Quote:
Originally Posted by Jefflikescars
|
Agree, 66 decibels is very good. However, in C&D’s earlier review of the 40i and 50i, they measured 64 dB.
https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a28006624/bmw-x7-quiet-interior-test/
I think they are at a range though where tire size and tread design as well as road surface are factors. C&D put blizzak snow tires on their long term M50i, but their article isn't clear if those were on during the sound test. If they were, 66 dB is incredible. I have blizzaks on another vehicle and they are extremely noisy compared to most all season tires.
I was finally able to test drive the 40i, 50i, and M50i. I couldn't discern much difference in noise between any of them at highway speeds. The 50i and M50i seemed noiser to me accelerating around town and from 0 - 45 MPH. I bought a noise meter, but it was lower end and I found it wasn't repeatable enough in my testing.
I ended up choosing the 40i for 3 primary reasons:
-the extra range is simply more convenient for me.
-my perception was the 40i is slightly quieter around town, and certainly at startup. Again, the difference at highway speeds is pretty hard to differentiate.
-I prefer the ride of non-runflats, and the 21" w/non-runflats flats are factory options on the 40i and 50i, but not the M50i
There will be days I'll wish I had the extra noise and power, just for the occasional grin. But for my daily commute and hauling the kids, I was trying to minimize noise and maximize comfort. I'll have to get a play car to more driving excitement on the weekends.