But now that I have experienced the BMW 535i, I might just have grasped the understanding of the word "Joy".
The all-new BMW 5-series is one sedan that automotive critics and car enthusiasts know exactly what to expect - cat-quick reflexes, refined engines that purr at low speeds, but build to a vicious growl as they, very quickly, build up speed. It's one with an interior that pleases the driver, but offer little to passengers. BMW sedans are the consummate driver's cars.
And that's why this one has the automotive press scratching their heads.
It's more refined and better looking than the previous 5-series, features one of the finest passenger cabins in its class and it comes with a choice of two extraordinary engines - the 523i and the 535i.
Exterior
BMW has got a whole different plan up its sleeves. Although the car still proudly displays the brand's trademark dual-kidney grille at the front, the styling is much humbler by comparison to its previous 5-series. The multiple surfaces on its curved bonnet portray to be softer-looking and the flanks really lend the design an edgy air while the head lights are less stretched. The car features the same 'back to its roots' styling and you can honestly recognise this as a BMW, even without the badges.
There are also hints of the sporty 6-series upfront, especially the way the grille section extends backwards to the bonnet area. There is a reassuring classicism in the artfully shaped cut lines that are part of the graphic composition. Flowing lines with long hood and short rear deck, and a futuristic-looking front-end treatment with the white Corona rings that act as daytime running lights highlight the exterior.
The all-new BMW 5-series is one sedan that automotive critics and car enthusiasts know exactly what to expect - cat-quick reflexes, refined engines that purr at low speeds, but build to a vicious growl as they, very quickly, build up speed. It's one with an interior that pleases the driver, but offer little to passengers. BMW sedans are the consummate driver's cars.
And that's why this one has the automotive press scratching their heads.
It's more refined and better looking than the previous 5-series, features one of the finest passenger cabins in its class and it comes with a choice of two extraordinary engines - the 523i and the 535i.
Exterior
BMW has got a whole different plan up its sleeves. Although the car still proudly displays the brand's trademark dual-kidney grille at the front, the styling is much humbler by comparison to its previous 5-series. The multiple surfaces on its curved bonnet portray to be softer-looking and the flanks really lend the design an edgy air while the head lights are less stretched. The car features the same 'back to its roots' styling and you can honestly recognise this as a BMW, even without the badges.
There are also hints of the sporty 6-series upfront, especially the way the grille section extends backwards to the bonnet area. There is a reassuring classicism in the artfully shaped cut lines that are part of the graphic composition. Flowing lines with long hood and short rear deck, and a futuristic-looking front-end treatment with the white Corona rings that act as daytime running lights highlight the exterior.
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Round the back, twin tail pipes thrust from each end of the valance and this results in a sportier stance which doesn't rely solely on flared arches to make an impact. However, the eye-catcher is the bright red tail lights. Given its naturally BMW-like rear design, drivers behind can easily recognise the new sedan from afar.
The car is visually more compact than its dimensions suggest. I reckon being big without appearing bulky is the 5's forte. In all, it's more conservative than the previous 5 but, in my opinion, also more attractive.
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Interior
This swanky sedan was generously offered to me by Performance Motor Limited (PML) and when I got in, the inside was filled with an impressive list of amenities, as well as plushness that comes quite close to what a 7-series owner is accustomed to. The handsome new interior is trimmed with a tasteful combination of metal, wood and leather. Everything you see and touch exudes a sense of luxury. In the dark, the orange ambient lighting generates a warm interior atmosphere and an all-round sense of well being, giving drivers and passengers a satisfied feel when inside.
The dash is elegant and it feels expensive, with few buttons, but dominated by a center screen that monitors all functions and provides vision for the navigation system as well as the park assistance. All of these are controlled with BMW's iDrive, which is a brand new feature on the 5. I reckon it offers a one-knob interface that is loved by computer jocks and disliked by some. The controls are all logically arranged, with functions primarily operated by the signature iDrive and surrounding function keys below the electronic shift lever.
This swanky sedan was generously offered to me by Performance Motor Limited (PML) and when I got in, the inside was filled with an impressive list of amenities, as well as plushness that comes quite close to what a 7-series owner is accustomed to. The handsome new interior is trimmed with a tasteful combination of metal, wood and leather. Everything you see and touch exudes a sense of luxury. In the dark, the orange ambient lighting generates a warm interior atmosphere and an all-round sense of well being, giving drivers and passengers a satisfied feel when inside.
The dash is elegant and it feels expensive, with few buttons, but dominated by a center screen that monitors all functions and provides vision for the navigation system as well as the park assistance. All of these are controlled with BMW's iDrive, which is a brand new feature on the 5. I reckon it offers a one-knob interface that is loved by computer jocks and disliked by some. The controls are all logically arranged, with functions primarily operated by the signature iDrive and surrounding function keys below the electronic shift lever.
