The torque's peak is attained at only 1,400 rpm--that means as soon as the car takes off, the engine is in full swing, and the 535i is catapulted to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. The twin-turbo inline-6 never seems to run out of breath, and despite all that output, I'm averaging 11.8 L/100 km. The extra $14,000 to get the 360-hp V8 of the 550i suddenly seems like a waste of money.
The top things off, one can choose between a 6-speed manual and a no-charge 6-speed automatic with manual mode, which works marvellously.
Now, imagine the same engine in the little 135i that's coming next spring... needless to say, I'm drooling already.
This 535i is also equipped with Active Steering, which optimizes the precision of the steering according to vehicle speed, with the help of an auxiliary electric motor. At low speeds, you might have the impression that the car oversteers during the first few minutes of driving, but you quickly get used to it. The turning circle is also improved, so parking the car is easier. When the wheel is turned all the way to one side, you can see the car lean on one side, like if it was compressing its shock absorber.
At higher speeds, BMW claims the system helps keep the car tracking in a straight line, but it's pretty hard to judge its effectiveness without comparing it side by side with a 5-Series that isn't equipped with it.
Guaranteed comfort
I strongly recommend getting the Comfort Seats, which cost $1,000 or are included in the $3,800 Premium Package. They consist of chairs with numerous power adjustments: cushion height, cushion extension, lumbar support, seatback angle, seatback curve and lateral support. The curve of the headrests can also be manually adjusted. It is impossible not to get a royally comfy driving position, and everyone who sat in the car said the same thing: "Woah."
 |
| The automatic transmission is controlled by using this original lever. |
The top things off, one can choose between a 6-speed manual and a no-charge 6-speed automatic with manual mode, which works marvellously.
Now, imagine the same engine in the little 135i that's coming next spring... needless to say, I'm drooling already.
This 535i is also equipped with Active Steering, which optimizes the precision of the steering according to vehicle speed, with the help of an auxiliary electric motor. At low speeds, you might have the impression that the car oversteers during the first few minutes of driving, but you quickly get used to it. The turning circle is also improved, so parking the car is easier. When the wheel is turned all the way to one side, you can see the car lean on one side, like if it was compressing its shock absorber.
At higher speeds, BMW claims the system helps keep the car tracking in a straight line, but it's pretty hard to judge its effectiveness without comparing it side by side with a 5-Series that isn't equipped with it.
Guaranteed comfort
I strongly recommend getting the Comfort Seats, which cost $1,000 or are included in the $3,800 Premium Package. They consist of chairs with numerous power adjustments: cushion height, cushion extension, lumbar support, seatback angle, seatback curve and lateral support. The curve of the headrests can also be manually adjusted. It is impossible not to get a royally comfy driving position, and everyone who sat in the car said the same thing: "Woah."
 |
| Undeniably the most comfortable seats. |