. £62,301.99. Steep!
It’s a lovely looking car but not 62k + lovely. Will see how the prices are in 4/5 years … until then will continue to enjoy the 35d
Had the 35d sent off to my trusted vehicle security specialist Automotive Solutions for an aftermarket immobiliser along with a front & rear camera kit.
Had the EGR recall done at my local BMW Dealer. Whilst there I asked to be priced up on the BMW G21 M340d x-Drive Touring B57 3.0d. Like-for-like spec to mine
C3Z Individual Tanzanite Blue Metallic
VBEW Individual Ivory White Full Merina leather
Z0J Technology Pack
610 Heads-up Displayed
688 Loudspeaker syster – harman/kardon surround sounds
6NW Enhanced Blutooth with wireless charging
6U8 BMW Gesture Control
6WD Wifi hotspot preparation
ZBK Shadowline Plus
1PP 19” RFT Jet Black 791 M light Double-spoke alloy wheels
3BE Black mirror caps
420 Sun protection glass
7M9 BMW Individual high gloss Shadow Line with extended contents
ZGK Premium Pack
402 Panoramic glass sunroof
459 Elec Fr Seats + Driver Memory
488 Lumbar support, driver and front pass
3AC Towbar, electrically folding
493 Extended storage
4M5 Instrumental panel, leather
2VF Adaptive M Sport suspension
5A4 Adaptive LED Headlights
OAAS Prep High-beam Assist
Total OTR Price ……….. £62,301.99. Steep!
It’s a lovely looking car but not 62k + lovely. Will see how the prices are in 4/5 years … until then will continue to enjoy the 35d
Mr911lover said:
Lovely car and spec!
Any thoughts on getting the car mapped? They are seriously quick and put the power down so well.
Considered a remap on several occasions. Would have to be done by Ricky @ Unicorn DevelopmentsAny thoughts on getting the car mapped? They are seriously quick and put the power down so well.
Drive back home after having the ACS Springs fitted a 16 plate Audi S5 flew past in the fast lane of the motorway. Fortunately he had to slow down for slower traffic. Each time the traffic cleared he’d go for it the S5 did appear to have the legs slightly on the 35d! It continued for a few miles and the only way I could keep him honest was by getting on the accelerator a touch earlier before the car ahead of the S5 completely cleared the path.
S5 driver slowed to approve. In his late 50’s too. Wish I could do it all over again with a stage 1 map
Edited by peetee7 on Tuesday 25th August 20:49
Edited by peetee7 on Tuesday 25th August 20:50
Edited by peetee7 on Tuesday 25th August 20:51
Edited by peetee7 on Tuesday 25th August 20:51
vulture1 said:
What is the egr recall? Going to pick mine up on Friday.
Congrats! You can check here using your reghttps://www.bmw.co.uk/en/footer/quick-links/bmw-ve...
Just over a week since having the ACS Springs fitted and cannot explain how competent the car now feels. Effortless when pushing on down the country lanes and so planted on the motorway really am falling in love with it. Mrs and I went out for dinner parked up behind a lovely Tanzanite 430d x-drive. Don’t normally get to see many Tanzanite's. Obligatory picture …
Spinner20 said:
Perfect spec 335d touring there and the one I would buy.
Couple of recommendations:
1) go to royal wheels for a new steering wheel wrap in OEM leather or alcantara
2) don’t fit acs springs, go to birds and test out the setup they have, I went a bit bonkers and put full suspension, roll bars and diff on mine but BOY did it handle, suspension all you need
Thanks so much Couple of recommendations:
1) go to royal wheels for a new steering wheel wrap in OEM leather or alcantara
2) don’t fit acs springs, go to birds and test out the setup they have, I went a bit bonkers and put full suspension, roll bars and diff on mine but BOY did it handle, suspension all you need
Very familiar with Birds BMW and their excellent suspension setup for our British roads. I have no doubt the Birds B3 Sport Suspension Kit would be nothing short of excellent.
