BMW 535i and 550i
T he horrible reign of the wimpy kidney grille and smeared eyeliner headlight design of the current 5 Series will mercifully come to an end with the release of the 2011 BMW 5 Series.
The proportions of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are defined in archetypal BMW style by the long wheelbase and hood, short overhangs, aft-set greenhouse, and the coupe-like flowing roofline. The slightly wedge-like shape of the body creates a sporty, forward-moving character. The fresh interpretation of BMW’s signature Hofmeister kink at the bottom of the C-pillar further emphasizes the dynamic looks of the car in profile.
Design features emblematic of BMW are to be found at the front with its kidney grille inclined slightly forward, in the stylish and elegant side view of the car, and at the muscular rear end.
The new 5 Series will be offered in the United States with a choice of three gasoline engines. At its introduction, the new 5 Series will be available as a 535i and 550i. The 528i and xDrive all-wheel drive variants of all three models will arrive later in the year.
The 550i is powered by BMW’s 4.4-liter, 400-hp twin turbocharged V-8 engine. Compared to BMW’s earlier, normally aspirated V-8, displacement is reduced from 4.8 to 4.4 liters, and incorporates twin turbochargers with High Precision direct injection. In quantitative terms, the new engine delivers its 400 hp over a range from 5500 to 6400 rpm.
Maximum torque is 450 lb-ft, available over the extremely broad range of 1800 to 4500 rpm. Aside from the dramatic thrust that drivers will notice subjectively, the objective data are dramatic too: 0-60 mph is estimated to be in just 5.0 seconds (preliminary) and a top speed when equipped with the Sport Package of 150 mph. For models without Sport Package the maximum speed is limited to 130 mph.
Click the ARTICLE tab above for more info. PHOTOS and VIDEOS at right.
2011 BMW 5 Series
The expressive front end of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan presents the sporting character of the car. The upright BMW kidney grille - even appearing from some angles to lean forward - symbolizes the forward-pushing motion of the sedan and, together with the powerfully flared wheel arches, gives the front end of the car strong charismatic presence.
At launch, the new BMW 5 Series Sedan will be available with one V-8 and one inline-6 gasoline engine. The top-of-the-range BMW 550i arrives with BMW’s “reverse-flow” V-8 engine featuring twin turbochargers and High Precision direct injection for maximum output of 400 hp. The new inline-6 of the BMW 535i features a single twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision direct injection, and, for the first time, VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology. It delivers a maximum output of 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. The 535i and 550i will be available with a choice of 6-speed manual transmission, BMW’s new 8-speed automatic transmission, or new “Sport Automatic” 8-speed.
Later, the BMW 528i will debut with a 240 hp inline-6 featuring lightweight magnesium-aluminum construction and VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology for efficiency and unparalleled responsiveness.
The cockpit is inclined towards the driver at an angle of approximately 7o and the asymmetrically designed center console likewise emphasizes this clear orientation to the driver.
The horizontal lines of the instrument panel accentuate the feeling of space.
As in all BMWs, well-researched ergonomics allow for optimum operation of driving controls and other functions. All displays, knobs and buttons serving comfort functions are situated centrally for use by the driver and front passengers; controls for the driver’s use only are to the left of the steering wheel, on or near the steering wheel, or on the front center console. The steering wheel has power tilt and telescopic adjustment and tilt-away for exit and entry; and of course both front seats come standard with 10-way power adjustment including head-restraint height.
The new 5 Series will be offered in the United States with a choice of three gasoline engines. At its introduction, the new 5 Series will be available as a 535i and 550i. The 528i and xDrive all-wheel drive variants of all three models will arrive later in the year.
The 550i is powered by BMW’s stunning 4.4-liter, 400-hp twin turbocharged V-8 engine. Compared to BMW’s earlier, normally aspirated V-8, displacement is reduced from 4.8 to 4.4 liters, and incorporates twin turbochargers with High Precision direct injection. In quantitative terms, the new engine delivers its 400 hp over a range from 5500 to 6400 rpm. Maximum torque is 450 lb-ft, available over the extremely broad range of 1800 to 4500 rpm. Aside from the dramatic thrust that drivers will notice subjectively, the objective data are dramatic too: 0-60 mph is estimated to be in just 5.0 seconds (preliminary) and a top speed when equipped with the Sport Package of 150 mph.
Save hundreds on your auto insurance. It's easy. It's free. And there's no obligation. Get a free quote now!
Get a Free Quote.
The best deals in performance auto parts. Plus save money on replacements parts and auto body parts.
FREE SHIPPING on orders over $99
We're loaded with parts and accessories. Save up to 40% off List price. Free shipping with no minimum purchase (restrictions apply). See site for details!
Up to 40% Off List
Huge selection of quality, collectible diecast models. Classic cars. Muscle cars. Racing. Old brands. Find your favorites! Great deals. Wholesale diecast car models. Shop now!
Classics. Muscle. Racing & More. Rare Models!
Buy one night, get one night FREE at Holiday Inn with your Enterprise car rental. Great Cars. Low Rates. Free Pick-up.
We'll Pick You Up! Low Rates
Shop by your vehicle's make, model and year to find exactly the right parts and accessories. Plus, we're making a commitment to you with our industry-leading 1-year guarantee on more than 6 million parts and accessories. Shop now!
New, improved, better than ever website!
Car Audio Systems. GPS Navigation. Mobile Video Systems. Radar Detectors. Handy online tool to learn "What Fits Your Vehicle." All Major Brands. Shop Now!
Free shipping on thousands of electronics!