I just took delivery of the all new 2008 BMW 535i sedan yesterday here at Field's BMW in Winter Park, Florida. (The car had arrived in South Carolina at the end of March, but EPA certification delayed delivery by two weeks.)
This is the new 5 that has the same engine as the 335i, which is the world's first application of twin turbos on an inline 6 engine.
Let me start off by saying that this new 5 is nothing less than astounding. BMW's 5 series with the inline six engine has always been BMW's 'purest' sport sedan. It's hard to imagine BMW improving on it, but this new 535i turbo takes it to yet another level. The torque and acceleration are IMMEDIATE with no turbo lag. Though the engine is rated at 300 horsepower and 300 ft/lbs. of torque, it feels much, MUCH more than that. In fact, many different magazines have estimated the real numbers are closer to 340 ft/lbs. of torque. The immense power coupled with a lighter than V8 inline six makes for some serious acceleration.
But the engine isn't everything. The 535i with the sport package makes for a sensational driving experience. The new 535i has basically the previous 550i's sport package. The rims are the same style. (The 2008 550i gets the new M sport package.) The steering wheel is wrapped thick with leather, the sport seats are superb, the car feels totally balanced, active roll stabilization makes turning corners a breeze, and the steering (non-active) is perfect.
In addition, BMW made some further refinements to the 2008 five series. Some 'minor', but significant changes were done to the exterior. There is an extra crease on the hood of the car, giving a more aggressive appearance. The headlight lenses look slightly different than before. The rear tail lights have multiple red lines instead of just showing all red when braking to give the rear an appearance of greater width. The interior has been upgraded as well. The center console is now wrapped in leather, the window buttons have a softer feel, and pearl gloss chrome inserts are on the radio/temperature controls. Overall, there is a noticeable improvement in the quality of materials as well as a higher level of fit and finish than the previous 5. The innovative new shifter from the X5 is now on the new 5.
Let me confirm Agent 001's article on the new third generation cruise control from BMW. It's called active cruise control stop and go. It works very well and is reliable. Unlike standard active cruise control systems, this all new system from BMW can bring the car to a complete standstill at a stoplight. All that is needed to get the car going again is a gentle tap of the gas pedal. This new cruise control system is ideal for those traffic jams, when you're moving little by little.
Some other nice options I added to complete the amazing driving experience to my 535i was a head up display, night vision, next generation navigation system, and a cold weather package for those chilly days.
The 5 series has been THE BENCHMARK for sport sedans for as long as anyone can remember. The M5 and 550i are typically the sedans of choice for serious performance minded enthusiasts. But I am certain this new 535i will change the minds of many. The 535i embodies BMW's core concepts of the ideal sport sedan. It is much lighter than the M5 and 550i with the inline six. It has as much power as some V8 sedans, and with the lighter weight, has a greater feeling of acceleration. All in all, the new 535i has perfect balance, weight distribution, power, and handling.
One has to drive the new 535i to truly appreciate how damn good it really is.
With the new 535i, BMW has created a winner and raised the bar once again in the competitive midsize luxury segment.
I want to thank my salesman Allen Alexander at Field's BMW for staying on top of my order from day one and delivering my vehicle in a timely manner.