OpenRoad Driver Volume 14 Issue 1 | Page 61

Volume 14 Issue 1 » 61 2017 BMW 5 Series » One of BMW’s best-selling vehicles is the 5 Series midsize sedan. In production since 1972, the 5 Series has been well regarded by many as the quintessential executive sports sedan. All-new for 2017, the 5 Series has lost a significant amount of weight despite its increased length, width and height. BMW has fully loaded the car with its latest technology, the most impressive of which is a remote control automatic parking system. The new 5 feels more predictable and is easier to maneuver, thanks in part to its new aluminium suspension. Opt for the M Sport package with its upsized 19-inch wheels, lowered ride height, M sport brakes, and there is much more liveliness to the new 5’s already excellent dynamics. Inside, the posh interior borrows much from its big brother flagship 7 Series. There are 16-way power-adjustable and massage-capable front seats, available Gesture Control, open-pore wood, 3D surround view, and a massive 10.3-inch infotainment system powered by iDrive 6.0. There is even an ambient air package to pipe in your choice of several fragrances into the cabin. There are several engine choices available: BMW’s new 248 hp turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine powering the 530i, a 3.0L turbocharged 335 hp inline-six cylinder engine powering the 540i, and finally a 4.4L twin-turbo 462 hp V8 powering the M550i. All models are equipped with BMW’s excellent eight-speed transmission while xDrive all-wheel-drive is standard equipment on the 530i, 540i, and M550i.