BMW's 5-Series has New Names, Much Better Performance

BMW has changed the name of its six-cylinderIt is also hard to miss out the new found power
powered midsize, luxury 5-Series cars for 2008 toin the 2008 BMWs. The test 535xi weighs in at
emphasize its larger and more powerful engines.nearly 4,000 pounds which means that this
The old 525i would be change to 528i with 230hpparticular BMW will not feel lightweight or flighty.
while the 530i becomes the 535i with 300 hpIts peak torque is at 300 pounds-feet and can
included on the twin-turbocharged, six-cylindercome as low as 1,400 rpm and can reach up to
535xi Sports Wagon.5,000 rpm which is quite satisfying for any kind of
The German automaker and producer of highdriving.
quality BMW 325 parts has also updated theThe 3-liter, twin-turbocharged, inline six-cylinder
interiors of its 2008 5-Series sedans and wagonswith variable valve timing for both intake and
with the addition of an optional Lane Departureexhaust functions are similar to the one equipped
Warning system that softly vibrates the steeringon the BMW 335i. It was mated in the test 535xi
wheel whenever it detects that the driver isto an updated Steptronic automatic transmission
wandering out of his or her lane. Thethat could be shifter manually. For the 536xi, BMW
manufacturer's suggested retail price for thehas removed the confusing and
5-Series including destination charge will start atdifficult-to-operate Sequential Manual Gearbox.
$45,075 for the base 528i.The power is also increased to its highest ever in
BMW has also assured that buyers of thethe base 528i which has a 3-liter, inline six-cylinder
5-Series sedan will love the image that thewith variable valve timing without the
four-door car conveys. The 2008 5-Series stylingturbocharging. The top range 550i sedan retains its
and design reflects its performance heritage, a360-hp, 4.8 liter V8.
good bit of technology but not lightweight. It isFuel economy is not a highly flaunted
also worth mentioning that would-be BMWcharacteristic of BMW's vehicles but for the test
5-Series owners will receive four years/50,000535xi, it was able to perform within the
miles of free maintenance that would includegovernment's ratings of 17 mpg for city driving
scheduled oil changes and even replacement ifand 25 mpg for highway driving. The handling as
worn out windshield wiper blades. This is in additionexpected of a BMW was remarkable. The car
to the four-year/50,000-mile limited,body was steady and well-controlled in all
bumper-to-bumper warranty.maneuvers even over some busy road surfaces.