Does The 4G TL Ride Too Hard? (Try To Be Honest)
#81
For me, my TL is WAY too soft. I always have to go super slow on small bumps and dips or else the front will crash into the ground. I always scratch the bottom when coming out of strip malls unless I drive extremely slow. How is the suspension in other large cars like Lexus GS, Mercedes Eclass, or BMW 7series?? M3 and s4 shouldnt be compared here. Those are tiny cars, and out of the tiny I cars I think Mitsubishi Evo has the best suspension.
#82
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I have owned three Acuras and test driven most every single one of them, including the TL SH-AWD (twice).
Having remembered the bone-jarring experiences with the RDX and the TSX, I was expecting the same for the TL.
It was a firm ride, but I did not find it harsh at all. Yes, I might have liked just a pinch softer but I found little to complain about.
Except road noise. Perhaps the tire tread has something to do with this.
Having remembered the bone-jarring experiences with the RDX and the TSX, I was expecting the same for the TL.
It was a firm ride, but I did not find it harsh at all. Yes, I might have liked just a pinch softer but I found little to complain about.
Except road noise. Perhaps the tire tread has something to do with this.
#83
I have owned three Acuras and test driven most every single one of them, including the TL SH-AWD (twice).
Having remembered the bone-jarring experiences with the RDX and the TSX, I was expecting the same for the TL.
It was a firm ride, but I did not find it harsh at all. Yes, I might have liked just a pinch softer but I found little to complain about.
Except road noise. Perhaps the tire tread has something to do with this.
Having remembered the bone-jarring experiences with the RDX and the TSX, I was expecting the same for the TL.
It was a firm ride, but I did not find it harsh at all. Yes, I might have liked just a pinch softer but I found little to complain about.
Except road noise. Perhaps the tire tread has something to do with this.
#84
Mademoiselle Chanel!!
I had a TSX as a loaner for an extended weekend when my CL was having maintenance done and then looked at purchasing a TSX and test drove everything in the lineup before going with the TL SH-AWD....I like being able to interface with the road a bit. By that I mean when the cabin of a vehicle is dead silent or the ride too much like a a comfy sofa it's as if some information isn't being given to me about the condition of the road. Not only that but when getting on my car hard or when pressed to, I want her to sure footed and with an athelectic suspension.
#85
smarty....my Accord ('08, which my son uses) rides very firm.....much firmer than my TL SH AWD. Since the TSX has the underpinnings of the Accord, it doesn't surprise me that it would ride more firm than the TL SH AWD (and certainly firmer than the TL base)>.
#86
Yes, I'm 1 of those guys
Last night was the first time that my wife let me drive the car some place other than the store. I did find that the ride was a little more solid then I would expect. I am hoping as the car ages, it will comm down some. I am comparing this to my 2000 528i with a worn out suspension.
#87
I test drove a AWD the other day. I was very impressed. My 1st car was a BMW and now I drive a Challenger R/T which is pretty stiff. I don't think the AWD TL was too stiff. But it depends on what you're used to. I plan to get a FWD w/ Tech by the end on the year
#88
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The ride works very well for me. I test drove both versions of the TL and decided that the SH AWD was a better ride for my comfort level. But, surely we can agree that this is something that is subjective. What's too harsh for one person is going to be fine for another, right? There is no right answer.
#89
Senior Moderator
The TL? Harsh ride? Whauchusmokin?
First, ride quality is very subjective and depends on what you've driven in the past, so if it feels harsh to you, it is and I can't argue with that.
I owned three Acuras (2 TLs and my RL) and they were all smooth-riding. I have personally driven the FWD and SH-AWD 4G TL and agree that the SH is firmer as befits its sportier mission, but was hardly harsh. With the SH, it was almost like they put the old A-Spec suspension on at the factory instead of making it an option.
Honestly, a magnetic ride shock option would be AWESOME, though very costly.
First, ride quality is very subjective and depends on what you've driven in the past, so if it feels harsh to you, it is and I can't argue with that.
I owned three Acuras (2 TLs and my RL) and they were all smooth-riding. I have personally driven the FWD and SH-AWD 4G TL and agree that the SH is firmer as befits its sportier mission, but was hardly harsh. With the SH, it was almost like they put the old A-Spec suspension on at the factory instead of making it an option.