The electronic seats are relatively comfortable with a surprising amount of side support, and there's enough room for three adults at the back. It is, no doubt, still a comfortable place, even if legroom is adequate rather than generous for passengers. While evolutionary, it's a beautifully executed space, with long, clean lines and ergonomically sound primary and secondary controls.
That's the thing about this 5. Personally, it's unquestionably the most advanced, most complex mid-size sedan that BMW has ever produced. And it's a challenge to decipher how the electronics work to your advantage and guide your last stunt. It's a car that's far too smart for regular drivers looking for practicality. Despite that, all carmakers in this luxury class are playing with active dynamics these days, but it's BMW's mastery that puts the 5 at the top of the class.
That's the thing about this 5. Personally, it's unquestionably the most advanced, most complex mid-size sedan that BMW has ever produced. And it's a challenge to decipher how the electronics work to your advantage and guide your last stunt. It's a car that's far too smart for regular drivers looking for practicality. Despite that, all carmakers in this luxury class are playing with active dynamics these days, but it's BMW's mastery that puts the 5 at the top of the class.
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Drivetrain
Once you press the Start button, the 3-litre sinister engine starts pumping up under the long bonnet and the sound makes a very discreet impact on the acoustically shielded cabin. Refinement is first class, and even at high speeds the cabin is pleasantly free of excessive wind noise. On the go, the ride is supple and refined, without being too soft or floaty, yet it's ready to boogie at a moment's notice.
Nudge the eight-speed automatic gear selector, drive off, and the delivery of power and speed is instantaneous while the high revs are accompanied by a subtle but potent engine sound. The car came with the optional three-mode Dynamic Driving Control system, with Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings to progressively sharpen the chassis. It speeds up throttle and shift responses as well, and along winding roads makes a considerable difference to the handling.
On the other hand, you can move the gearshift lever into 'M' for manual mode and shift for yourself, but you'll seldom bother when you have a gearbox this good. I guess you can argue that these electronic aids remove purity and purpose, but it's undeniable that they are virtually a necessity to make today's two-ton sedans behave how we want.
Once you press the Start button, the 3-litre sinister engine starts pumping up under the long bonnet and the sound makes a very discreet impact on the acoustically shielded cabin. Refinement is first class, and even at high speeds the cabin is pleasantly free of excessive wind noise. On the go, the ride is supple and refined, without being too soft or floaty, yet it's ready to boogie at a moment's notice.
Nudge the eight-speed automatic gear selector, drive off, and the delivery of power and speed is instantaneous while the high revs are accompanied by a subtle but potent engine sound. The car came with the optional three-mode Dynamic Driving Control system, with Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings to progressively sharpen the chassis. It speeds up throttle and shift responses as well, and along winding roads makes a considerable difference to the handling.
On the other hand, you can move the gearshift lever into 'M' for manual mode and shift for yourself, but you'll seldom bother when you have a gearbox this good. I guess you can argue that these electronic aids remove purity and purpose, but it's undeniable that they are virtually a necessity to make today's two-ton sedans behave how we want.
The 535i boasts an enormous power of 306bhp at 5,800rpm and a maximum torque of 400Nm at 1,200rpm. As you would imagine, the numbers translate to the zippy acceleration off the line. More importantly for BMW, the straight-six petrol engine with TwinPower Turbo overtakes with impeccable ease, surfing on the abundant torque that comes with the turbo set-up. And when flung around like a sports car, the vehicle felt composed and comfortable with little body roll. Additionally, to get things moving across at 6.1 seconds over a wide speed range of 0 - 100km/h, such an operation is both effortless and regal.
Conclusion
I reckon the all-new 5 is easier on the eyes and far easier to find its magic than its immediate predecessor. This conservatively styled BMW 5-Series is likely to remain one of the top choices in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. Its combination of performance, comfort and technology is certainly tough to beat.
So if you've got some cash to spare and you're looking for something good enough to stand out from its competitors, think 5. At the price of $294,800 (as of 09 July 2010), you get everything you want with the 5-series - except fun.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Conclusion
I reckon the all-new 5 is easier on the eyes and far easier to find its magic than its immediate predecessor. This conservatively styled BMW 5-Series is likely to remain one of the top choices in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. Its combination of performance, comfort and technology is certainly tough to beat.
So if you've got some cash to spare and you're looking for something good enough to stand out from its competitors, think 5. At the price of $294,800 (as of 09 July 2010), you get everything you want with the 5-series - except fun.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
