BMW makes two of the most important cars on the planet and other companies try and emulate their driving dynamics and power by benchmarking against BMW. The BMW 3 series is the clear leader in the compact luxury class and the 5 Series is often the benchmark on the mid sized class. With that in mind, this all-new 5 Series sedan, the 5th generation of this iconic car, is very important for BMW and for all other luxury brands. Is this car still the top dog- the go to car for drivers that want some fun and a lot of luxury when they head out on the open road? Let's see.
The Skin
I was a huge critic of the previous sedan, especially the bland styling and goofy rear design. This new car is much more cohesive and classy. The accent lines down the side, the sophisticated rear lights and prominent front grill remind me of the 5 Series last sold in 2003. It might be more cohesive but it lacks much differentiation from the 7 Series. This new sedan looks so much like the latest 7 Series, in fact it is built off a shortened 7 Series platform. The 7 Series is a big car and this new 5 has grown too. It is longer, the wheelbase has been extended by 80mm and weight is up too. The new 5 Series has a longer wheelbase than the 7 Series did just 10 years ago. Is bigger better? We'll see. The 5 series is sold as a 528, 535 or 550. All can be equipped with either RWD or AWD and prices range from $54,000 all the way past $75,000 depending on options.
Robin Rickards 2:49 PM on December 21, 2011 I know that this may not be your focus but I am at my wit's end of what to do next. My vehicle has been back to the dealer more than 7 times since it was purchased, always with the 'check engine' light coming on. Inevitably within 1-2 weeks, the problem recurs and I start again. The local dealer has 'punted' the problem to head office who, I believe are trying to 'punt' it back to the dealer. Any suggestions? Advocates? Media contacts? Ombudsman for this type of problem?
Thanks for your time.
'Driving' publication in the Vancouver Sun is always interesting. Could you do an article on the Tesla Model 'S' coming out in 2012 (2013 in Canada?)?
Motormouth.ca says: 6:13 PM on December 22, 2011 I know for a fact that BMW has a specialist come by the dealerships on a regular basis to try to fix the hard to correct problems. Contact your advisor and ask when that person is coming in again. Also, leave the car with them for a few days before and ask the advisor to drive the car before the expert arrives to try and get the problem to happen while in their possession. You can bet there will be a Tesla review when the car arrives.
BRUCE CHANDLER 10:02 AM on November 28, 2011 ZACH, I WANT TO REPLACE THE RUN FLAT TIRES ON MY CAR AS THEY ARE VERY NOISY AND HARD RIDING WITH A SET OF CONVENTIONAL TIRES ....ANY SUGESTIONS OR THOUGHTS WOULD BE APPRECIATED. THX.
Motormouth.ca says: 8:48 PM on November 28, 2011 Remember that you will have to place a spare tire or hideaway tire in the trunk, should you get a flat. As for which tires to buy, there will be many different types available but they will be less harsh.
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