In back, space is abnormally tight; for two people, no problem, but three across is more complicated. The 535i isn't an exception in its segment, however, as the Audi A6 and the Lexus GS, to my knowledge, are no better.
Among the mandatory gadgets we expect to find in this type of vehicle, this BMW's got head-up display, the iDrive with navigation and a power tilt and telescopic wheel. There is also a lane-departure warning system, which activates when it senses that you're drifting out of your lane without signalling; but unlike an audible warning you'll find in systems in other cars, this one just vibrates the steering wheel. Let's just say that if you doze off at the wheel, it probably won't wake you up.
The car benefits from an impeccable fit and finish, with materials that are top-notch; no surprise here. But what really gives the impression that we're getting out money's worth is the way the instruments work; press on the cupholders, for example, and they slide out of the dash in a fluid and cushioned motion.
Competition
The 535i costs $68,900 and my test car is equipped with the Dynamic Drive Package ($3,700), the Premium Package ($3,800), the Technology Package ($4,000) and the 6-speed automatic (no charge), for a total of $80,400. The 535xi with all-wheel drive is offered starting from $71,500.
In comparison:
Acura TL Type-S, 3.5-liter V6, 286 hp, $46,500
Audi A6 3.2 quattro, 3.2-liter V6, 255 hp, $63,900
Cadillac STS V6 Performance, 3.6-liter V6, 302 hp, $70,190
Infiniti M35, 3.5-liter V6, 280 hp, $56,400
Lexus GS 350, 3.5-liter V6, 303 hp, $59,900
Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC, 3.5-liter V6, 268 hp, $74,500
Volvo S80 3.2 AWD, 3.2-liter L6, 235 hp, $54,995
 |
| The quality of materials used is above average. |
Among the mandatory gadgets we expect to find in this type of vehicle, this BMW's got head-up display, the iDrive with navigation and a power tilt and telescopic wheel. There is also a lane-departure warning system, which activates when it senses that you're drifting out of your lane without signalling; but unlike an audible warning you'll find in systems in other cars, this one just vibrates the steering wheel. Let's just say that if you doze off at the wheel, it probably won't wake you up.
The car benefits from an impeccable fit and finish, with materials that are top-notch; no surprise here. But what really gives the impression that we're getting out money's worth is the way the instruments work; press on the cupholders, for example, and they slide out of the dash in a fluid and cushioned motion.
Competition
The 535i costs $68,900 and my test car is equipped with the Dynamic Drive Package ($3,700), the Premium Package ($3,800), the Technology Package ($4,000) and the 6-speed automatic (no charge), for a total of $80,400. The 535xi with all-wheel drive is offered starting from $71,500.
In comparison:
Acura TL Type-S, 3.5-liter V6, 286 hp, $46,500
Audi A6 3.2 quattro, 3.2-liter V6, 255 hp, $63,900
Cadillac STS V6 Performance, 3.6-liter V6, 302 hp, $70,190
Infiniti M35, 3.5-liter V6, 280 hp, $56,400
Lexus GS 350, 3.5-liter V6, 303 hp, $59,900
Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC, 3.5-liter V6, 268 hp, $74,500
Volvo S80 3.2 AWD, 3.2-liter L6, 235 hp, $54,995
 |
| The price tag on our test vehicle was $80,400. |