Tuesday, September 25, 2007

2008 BMW 5 Series Sedan Review

The 2008 BMW 5 Series Sedan is a group of 4-door sports sedans which come in the following trim levels: 528i, 528xi, 535i, 353xi, 550i. The BMW 328i is powered by a 3.0 liter, 230 hp, I-6 with 6-speed manual or automatic RWD. Add AWD for the 328xi, and a twin turbo to the 3.0 liter, 300 hp I-6 plus RWD for the 535i. Add AWD and you have the 535xi, while the 550i weighs in with a 4.8 liter 360 hp V8.

The power credentials are only the start for this squadron of land raptors, with key features being added to make each model resonate at a different quantum level. The 6-speed Steptronic automatic offers three driving modes, each one being suited for a particular driving style and traffic condition. "Drive" is perfect for city, stop and go traffic when a fully automatic transmission reduces the tedium of repeated up and down shifting. "Sport" level automatic offers the driver control and choice for more active driving. "Steptronic" mode allows manual shifting without the need for a clutch.

The interior of the 5 Series sedans are perfectly matched to the temperament of each model, with cowhide surfaces on the console plus chrome accented controls, making each 5 Series sedan more luxurious than ever. The exteriors of the 5 Series are more aggressive with a high beltline that makes the vehicles appear more tough and mean. The cant rail runs seamlessly from the "A" pillar back to find support at the rear cheater and C pillar producing a seductively sweeping curve.

Whether you prefer an all wheel drive option, like XDrive, or rear-wheel drive, the suspension and steering characteristics of the 5 Series are a perfect match of luxury and performance. There are innumerable driving and weather conditions where Dynamic Stability Control can come into play and help you steer clear of danger due to loss of traction. Whether you encounter slippery areas on the road, changeable weather, or unpredictable traffic, chances are Dynamic Stability Control will negotiate the hazard safely.

The engineers at BMW added a few new talents to the 2008 BMW 5 Series, including Night Vision, for all of your covert operations. Driving at night becomes more comfortable and worry-free with the ability to see objects that are otherwise hidden by darkness. Using an infrared-sensing camera in the front of the vehicle, hazards and other objects are easily seen and identified.

The 2008 BMW 5 Series offers a full compliment of airbags in its passenger safety system, now augmented by the new Head Protection System, which adds protection to the head from a side impact accident. Fuel economy is worthy of mention as the Series 5 Sedans are impressive for a luxury line of vehicles at 17-18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. When it comes to uniting performance and luxury, the 2008 BMW 5 Series sedans are in a class by themselves.

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