Honestly, a magnetic ride shock option would be AWESOME, though very costly.
#90
I feel strongly both ways
Thread Starter
The TL? Harsh ride? Whauchusmokin?
First, ride quality is very subjective and depends on what you've driven in the past, so if it feels harsh to you, it is and I can't argue with that.
I owned three Acuras (2 TLs and my RL) and they were all smooth-riding. I have personally driven the FWD and SH-AWD 4G TL and agree that the SH is firmer as befits its sportier mission, but was hardly harsh. With the SH, it was almost like they put the old A-Spec suspension on at the factory instead of making it an option.
Honestly, a magnetic ride shock option would be AWESOME, though very costly.
First, ride quality is very subjective and depends on what you've driven in the past, so if it feels harsh to you, it is and I can't argue with that.
I owned three Acuras (2 TLs and my RL) and they were all smooth-riding. I have personally driven the FWD and SH-AWD 4G TL and agree that the SH is firmer as befits its sportier mission, but was hardly harsh. With the SH, it was almost like they put the old A-Spec suspension on at the factory instead of making it an option.
Honestly, a magnetic ride shock option would be AWESOME, though very costly.
#91
Drifting
I don't think it's a harsh ride at all. It's firm but not harsh.
I drove the TL SH-AWD and G37Xs back to back - now, the G37Xs is MUCH firmer than the TL SH-AWD even!!!
The Audi A4 S-line is also much firmer too.
I do agree that BMW does it a bit better. MB does a good job too but it is more of a Lexus ride without the floaty feeling.
I drove the TL SH-AWD and G37Xs back to back - now, the G37Xs is MUCH firmer than the TL SH-AWD even!!!
The Audi A4 S-line is also much firmer too.
I do agree that BMW does it a bit better. MB does a good job too but it is more of a Lexus ride without the floaty feeling.
#92
I don't think it's a harsh ride at all. It's firm but not harsh.
I drove the TL SH-AWD and G37Xs back to back - now, the G37Xs is MUCH firmer than the TL SH-AWD even!!!
The Audi A4 S-line is also much firmer too.
I do agree that BMW does it a bit better. MB does a good job too but it is more of a Lexus ride without the floaty feeling.
I drove the TL SH-AWD and G37Xs back to back - now, the G37Xs is MUCH firmer than the TL SH-AWD even!!!
The Audi A4 S-line is also much firmer too.
I do agree that BMW does it a bit better. MB does a good job too but it is more of a Lexus ride without the floaty feeling.
Drove a Mercedes C300 4 matic....probably the closest in ride handling to the TL SH AWD.
A4/5 rode a little nicer, but with more body roll.
Gx was harsher and didn't handle as well, IMHO!
To me, the ride/handling of the SH AWD was ideal....FOR ME! YMMV!
#93
Intermediate
SH-AWD is a bit harsh, but not too bad. I think it is noisy though; possibly the OEM tires??? Not to mention I got into the TL from a 05 GS300 Lexus, which is library quiet inside. I took my car in for service the other day, got a FWD loaner for 24hrs and the FWD felt softer than my SH-AWD.
#94
I'm coming from a Lexus IS 250 and about to take delivery of a TL SH-AWD 6MT tomorrow. I'm picking it up from a dealer 800 miles away, so I'll have a good opportunity to see how the TL AWD rides over a long trip. Initial test drives of the AWD TL at the local dealership showed me that the TL AWD did not ride a whole lot worse than my Lexus.
#95
I'm coming from a Lexus IS 250 and about to take delivery of a TL SH-AWD 6MT tomorrow. I'm picking it up from a dealer 800 miles away, so I'll have a good opportunity to see how the TL AWD rides over a long trip. Initial test drives of the AWD TL at the local dealership showed me that the TL AWD did not ride a whole lot worse than my Lexus.
Everytime I get into my friends IS250, it's really quiet and you don't even notice most bumps, they're all easily absorbed. In my late SHAWD, you heard and felt each and every little bump. I think vehicle noise (wind noise, glass thickness) is fine, it's the poor bump absorbtion from the suspension (or larger tires?) that makes the SHAWD noisy and stiff (though, not jarring).