On the other hand I wanted to retain the originality of the car somewhat by keeping the adaptive dampers. It is also under a comprehensive BMW warranty. No regrets going down the ACS Spring root and for the price I can’t complain .... yet
vulture1 said:
Got mine 2 days ago, loving it, It is a blooming rocket ship launching out of corners in 3rd through 4th gear. Feels very heavy in braking though it is a heavy car.
That looks stunning vulture1. Congratulations on the purchase Mineral Grey does suit the car so much. The curb weight is 1796kg, this combined with the SE suspension it’ll feel a bit boaty – the symptoms I was experiencing. ACS Springs will take care of that though … all in good time.
The performance is hilarious
polar opposite to the way it looks which is why I adore it. I hope you enjoy it. Thread Update
Have managed to stay clear of a remap thus far … unsure how long I’ll resist for. Though current performance is ample IMO
Had a clear-out of unwanted items from the house and made the obligatory run to the local Waste Recycling Centre. Pleasantly surprised with load capacity – at times I did think there was no way some of those items would have got into the W205 C250d Saloon – previous car.
Paintwork is full of swirl marks. Does seem like the 1 previous owner before me loved his/her local £5 wash & dry. Car is being sent to a local detailer to have its paintwork put right …
Have managed to stay clear of a remap thus far … unsure how long I’ll resist for. Though current performance is ample IMO
Had a clear-out of unwanted items from the house and made the obligatory run to the local Waste Recycling Centre. Pleasantly surprised with load capacity – at times I did think there was no way some of those items would have got into the W205 C250d Saloon – previous car.
Paintwork is full of swirl marks. Does seem like the 1 previous owner before me loved his/her local £5 wash & dry. Car is being sent to a local detailer to have its paintwork put right …
jagfan2 said:
Good to hear, taking the plunge in the next week hopefully, though a 330dx, b
d finding the right spec at the right price, so many crap boggo ex lease cars out there . The one i am looking at is Tanzenite too, Mineral or Estoril was my preference, but dealer seems to do a good job prepping cars, but not seen it in the flesh yet , but worried about my ability to keep it that way (im a £5 wash and dryer currently but may have to change!)
Will see how i get on with thes suspension, did try a 330ds and did drive better than the 2 xdrives i tried. Weirdly the 335xd wasn't noticeably faster than the 330d, but suspect it wasn't 100%, was an accompanied test drive too annoyingly
Great choice jagfan2. 330d X Drive's are fantastically capable. You'll see better MPG figures without much compromise in performanced finding the right spec at the right price, so many crap boggo ex lease cars out there . The one i am looking at is Tanzenite too, Mineral or Estoril was my preference, but dealer seems to do a good job prepping cars, but not seen it in the flesh yet , but worried about my ability to keep it that way (im a £5 wash and dryer currently but may have to change!)Will see how i get on with thes suspension, did try a 330ds and did drive better than the 2 xdrives i tried. Weirdly the 335xd wasn't noticeably faster than the 330d, but suspect it wasn't 100%, was an accompanied test drive too annoyingly
Totally understand the whole finding one with the right spec. Took me a while to find the car I wanted but I can assure you it'll be worth the wait holding out for the right car
Ditched the M3 and took the 35d Touring out for an early drive out. Great first opportunity to learn how it behaves when pushing on down the B roads. Other than a slight hint of brake pedal dropping for a very short period - I was very impressed with its capability. Some corners had me wondering what pace could I have genuinely entered, taken and exited if I had taken the old M3 (E46).
Suspension and Michelin PS4’s performed so well. Being an X drive I’m very confident that had the roads have been damp the pace wouldn’t have been much slower – need a D3 Touring to give chase next time …
... in the absence of a D3 Touring I had the pleasure of a lovely m140i (Birds b1 suspension kit inc Quaife LSD), E92 335d (Stage 1) and F82 M4 (off shot) join me.
Suspension and Michelin PS4’s performed so well. Being an X drive I’m very confident that had the roads have been damp the pace wouldn’t have been much slower – need a D3 Touring to give chase next time …
... in the absence of a D3 Touring I had the pleasure of a lovely m140i (Birds b1 suspension kit inc Quaife LSD), E92 335d (Stage 1) and F82 M4 (off shot) join me.
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