The H&R 50494-3 is a four-spring sport lowering set for the E91 3 Series wagon in all-wheel-drive 328xi form, the N52 3.0L model. It replaces the factory front and rear coils, so the wagon sits lower with a tighter fender gap. Owners on user forums often pick this kit over a cheaper generic spring because the part number is specific to this chassis. Owners report that the front and rear drop can look uneven if the set is not matched to the car, so buy the exact number rather than a look-alike.
Compared with stock, the H&R set aims to lower the center of gravity and reduce body roll while keeping the ride tolerable for daily use, which is the trade-off most wagon owners want. Owners on user forums have reported that a lowered xDrive wagon with H&R sport springs can ride harshly over bumps unless the dampers are refreshed, and the rear sometimes sits lower than expected under load. For a long-tail search like "E91 328xi xDrive wagon lowering springs," plan on pairing this set with new shocks and getting an alignment afterward.
Fitment data gathered in research consistently lists 2007 through 2012 AWD 328xi wagons, but one source listed 2006 onward. Confirm the year and drivetrain with the manufacturer before ordering.
No. The 50494-3 is the xDrive set, and the RWD wagon uses a different H&R part number. Owners on user forums warn that springs with similar numbers have been sold for other BMW chassis, so match the part number exactly.
Owners on user forums commonly pair these springs with new dampers. One owner reported bottoming out on bumps after installing them with a different shock, so check your damper condition and ride height after installation.
Owners on user forums describe this as a driveway job for someone comfortable with coilover-style strut work. You will need a floor jack, quality spring compressors, and sockets for the 17mm sway bar end link nut, the 19mm strut nut, and the 21mm control arm bolt. On the left side, a 10mm bolt secures the control arm sensor. Forum DIY guides recommend loosening the sway bar bolt with the jack under the strut rather than forcing it, and compressing the spring far enough to clear the fender before removing the top hat nut. Watch the brake lines and sensor wiring while the assembly hangs, and get a wheel alignment after installation.