#96
Drifting
I wonder if you had tire or shock issues with your AWD. This is all subjective, of course, but my 6MT has a very nice ride and is quite quiet. It's not as isolated-feeling as the larger Lexus models (i.e., GS, ES), but to me strikes a very nice balance between very good handling and smooth, quiet (but firm) ride.
#97
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Bearing in mind that I have been driving a 2008 Civic Si and Mazda MX6 for the past two years...
I think the ride in the TL is perfect. Its sporty, communicative, and not one bit jarring. Not once have I gone over a bump, pot hole, or railroad crossing that has jolted me.
If I can drive from A-to-B in a relaxed mood, and not be startled or "jarred" from any of the road blemishes, I consider that a great thing. The SH-AWD TL is a very good blend of firm and soft.
Quite honestly, you're comparing a vehicle that isn't intended to be a wafting cruiser to a Mercedes. If my wife and I wanted a ride that was pillow soft, we wouldn't have considered the TL. We wanted a sporty sedan that is a great value, which none of the BMWs or MBs can fulfill.
German cars I have driven and to which I compare: MB S320, BMW 330i, 325i, 525i, 530i, 540i Sport Wagon, 745, Z4 3.0, etc.
Not to mention the fact that by the time my friend's 1990 525i hit 220,000 miles he had his 4th auto transmission, new head, and every other problem you can imagine. My Acura Legend with 230,000 miles has a perfectly running original transmission and engine. Only time will tell if these comparisons remain relevant, but I am sure its not a total 180*.
I think the ride in the TL is perfect. Its sporty, communicative, and not one bit jarring. Not once have I gone over a bump, pot hole, or railroad crossing that has jolted me.
If I can drive from A-to-B in a relaxed mood, and not be startled or "jarred" from any of the road blemishes, I consider that a great thing. The SH-AWD TL is a very good blend of firm and soft.
Quite honestly, you're comparing a vehicle that isn't intended to be a wafting cruiser to a Mercedes. If my wife and I wanted a ride that was pillow soft, we wouldn't have considered the TL. We wanted a sporty sedan that is a great value, which none of the BMWs or MBs can fulfill.
German cars I have driven and to which I compare: MB S320, BMW 330i, 325i, 525i, 530i, 540i Sport Wagon, 745, Z4 3.0, etc.
Not to mention the fact that by the time my friend's 1990 525i hit 220,000 miles he had his 4th auto transmission, new head, and every other problem you can imagine. My Acura Legend with 230,000 miles has a perfectly running original transmission and engine. Only time will tell if these comparisons remain relevant, but I am sure its not a total 180*.
#98
The thing about the TL SH is it comes with a standard sport package and with the larger rim and lower profile tire setup. Many of the times the comprison is a little off base because the competitor car being referenced does not have the sport package or upgraded rim and tires, usually has norrower rubber and is on the smaller rims, sometimes with a larger tire diameter for improved noise and ride quality. That is more inline with the FWD model and is mostly how and why they differentiate the two.
The TL SH is AWD and front biased which doesn't help that situation and it uses the same large tire and rim setup all around, it's not staggered as many RWD cars are and many of the AWD competitors use smaller norrower setup, some with more rubber diamater.
Their tire choice in the Michelins are on the sporty side of all season touring. Others often use the popular and also cost effective Bridgestone and Continental all seasons models which I have had in previous cars and they are quieter and improve the ride quality a bit but really sacrifice in handling and grip and wear quicker with spirited driving but can last longer used normally in comparison.
The SH suspension is firm, firmer than a lot of cars it compares to and that is a big reason why it is as capable as it is but it is not necessarily as harsh as some of those that handle no better or worse.
I think all of this has to be taken into consideration and combined with probably the biggest reason for it, in what seems like Acura not sound insulating the wheel wells as well as they could have to allow for the car's engine and exhaust note to be heard through the cabin while not sacrificing wind and exterior noise at the same time, which is something previous owners called for and is another reason they left out the active noise cancellation.
Because of that, it is a bit noisy over bumps but that is only really apparent with no stereo or heat or A/C running in my experience. If you are driving in silence, essentially looking for it, you notice it immediately and it is a bit loud but for normal driving and given the car's ability and demeanor, it's not something terrible or overly apparent IMO but it is something that could be improved.
