2002 BMW 5 Series

The handsome BMW 540i is widely considered the top sports sedan largely because its engine is a dream and it has a virtually perfect balance between performance and comfort. The 540i probably would be ranked No. 1 even if it didn't have the revered BMW nameplate, which enhances resale value and takes some of the edge off the $51,200-$53,900 base prices. (There's also a $53,600 540i station wagon with nearly the same size and performance as the sedan.) Watch those options because they can quickly run up the price. For instance, a $1,300 gas guzzler tax and extras including an $1,800 navigation system, $1,200 premium sound system and $600 cold weather package helped raise the cost of my test 540i sedan from $53,900 to $58,800.

However, all 5-Series models are well equipped. The 5-Series line includes the less costly, lower-horsepower 525i and 530i models, besides the rather outrageous $69,900 BMW M5 model with its 394-horsepower V-8. BMW is the top-selling luxury nameplate in America, and the 540i has all the comfort and convenience features expected in a $50,000-plus luxury car. Moreover, you get thoughtful features not found in other high-line models; for instance, twin lights for each visor-mounted vanity mirror are on the interior roof near the visors; normally, luxury cars put such lights on the visors too close to the mirrors. Despite all its uptown features, the 540i with a six-speed manual gearbox--instead of an available five-speed automatic transmission--is a genuine sports sedan. Order the $53,900 manual-transmission model, which actually costs more than the automatic transmission version, and you get a sport suspension, wider 17-inch wheels and tires and power front sport seats. The suspension and tires enhance the 540i's already superb handling, and the seats hold occupants more securely during the spirited driving that the car encourages.

Still, the sport suspension's firmer settings didn't affect the comfortably supple ride delivered by the other 540i version, which isn't as much fun despite its responsive five-speed automatic transmission. The 540i's 4.4-liter, dual-overhead-camshaft V-8 produces 290 horsepower--up 8 from last year. The engine doesn't seem as if it could be smoother or more responsive. It whisks the car to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds with the manual gearbox and allows it to loaf at 2,000 rpm in sixth gear at 70 mph. The automatic-transmission model is virtually as fast.

Estimated fuel economy figures are acceptable for an approximately 3,500-pound high-performance car: 15 mpg in the city and 23 on the highway with the manual and 18 and 24 with the automatic. However, I got 26 mpg on the highway by leaving the 540i in sixth overdrive gear most of the time. The docile engine pulls smoothly from 30 mph in sixth gear in the city, but third or fourth gear are needed for quick moves on expressways, where the automatic transmission makes the car more relaxing to drive. Automakers have tried to copy the 540i's quick, communicative steering, but most haven't come close. It gives a driver confidence to drive the car hard while keeping it well under control.

Even rough, bumpy curving roads don't cause this BMW to miss a beat. The 540i manual gearbox shifts well--as long as a driver pays attention when changing gears; as with all manual-transmission BMWs, the shifter doesn't have a precise gate that lets you confidently know that you're entering the correct gear; let your mind wander and you can easily find yourself moving into the wrong gear. For instance, it's easy to engage reverse gear instead of first gear.

The clutch has a long throw that calls for considerable leg extension when depressing it. The brake pedal initially seems too soft, but has a nice progressive action. Stopping power is impressive, and the all-disc brakes have an anti-lock system. Other safety features include an anti-skid system, front side air bags and front head-protecting tubular air bags. Rear torso and head-protecting side air bags are optional. There's also a front/rear obstacle detection system to warn against, say, running over a child's bicycle when in reverse gear. Doors open wide for easy entry to the nicely designed interior, which has room for four tall adults.

A power tilt-telescopic steering wheel helps allow drivers to find a comfortable posture. Gauges are easily read, but radio controls are small. All doors have storage pocket, and the rear door pockets even contain ashtrays. The back seat has a big pull-down center armrest, which is just as well because that seat area is too stiff for comfort. The large, nicely shaped trunk has a low opening for easy loading and a lid that moves on smooth hydraulic struts. The hood also has struts and opens to reveal huge engine cylinder heads and easily reached fluid filler areas. While it's basic design is getting rather old, the 540i is generally tough to fault.

BMW 540i Sedan

Prices:
$51,200-$53,900
Likes:
Superb engine. Athletic handling. Smooth ride. Roomy. Slick styling.
Dislikes:
Manual shifter needs improvement. Long clutch throw. Small radio controls.