Should I buy variable bampers on the BMW 5 Series?

Hello I would like to know what you think of the variable dampner option on the new BMW 5 Series please. Do you think it would be better than the standard suspension and would there be a big difference between the two bearing in mind that it would cost me almost €1,500?

Susan Kelly (Dublin)

Jun 2011 Filed under: optional extras

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Expert answer

Hi Susan,

The variable dampers are a nice extra, but I would not say that they are necessary. We have used it in test cars for short periods and you invariably end up leaving it on the normal set-up. Unless you drive on really poor road surfaces or intend to drive the car on a race track then the normal setting is fine.

You won't get the extra money back in a few years when you trade it in again, so I would keep my €1,500 or else use it to get really nice leather upholstery.

Complete Car Adviser