The BMW 5 Series offers different things with each model, so at least five final words are needed here. The four-cylinder 528i is the best value, with the best fuel mileage and handling, but it isn't such a great value compared to other mid-size luxury sedans. The inline-6 535i sweetens the pot with its engine. The V8 550i makes a claim to master of the domain. The ActiveHybrid 5 doesn't offer a compelling reason to buy. And the all-new M5 has to compete against the M6 and M3.
Sam Moses filed this report after driving the 5 Series models near Monterey, California.
two-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain front-to-rear head protection, seatbelt force limiters and front–seat pre-tensioners, active head restraints, LATCH child seat mounts; ABS, EBD, brake assist, electronic traction/stability control
Safety equipment (optional):
rearview camera, side-view monitors, active cruise control, collision warning, blind spot detection, lane departure warning, automated headlights, automatic high-beam control, adaptive brake lights, night vision, head-up display, all-wheel drive
Basic warranty:
4 years/50,000 miles
Assembled in:
Dingolfing, Germany
Specifications As Tested
Model tested (MSRP):
BMW 528i ($47,500)
Standard equipment:
leather seating, climate control, power driver and front passenger seat with memory, wood trim, xenon high-intensity discharge headlights, fourth-generation iDrive cockpit control system, power tilt/telescope/tilt away steering wheel, ambiance lighting, one-touch up/down power windows, auto-dimming inner and outer mirrors
Options as tested (MSRP):
none
Destination charge:
($895)
Gas guzzler tax:
N/A
Price as tested (MSRP):
$48,395
Layout:
rear-wheel drive
Engine:
2.0-liter turbocharged dohc 16-valve I4
Horsepower (hp @ rpm):
240 @ 5000
Torque (lb.-ft. @ rpm):
255 @ 1250-4800
Transmission:
8-speed automatic
EPA fuel economy, city/hwy:
23/34 mpg
Wheelbase:
116.9 in.
Length/width/height:
193.1/73.2/57.6 in.
Track, f/r:
63.0/64.1 in.
Turning circle:
39.2 ft.
Seating capacity:
5
Head/hip/leg room, f:
40.5/NA/41.4 in.
Head/hip/leg room, m:
N/A
Head/hip/leg room, r:
38.3/NA/36.1 in.
Cargo volume:
14.0 cu. ft.
Payload:
N/A
Towing capacity:
N/A
Suspension, f:
multi-link
Suspension, r:
multi-link
Ground clearance:
N/A
Curb weight:
3814 lbs.
Tires:
225/55VR17 front, 255/55VR17 rear all-season
Brakes, f/r:
disc/disc w ABS, EBD, Brake Assist
Fuel capacity:
18.5 gal.
Unless otherwise indicated, specifications refer to test vehicle.
All prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) effective as of July 01, 2012.
Prices do not include manufacturer's destination and delivery charges.
N/A: Information not available or not applicable.
Manufacturer Info Sources:
800-831-1117 -
www.bmwusa.com
