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.

    See also:

    Malfunction
    In the event of a malfunction, the steering wheel must be turned further, while the vehicle responds more sensitively to steering wheel movements in the higher speed range. The stability-enhanc ...

    Features & Long-Term Ownership
    Starting at $38,000, the X3 comes standard with vinyl upholstery, power front seats, automatic climate control and a dual-pane panoramic moonroof. Options include leather, heated front and rear se ...

    The concept
    The concept Two radar sensors below the rear bumper monitor the area behind and next to the vehicle at speeds above approx. 30 mph/50 km/h. The system indicates whether there are vehicles ...