The TL SH is AWD and front biased which doesn't help that situation and it uses the same large tire and rim setup all around, it's not staggered as many RWD cars are and many of the AWD competitors use smaller norrower setup, some with more rubber diamater.
Their tire choice in the Michelins are on the sporty side of all season touring. Others often use the popular and also cost effective Bridgestone and Continental all seasons models which I have had in previous cars and they are quieter and improve the ride quality a bit but really sacrifice in handling and grip and wear quicker with spirited driving but can last longer used normally in comparison.
The SH suspension is firm, firmer than a lot of cars it compares to and that is a big reason why it is as capable as it is but it is not necessarily as harsh as some of those that handle no better or worse.
I think all of this has to be taken into consideration and combined with probably the biggest reason for it, in what seems like Acura not sound insulating the wheel wells as well as they could have to allow for the car's engine and exhaust note to be heard through the cabin while not sacrificing wind and exterior noise at the same time, which is something previous owners called for and is another reason they left out the active noise cancellation.
Because of that, it is a bit noisy over bumps but that is only really apparent with no stereo or heat or A/C running in my experience. If you are driving in silence, essentially looking for it, you notice it immediately and it is a bit loud but for normal driving and given the car's ability and demeanor, it's not something terrible or overly apparent IMO but it is something that could be improved.
Last edited by winstrolvtec; 11-05-2010 at 08:39 PM.
#99
I wonder if you had tire or shock issues with your AWD. This is all subjective, of course, but my 6MT has a very nice ride and is quite quiet. It's not as isolated-feeling as the larger Lexus models (i.e., GS, ES), but to me strikes a very nice balance between very good handling and smooth, quiet (but firm) ride.
#100
I think all of this has to be taken into consideration and combined with probably the biggest reason for it, in what seems like Acura not sound insulating the wheel wells as well as they could have to allow for the car's engine and exhaust note to be heard through the cabin while not sacrificing wind and exterior noise at the same time, which is something previous owners called for and is another reason they left out the active noise cancellation.
Because of that, it is a bit noisy over bumps but that is only really apparent with no stereo or heat or A/C running in my experience. If you are driving in silence, essentially looking for it, you notice it immediately and it is a bit loud but for normal driving and given the car's ability and demeanor, it's not something terrible or overly apparent IMO but it is something that could be improved.
Because of that, it is a bit noisy over bumps but that is only really apparent with no stereo or heat or A/C running in my experience. If you are driving in silence, essentially looking for it, you notice it immediately and it is a bit loud but for normal driving and given the car's ability and demeanor, it's not something terrible or overly apparent IMO but it is something that could be improved.
I'm still looking into the MMC TL and will take a loss if the car is good enough
#101
Racer
I wonder if you had tire or shock issues with your AWD. This is all subjective, of course, but my 6MT has a very nice ride and is quite quiet. It's not as isolated-feeling as the larger Lexus models (i.e., GS, ES), but to me strikes a very nice balance between very good handling and smooth, quiet (but firm) ride.
#102
I feel strongly both ways
Thread Starter
Anyone who has extensive experience behind the wheel of a BMW or M-B will immediately feel the difference when driving a TL. Especially so, the SH-AWD TL. For some reason, the German offerings just get the ride compliance/firmness thing 'right.' The TL is way too harsh. It's not complicated. Just drive a 3 series or 5 series back-to-back with a TL and get back to me. Don't get me wrong, the TL give you an absolutely bullet-proof car in terms of reliability and quality of construction. It's also a tremendous bargain. But you do give up a comfortable ride. With the German brands, you give up nothing except your dollars.
#103
Anyone who has extensive experience behind the wheel of a BMW or M-B will immediately feel the difference when driving a TL. Especially so, the SH-AWD TL. For some reason, the German offerings just get the ride compliance/firmness thing 'right.' The TL is way too harsh. It's not complicated. Just drive a 3 series or 5 series back-to-back with a TL and get back to me. Don't get me wrong, the TL give you an absolutely bullet-proof car in terms of reliability and quality of construction. It's also a tremendous bargain. But you do give up a comfortable ride. With the German brands, you give up nothing except your dollars.
