Exterior

Sharing its platform with the recently redesigned 7 Series, the 5 Series' wheelbase has been extended about 3 inches. It now leads its class, BMW says. Up front, the car's signature kidney grilles sit lower and lean more forward. The outgoing 5 Series' eyebrow-laced headlights have been toned down; the eyebrows are still there, but they don't extend as far back toward the front wheels. Adaptive xenon headlights are optional on the 528i and standard elsewhere. The taillights employ three rows of LED lights, and BMW's Adaptive Brake Lights illuminate a larger section under hard braking.

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels go on the 528i; the 535i and 550i get 18s. A Sport Package adds larger wheels and summer performance tires.

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    Exterior care
    Washing the vehicle Especially during the winter months, ensure that the vehicle is washed more frequently. Heavy soiling and road salt can lead to vehicle damage. After washing the vehicle, app ...

    Reprogramming individual buttons
    1. Switch on the ignition. 2. Press and hold the interior rearview mirror button to be programmed. 3. As soon as the interior rearview mirror LED starts flashing slowly, hold the hand-held transm ...

    Built for Curves
    Like BMW's cars, the X3 offers top-notch road manners. Some may find the steering wheel too difficult to turn, but its heavy rotations render spot-on directional control. The meaty steering wheel ...