Vehicle Overview BMW’s 5 Series is the automaker’s next step up in size and price from BMW’s best-selling 3 Series. The mid-level 535i is available as a sedan or wagon with a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive. The 5 Series competes with luxury sedans like the Audi A6, Lexus GS and Acura RL.
New for 2009 There are minimal changes for 2009. There’s a new Google Maps function in navigation-equipped 5 Series that allows drivers to search through Google Maps for restaurants, gas stations or other businesses.
Exterior The 5 Series was given a going-over for 2008, when it received minor front, rear and side styling changes.
Xenon headlights
Adaptive headlights that turn in the direction of the steering wheel
LED turn signals
17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires
Rain-sensing wipers
Optional 18-inch light-alloy wheels with performance run-flat tires
Optional headlight washers
Interior Over the past few model updates, the 5 Series has received larger door pockets and increased storage capacity in the center console.
Simulated leather; real leather is available
Power tilt/telescoping steering wheel
Auxiliary input for MP3 player
Push-button start
Available navigation system with iDrive
Available head-up display projects car’s speed and navigation directions on windshield
Available heated front and rear seats
Available HD radio
Under the Hood The 535i received a new engine in 2008 borrowed from the 3 Series. It makes 300 horsepower for 2009. A higher-performance eight-cylinder engine making 360 hp comes in the 550i, while a 230-hp six-cylinder engine comes in the lower 528i trim.
3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged six-cylinder makes 300 hp and 300 pounds-feet of torque
Six-speed manual transmission
Available six-speed automatic
Rear-wheel drive (535i)
All-wheel drive (535i xDrive)
Safety Safety features include:
Electronic stability system
Antilock brakes
Front, side-impact and side curtain airbags standard
Rear side-impact airbags optional
Lane departure warning system sends vibration through steering wheel if car veers from lane