#104
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Anyone who has extensive experience behind the wheel of a BMW or M-B will immediately feel the difference when driving a TL. Especially so, the SH-AWD TL. For some reason, the German offerings just get the ride compliance/firmness thing 'right.' The TL is way too harsh. It's not complicated. Just drive a 3 series or 5 series back-to-back with a TL and get back to me. Don't get me wrong, the TL give you an absolutely bullet-proof car in terms of reliability and quality of construction. It's also a tremendous bargain. But you do give up a comfortable ride. With the German brands, you give up nothing except your dollars.
#105
Anyone who has extensive experience behind the wheel of a BMW or M-B will immediately feel the difference when driving a TL. Especially so, the SH-AWD TL. For some reason, the German offerings just get the ride compliance/firmness thing 'right.' The TL is way too harsh. It's not complicated. Just drive a 3 series or 5 series back-to-back with a TL and get back to me. Don't get me wrong, the TL give you an absolutely bullet-proof car in terms of reliability and quality of construction. It's also a tremendous bargain. But you do give up a comfortable ride. With the German brands, you give up nothing except your dollars.
I haven't driven a current-gen TL, but have a 2010 TSX, and I think its ride/handling balance is outstanding, certainly better than the multiple previous generation TL's I've driven. It might even have the best balance, for me, of any non-BMW sedan I've driven. It's somewhere between the BMW 328i with and without the sport package, but closer to the non-sport. Many non-enthusiasts would probably find it too harsh, or at least too "busy," but after eight years in a 2001 Saab 9-5 Aero it seems almost cushy to me.
Now, if they could only fix that steering...
#106
Big price difference though
Anyone who's ridden in/driven a BMW or M-B know how they've mastered the art of ride compliance vs. handling. Simply put, the TL has not. It rides way too hard and is jarring on all but the best paved surfaces. The FWD car is way too hard and the AWD car is simply ridiculous.
And don't tell me "it adds to the car's sportiness," etc. because, as I said earlier, BMW and M-B pull off the perfect suspension tuning without a hitch. And I defy you to say BMW designs cars that wallow or are too loose.
And don't tell me "it adds to the car's sportiness," etc. because, as I said earlier, BMW and M-B pull off the perfect suspension tuning without a hitch. And I defy you to say BMW designs cars that wallow or are too loose.
Well, I came from a Subaru and the ride in that was WAY worse then my TL-SH so I'm happy its a night and day difference. BMW indeed has the best ride - but than again to get a BMW with the power, awd and tech my TL has I would have to pay about 15,000$ more
#108
If you want to experience a hard to explain ride, test drive a Genesis sedan. Don't know if my a** is used to Acura but on bumpy roads the Genesis gave me motion sickiness. It doesn't recover and regain composure well imo. On freeways it feels tall and the steering looses it's feel. Again imo. Quick lane changes cause the cabin to sway but the car remains firmly planted. Hard to explain. My wife and I both noticed how much road noise could be heard in the Genesis cabin.
#109
The Sicilian
I find that AWD vehicles in general have a rougher ride than non-awd vehicles. I also think the steering is harder as well.
I don't mind it, but I can see where older folks would not like it.
I don't mind it, but I can see where older folks would not like it.
#110
Mademoiselle Chanel!!
#111
Cruisin'
I have a 2010 BasicFWD/Tech. Having owned a 2ndGenTL , AudiA4 and a Caddy DTS I find the 2010 about right for driving in upstate NY. Not soft or not harsh. A better ride than the A4 and a more sportier feel than the 2nd GenTL. The Caddy was a different class altogether. No complaints from me.
#112
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Anyone who's ridden in/driven a BMW or M-B know how they've mastered the art of ride compliance vs. handling. Simply put, the TL has not. It rides way too hard and is jarring on all but the best paved surfaces. The FWD car is way too hard and the AWD car is simply ridiculous.
And don't tell me "it adds to the car's sportiness," etc. because, as I said earlier, BMW and M-B pull off the perfect suspension tuning without a hitch. And I defy you to say BMW designs cars that wallow or are too loose.
And don't tell me "it adds to the car's sportiness," etc. because, as I said earlier, BMW and M-B pull off the perfect suspension tuning without a hitch. And I defy you to say BMW designs cars that wallow or are too loose.
#114
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I think the stock suspension for the AWD is a perfect setup. Its very sporty with some comfort also. Not too stiff but not too soft but everyone is different.
