2011 BMW 5 Series: First Look

• Competes with: Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Infiniti M
• Looks like: The 5 Series and 3 Series are finally playing for the same team
• Drivetrain: 240-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder (528i); 300-hp, twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder (535i); or 400-hp, twin-turbo V-8 (550i) with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions; rear- or all-wheel drive
• Hits dealerships: 2010

Redesigned versions of the 7 Series sedan and Z4 roadster have left the 5 Series as one of the last relics of BMW’s chiseled, avant-garde styling. (OK, the 6 Series soldiers on, but that one came out of the oven better to start with.) The polarizing styling didn’t stop the 5 from topping its segment in sales — or at least sharing the perch with its perennial archrival, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which is selling at a breakneck pace after a recent redesign of its own.
 
There’s no reason to doubt that the new 5 has similar potential. It’s more aerodynamic than its eyebrow-adorned predecessor — effectively taking on a lot of the styling themes from the 3 Series and 7 Series. Frankly, we’re glad BMW went with this face instead of the 550i Gran Turismo hatchback’s stubby mug.
 
BMW says the 5 and 7 share the same platform. That’s apparent on the inside where the two cars have similar dashboard contours, complete with a massive 10.2-inch navigation display and the backlit Black Panel gauges BMW has adopted of late. Alas, the automatic transmission still uses BMW’s less-than-ergonomic electronic shifter.

2009 BMW 535i xDrive Review

Luxury station wagons make up a peculiar segment, and Cars.com reviewer David Thomas doesn’t see a lot of people eschewing crossovers and SUVs to make any of them a big winner. Having said that, he fell hard for the 2009 BMW 535i luxury wagon. The combination of luxury, utility and performance (not to mention a long list of standard features) gave him every reason to be impressed. What could stop a car buyer from doing the same? Read his full review to find out.

2009 BMW 535 Review

2009 BMW 535i xDrive Sports Wagon Video

Don’t let that mouthful of a model name fool you: The BMW 535 xDrive Sports Wagon is pretty much the crème de la crème when it comes to wagons. Cars.com reviewer David Thomas shows you why in this video review by taking a look at its performance and comfort, plus tech features galore. The one drawback? Wait until he tells you the price.