Another 2011 BMW 5 Series review has just showed up on our radar. This time, the fellows over at AutoWeek took the 535i for a spin. Another positive review? Let’s find out.
“BMW’s new 5-series–the F10, as it is known internally–has the job of emulating the sales success of the old E60 5-series, which despite its controversial appearance became the most successful model in the car’s 38-year history. The car goes on sale this summer.
Expectations are high. Although the 5-series has traditionally represented just 25 percent of BMW’s worldwide sales, it is claimed to account for 50 percent of its profits.
Josef Wuest, the 5-series project leader, told AutoWeek, “We know the Audi A6, Jaguar XF and Mercedes-Benz E-class are all very good. We’ve tested and benchmarked each one extensively. But we also know we’ve built a better car.”
How’s it drive?
On the highway, the 535i’s engine is barley audible at a steady cruise. That’s because BMW geared the eight-speed automatic so high, you rarely need more than 2,000 rpm; the top gear runs a 0.667:1 ratio.
The tall gear ratios are good for fuel economy, but you often feel you’re a gear or two too high when the gearbox is left to its own devices. However, the 535i serves up solid in-gear acceleration the instant you plant the throttle, thanks to its 295 lb-ft of torque, which can be tapped at just 1,200 rpm.
The new electro-mechanical steering system with rear-wheel steer makes the 535i even more maneuverable around town than before. With optional adjustable suspension in comfort mode, the low-speed ride is sufficiently supple to soak up broken surfaces with authority. This car is terrifically composed with great stability, a nice tied-down feel and hugely impressive refinement at higher speeds.”
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/01/22/autow ... -bmw-535i/