2004 BMW 545i SMG Road Test

Now that I've mentioned the upgraded audio, let me vent about an issue with the sensational sounding stock unit. In a

Regardless of price, few vehicles are capable of matching the 545i's performance thresholds, build quality and cutting-edge technology. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

prestigious, expensive vehicle such as the 545i, it's completely unacceptable to require additional cash just for the privilege of stacking 6-CD's into a glove-box mounted CD player. My heavily optioned test car could only store a single CD at a time; sometimes it's the little things that irritate the most.

In Canada the base 545i strays from the dealer's lot for $77,700. Fully loaded, it'll require $101,635 for removal privileges. In the US expect to part with $55,800 for starters and $82,082 for all the 545i fixings. Regardless of price, few vehicles are capable of matching the 545i's performance thresholds, build quality and cutting-edge technology. But for the few fortunate enough to view the world through the windscreen of a 2004 545i, seeing beyond the horizon just got a whole lot clearer.

Specifications (545i):

• Price Range (MSRP): $77,700 - $101,635
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, RWD
• Base Engine: 325-hp, 330 lb-ft of torque, 4.4-L, 32-valve, DOHC V8
• Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt 6-spd auto with manual mode, 6-spd SMG)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Curb Weight: 1,725 kg (3,803 lbs)
• Acceleration (0 - 100 km/h): 6 seconds
• Top Speed: 240 km/h (150 mph)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 396 L (14.0 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 14.4 / 8.6 L/100 km (16 / 27 mpg)
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
• Direct Competitors: Audi A6, Cadillac Seville STS, Chrysler 300C, Infiniti M45, Jaguar S-Type 4.0, Lexus GS 430, Lincoln LS V8, Mercedes-Benz E500, Volkswagen Passat W8, Volvo S80
• Web Site: www.bmw.ca

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.