I prefer a more sportier setup. I like stiffness(not crazy stiff though). It gives me that road hugging feeling. After getting my coilovers installed, I set it to be just a tad stiffer than the OEM setup.
I prefer a more sportier setup. I like stiffness(not crazy stiff though). It gives me that road hugging feeling. After getting my coilovers installed, I set it to be just a tad stiffer than the OEM setup.
#115
I drove back to back the TL SH-AWD (which I own) and the 335ix and 535ix which I cross shopped...
The TL SH-AWD has a firm ride...not uncomfortable (the fabolous seats filter a lot) just firm.....which you have to expect from a sport sedan with sport tuned suspensions, but extremely precise at the same time......it is literally glued to the ground so I guess that is the price you have to pay.
The 335ix felt as firm but not as glued on the road (but a lot depends on the actual tire setup of the car you actually test...it is hard to make generalization where the tires are a huge factor)....the 535ix felt softer, just a touch more puffery but, again, not as firmly planted and sure footed.
But I do like the BMW steering setup better (part of it is because of the RWD platform).....I like a lot its comunicative feeling...the TL is sharp accurate but it feels more sort of like a videogame....not much feedback.
I ride often in an A4....yes it is softer, but not as planted or precise...definitely more wallowing.....you cannot really compare the regular A4 with a TL SH-AWD.....the S4 instead is a different thing...
If you look for a puffy ride the TL SH-AWD (and probably the regular FWD TL too) is not the car for you......it is a sport sedan...get the RL or something else.
The TL SH-AWD has a firm ride...not uncomfortable (the fabolous seats filter a lot) just firm.....which you have to expect from a sport sedan with sport tuned suspensions, but extremely precise at the same time......it is literally glued to the ground so I guess that is the price you have to pay.
The 335ix felt as firm but not as glued on the road (but a lot depends on the actual tire setup of the car you actually test...it is hard to make generalization where the tires are a huge factor)....the 535ix felt softer, just a touch more puffery but, again, not as firmly planted and sure footed.
But I do like the BMW steering setup better (part of it is because of the RWD platform).....I like a lot its comunicative feeling...the TL is sharp accurate but it feels more sort of like a videogame....not much feedback.
I ride often in an A4....yes it is softer, but not as planted or precise...definitely more wallowing.....you cannot really compare the regular A4 with a TL SH-AWD.....the S4 instead is a different thing...
If you look for a puffy ride the TL SH-AWD (and probably the regular FWD TL too) is not the car for you......it is a sport sedan...get the RL or something else.
Last edited by saturno_v; 01-21-2011 at 09:15 AM.
#117
The Sicilian
I think the stock suspension for the AWD is a perfect setup. Its very sporty with some comfort also. Not too stiff but not too soft but everyone is different.
I prefer a more sportier setup. I like stiffness(not crazy stiff though). It gives me that road hugging feeling.
I prefer a more sportier setup. I like stiffness(not crazy stiff though). It gives me that road hugging feeling.
It also depends a lot on the tires on the car. A strictly summer performance tire is going to give a lot stiffer ride than an all season tire.
#118
Suzuka Master
If you want to experience a hard to explain ride, test drive a Genesis sedan. Don't know if my a** is used to Acura but on bumpy roads the Genesis gave me motion sickiness. It doesn't recover and regain composure well imo. On freeways it feels tall and the steering looses it's feel. Again imo. Quick lane changes cause the cabin to sway but the car remains firmly planted. Hard to explain. My wife and I both noticed how much road noise could be heard in the Genesis cabin.
#119
I'm glad I'm not alone KeithL.
#120
Intermediate
My previous 3 cars were German, vw gti, BMW 535i, and BMW 540i with sport package. The tl shawd I currently own has a somewhat harsher ride than the 540, better than the vw and much firmer than the 535. However, the BMW's are very sensitive to the balance of the tires and wear of the front suspension parts. Look on any BMW form for "shimmy" and you will get an idea of the problem. When everything is just right, I believe BMW has the best ride characteristics of any car I have ever driven. Keeping them just right will entail considerable coin as they get over 60k miles. My 540 with the staggered wheels devoured rear tires averaging about 10-12k per set.