Sporty luxury Sporty luxury: 2009 BMW 535i

Cars

By Art Voss, Motor Matters

Last update: November 13, 2009 - 3:55 PM

BMW's 5 Series has clearly advanced to the level of sophistication and refinement previously held by earlier model 7 Series - perhaps even well beyond, when considering the enhanced technological equipment, as well as efficiency and performance characteristics.

BMW's 5 Series models come with high-performance inline 3.0-liter six-cylinder and 4.8-liter V-8 engines. The six-cylinder engines come in both a normally aspirated (230 horsepower) or twin-turbocharged (300 horsepower) with Piezo direct injection version. The V-8 engine delivers 360 horsepower.

My review 5 Series was the BMW 535i xDrive. The exterior was Platinum Gray metallic, while the interior was done in Gray Dakota leather. The base price was set at $53,400.

The final price tag came to $65,420 after adding the following options: Cold Weather Package; heated front seats and retractable headlight washers; Premium Package that includes universal garage-door opener, auto-dimming mirrors and 17-inch alloy wheels; comfort access system, active cruise control; park distance Control; iPod and USB adapter; navigation system; and satellite radio.

The new, 300 horsepower, twin-turbo 535i xDrive is the quickest six-cylinder-powered 5 Series produced by BMW, thus offering unparalleled smoothness and satisfying sound. The pair of relatively small turbochargers significantly boosts performance, while minimizing traditional turbocharger response lag ("turbo lag").

Additionally, high-precision Piezo direct fuel injection further enhances overall performance and fuel efficiency, and heat-resistant materials in the engine aid in facilitating performance characteristics.

The 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder delivers smooth, crisp acceleration through the six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The power delivery to all four wheels provides extra grip and stability in spirited driving scenarios, while the ride comfort level is exemplary.

The BMW 5 Series models include the 528i, 528i xDrive, 535i and 535i xDrive sedans; a 535i Sports Wagon; and the flagship 550i sedan. All are available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission.

The 2009 5 Series showcases significant technological options that complement an already extensive array of standard performance, comfort and safety features.

Available options include: lane departure warning system; active cruise control with stop & go; active steering; park distance control; Xenon adaptive headlamps, with auto-leveling and low-speed cornering lights; leather upholstery; light poplar polished interior wood trim accents; bamboo wood interior trim; 20-way front multi-contour seats; split-folding rear seat backs and ski bag; heated front and rear seats; BMW onboard navigation system; head-up display; Logic7 premium stereo; Sirius satellite radio; High-definition radio; iPod/USB adapter; and power rear window and manual rear side-window sunshades.

All in all, the BMW 535i xDrive is a sporty luxury sedan that takes the four seasons by storm with confidence.

EPA fuel economy:

City: 17, Highway: 25

Base Price:

$53,400 (as tested, $65,420)

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