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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    Notes on Emergency Requests
    Do not use the voice activation system to initiate an Emergency Request. In stressful situations, the voice and vocal pitch can change. This can unnecessarily delay the establishment of a teleph ...

    Low tire pressure message
    The small warning lamp lights up yellow and the large warning lamp lights up red. A message appears on the Control Display. In addition, a signal sounds. ▷ There is a flat tire or a ...

    Changing between panels
    After a menu item is selected, e.g., "Radio", a new panel is displayed. Panels can overlap. ▷ Move the controller to the left. The current panel is closed and the previous panel ...