Vehicle Overview

Redesigned for 2011, the sixth-generation 5 Series offers a longer wheelbase, better fuel efficiency and more conventional styling than its predecessor. Available in 528i, 535i and 550i trims, the 5 Series sports a new twin-turbo V-8 (550i) and single-turbo six-cylinder (535i), with eight-speed automatics available across the board. Competitors include the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and Infiniti M.

High-tech options include BMW's Adaptive Drive system, a self-parking feature and lane departure and blind spot warning systems. When it hits dealerships, the 5 Series will come as a rear-wheel-drive sedan; expect all-wheel-drive variants and eventually a high-performance M5 to follow.

For 2010, BMW introduced the 5 Series Gran Turismo hatchback.

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    Locking separately
    The trunk lid can be locked separately with the switch in the front passenger glove compartment. ▷ Trunk lid secured, arrow 1. ▷ Trunk lid not secured, arrow 2. Slide the switch int ...

    Camera
    Rain, dirt, snow, or ice can impair camera operation. The camera is automatically heated when the external temperatures are low. The camera is automatically cleaned together with the headlamps ...

    Cargo
    In wagon form, the 5 Series is quite utilitarian. There are a lot of convenient features I appreciated during my time with it. Chief among them was the cargo cover that raised and lowered when you ...