[chanceparker]

I previously owned an 07 335i Sport Package and loved it. But I got rid of it when I moved to Denver in favor of something with AWD...an 07 A4 Quattro S-line.

Well, I am now getting ready to replace the A4 and test drove a low mileage 2011 335xi yesterday. Wow did the steering feel heavy and rubbery compared to what I remember from my RWD 335.

Is this typical? Does the xi steering feel that much different than an i?

Thanks

[CombatNinja]

Maybe it had the active steering option? Properly working, the 335ix steering feels like a regular 335. Active steering cars always feel a bit weird to me, esp. at parking lot speeds where it is very, very light.

[mike5809]

I also had a 07 335i Coupe and now a 2011 335 xDrive Coupe and I don't notice a huge difference. I also have RFTs on the xDrive. It doesn't feel as tight but I don't think that most people would notice a difference.

[Phil R]

I also had a 2007 335i sedan, and now have a 2011 335ix sedan, both with sport package. I haven't noticed any difference in the steering feel....both about the same.

[sy2767]

It is a little heavier but i think its nicely weighted.

[gtaccord]

The steering ratio is quite a bit slower on the xi (I have heard 18.5:1 but not sure). This causes the steering to feel heavier and less lively. Combine this with the typical all wheel drive effect on steering and the different suspension geometry used in the xi and there is definitely a difference in feel and performance between the two. I got used to it fairly quickly but it is fairly surprising to anyone that jumps in and starts driving when they are used to something else.

[avocet]

What tires? I find the difference between my summer and winter set ups is profound.

[chanceparker]

Thanks for the quick replies. It's probably just a "new to me" thing and you get used to it. But it was different, no question.

BTW, Avocet is right...tires can have a profound affect but this was more than that, especially since the xi had Pilot Sports and not All-Season or winter tires.

[AlpineSwift]

Coming from an A4, its going to feel very different. Having said that the only real difference in Xi steering should be that it's marginally heavier in steering feel compared to its RWD counterparts. I would say something is either jacked with the car you drove or it has the active steering.