BMW's 5-Series has been the benchmark for many carmakers looking to grab a share of the luxury sport sedan segment. With very impressive road manners and luxurious amenities, the 5-Series has long been at the top of the list in its category. And now, after a seven-year run, and stiff competition, BMW has decided to redesign their 5-Series. The 2004 5-Series, as expected, features much more than a new look. First, the new 5 is roomier. Riding on a wheelbase 2.3 inches longer than before, these new sedans are 2.6 in. longer and 1.8 in. wider than their predecessors, as well as 1.3 in. taller. These dimensional gains result in greater rear seating space and comfort; entry into the rear seating compartment is easier, and there's much more trunk space. While bigger, the new 5 retains a midsize look, and through extensive use of aluminum the 5-Series affords more space without crashing the scale. The new 5-Series consists of three models, each powered by its specific engine. * The 525i Sedan ($39,995 including destination charge) continues with the engine of its predecessor, the responsive and fuel-efficient 2.5-liter, 184-horsepower inline 6-cylinder unit. * The 530i Sedan ($44,995) offers a step up in 6-cylinder power (3.0 liters, 225 hp) and additional standard equipment over the 525i. * And the 545i Sedan ($55,695) derives its new model designation from the remarkable Valvetronic engine first introduced in the 7 Series: a 4.4-liter V-8 delivering 325 hp. Each model is available with a choice of three transmissions, all 6-speeds: manual, STEPTRONIC automatic and a Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). The SMG is similar to that offered in the Z4 Series, rather than the BMW M version with the more elaborate Drivelogic shift-control system. With the SMG, there is no clutch pedal; the driver selects the desired mode (N, R, D) with a console-mounted selector lever, and can execute manual shifts via that lever or two "paddles" on the steering wheel. The fundamental advantages of SMG are that it fully preserves the performance of a manual transmission, entails little penalty in fuel economy, and facilitates both automated and very sporty driving. Our 5-Series tester was a 530i model with the 6-speed manual gearbox. A manual transmission provides full control for those that prefer to have it. Providing the power for our 530i tester was a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. While it delivered adequate acceleration when we were solo, it seemed a bit underpowered with four large adults aboard. If you crave power, you'll undoubtedly want the 545i. Regardless of which 5-Series you opt for, this is a car that has to be driven to truly appreciate it. The new 5-Series sedan remains true to its tradition with remarkably crisp steering, agile handling, and beefy brakes. On the road, and especially at highway speeds, the 5-Series sedan is quite impressive. It feels much more like a sports car than a cushy luxurious sedan. And we should point out that our 530i tester included the Sport Package ($3,300) which adds a sport suspension, active steering, active roll stabilization, special alloy wheels, run-flat tires and sport seats. There were many other options added to our tester, but one item that comes standard in every 5-Series is the iDrive system. BMW says it's a simplified version of the iDrive system first seen in the 7 Series. The iDrive provides four menu directions: Communication, Navigation, Entertainment and Climate, where "Navigation" doesn't necessarily mean the (optional) GPS Navigation system. As in the 7 Series, there is an aluminum controller knob on the console, accessible by the driver and front passenger. We're not going to pull any punches here, my co-tester and I did not like rotating a knob to select items on a screen while we're busy driving. A touch screen would have been preferred to access and select the various controls. On a high note, the 5's cabin is well appointed and provides a tranquil environment for its passengers. The list of standard amenities is quite long. Overall, we like the new 5. But don't take our word; you really ought to take one for a drive, a long pleasing drive. With impressive road manners and luxurious amenities, the 5-Series has long been at the top of its class.
2004 BMW 530i
Engine: 3.0-liter (225 hp) I6
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Drive Type: RWD
Fuel Economy: 20 city/30 highway
Base Price: $44,300
As Tested: $56,145 (including $695 for destination)
Website: www.bmwusa.com |
