Caiscais, Portugal. Huge waves rise in the air and clash against the rocks in a strangely silent way. That’s because the vault-like interior of the all-new 2011 BMW 5-Series is so effectively sealed that you barely hear a peep coming from the outside, even from the roaring engine. On the other hand, this sensible yet justifiably sporty premium sedan lets you feel every thrill behind the wheel with wonderful immediacy and accuracy.
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| This much is certain: the 5-Series is vastly improved and more than ever a threat to other luxury sports sedans. |
The sixth generation of the Bavarian family hero fulfills its mission — to deliver even more fun on the open road while offering a unique combination of safety and technology that far exceeds usual expectations.
Not only did BMW choose to totally revamp the controversial bodywork of the previous generation, but designers also developed and perfected a number of advanced technologies, ensuring that the 5-Series stays at the top of the premium midsize sedan game.
Almost like spring
The automaker introduced its new model to auto journalists from all over the world on the beautiful winding roads of the Portuguese coast. It almost felt like spring already. Amid this breathtaking scenery encompassing the legendary Estoril Circuit, we had the opportunity to put the 535i to the test.
At first glance, the car looks downright intimidating, what with a plethora of high-tech systems and devices that you need to get familiar with before taking off the first time. Obviously, it all starts with the (in)famous iDrive interface, which BMW insists has been significantly revised and improved. There’s still a single rotary dial in the middle of the console, but the manipulation is more intuitive now, at least with regards to basic controls and settings. Unfortunately, the more intricate ones like programming the split screen required the brains of two seasoned journalists (including yours truly) as well as two company reps.
Of course, the array of technologies extends way beyond the iDrive system. The 2011 5-Series includes a rearview camera with top and side views, Lane Departure Warning plus an available Parking Assistant which allows the car to park all by itself. Then there’s Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, radar-based adaptive cruise control and a fully-customizable head-up display. We’re talking about safety features here, but there’s even more going on under the hood.
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| At first glance, the car looks downright intimidating, what with a plethora of high-tech systems and devices that you need to get familiar with before taking off the first time. |
You want state-of-the-art stuff? Witness the incredible Power Turbo inline-6 engine with High Precision (direct) Injection and Valvetronic. Gone is the twin-turbo mill we all knew and loved; however, it was replaced by a new 3.0-litre engine using a single twin-scroll turbocharger. As a result, you no longer feel any turbo lag. I must say, though, that the powerplant did not feel quite as smooth as its predecessor from the get-go. Incidentally, the upgraded Valvetronic fuel management system increases efficiency.
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| Under the hood, the incredible Power Turbo inline-6 engine with High Precision (direct) Injection and Valvetronic. |
BMW also added Integral Active Steering to the mix. Up to 37 mph, the rear wheels slightly turn in the opposite direction from the front wheels to quicken low-speed steering response and shrink the turning circle. Above 37 mph, they turn in the same direction as the front wheels to enhance handling. Meanwhile, electric-assist power steering is standard.
Ooops, there’s a corner!
On the road, the 535i behaves flawlessly. My tester featured the optional Driving Dynamics Control system, which works in Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ modes, toying with suspension calibration, throttle response, shift timing and steering assistance. In Comfort or Normal mode, the car cruised down the small Portuguese byroads without ever flinching.
The all-new 8-speed autobox shifts with the utmost swiftness and seamlessness, molding its action on the driving mode selected. Two paddle shifters behind the steering wheel (optional) allow manual operation. Personally, though, I could never be as quick as the electronic brain of this car.
On a challenging track like Estoril, the 535i never broke a sweat in either Sport or Sport+ mode (the latter makes the DSC stability control switch automatically to looser drift thresholds). Pushed to the limit (with the help of a fellow writer/race car driver), the machine kept its cool and balance. It’s not a race car, obviously, but it still handles easily and pleasantly like a true driver’s car.
I did feel the 535i understeer a bit at times, which is normal, but the aforementioned Active Steering further kept everything under control. In fact, even I could impersonate Jacques Villeneuve, who happened to win the last Portuguese Grand Prix ever, by the way.
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| On a challenging track like Estoril, the 535i never broke a sweat in either Sport or Sport+ mode. |
Inspired by the 7-Series
The new design of the 5-Series goes back to Bimmer essentials. The fusion of heritage and modern-day styling is so cleverly executed this time around that you will no longer hear the rising outcry against previous Bangle-designed models.
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| The fusion of heritage and modern-day styling is so cleverly executed this time. |
Similar to most rivals, the German sedan gets a little larger for 2011. The few extra millimeters in width essentially come from the extended rear track which improves stability. As for length, the car grew by some 40 millimetres. Overall, the more balanced and athletic stance puts the wheels closer to the corners, reducing overhangs and increasing wheelbase by 80 millimeters.
The 5-Series takes a whole new styling direction, starting with a front hood defined by sharper lines to give the impression that a monster engine sits right underneath. The headlight clusters stretch well into the front fenders, while the classic double-kidney grille remains a staple. Altogether, the new model could almost pass as the larger 7-Series sedan, yet it looks sportier and more assertive than ever.
Inside, designers brought a few themes over from other BMW products while creating a true driver-oriented cockpit.
What about Canada?
The all-new 2011 BMW 5-Series is scheduled to land in Canada this June but only in 550i (8 cylinders) and 535i trim. The entry-level 528i and AWD variants will arrive at a later date.
This much is certain: the 5-Series is vastly improved and more than ever a threat to other luxury sports sedans. No longer soft(ish), as some purists used to lament, it fully capitalizes on its heritage and brings the fun back to a segment in which BMW had previously shown some slack.
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| The all-new 2011 BMW 5-Series is scheduled to land in Canada this June. |
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