Under the Hood

The 528i has a 240-horsepower, 3.0-liter six-cylinder, while the 535i gets a 300-hp, turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder. The 550i has a twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V-8 that makes 400 hp. All three use a new eight-speed automatic transmission; the 535i and 550i also offer a six-speed manual.

BMW's Adaptive Drive system comes with the Sport Package. It includes Active Roll Stabilization, which attempts to actively counter body roll, as well as an adaptive suspension and customizable settings for both the drivetrain and suspension.

Optional Active Steering varies the steering ratio to render easier turning at low speeds and stable handling at high speeds. Toward those ends, the system also alters rear-suspension geometry to effectively steer the rear wheels a few degrees, depending on the situation. Optional adaptive cruise control, meanwhile, now includes full stop-and-go capabilities to manage heavy traffic.

    See also:

    Manual Transmissions: Continuing a BMW tradition
    BMW continues as the only manufacturer to offer manual transmissions in the BMW 5-Series' competitive set, underlining the sporty nature of the car, as well as BMW's commitment to driving enthusia ...

    Switching on/off
    Press the button. On: the LED lights up. Off: the LED goes out. The system can issue warnings at speeds above approx. 40 mph/65 km/h. The state is stored for the remote control currentl ...

    BMW 320i, BMW 318d and BMW 316d
    In spring 2012, BMW will launch three further engines for the new sports sedan series, all of them offering plentiful power and outstanding efficiency. Following the impressive BMW 328i, the top f ...