Performance BMW Model Reviews - Reviews on BMW Vehicles, Raleigh, NC

2008 BMW 5 Series

Overview

2008 BMW 5 Series is a comfortable midsize luxury sedan that is having every quality of a true sports car. Introduced in 2004 the BMW 5 Series receives important updates for 2008. With plenty of standard and optional features, the 5 Series is an ideal combination of sporty style, power, performance, comfort and ample interior space. The 2008 5 Series is a 4-door and 5-passenger luxury sedan, sports sedan and wagon available in 6 trims, ranging from the 528i Sedan to the super performer 550i Sedan. With the new engine line up the 5 Series performs even more aggressively.

Engine and performance

For 2008 the BMW 5 Series' engine lineup is even more powerful than ever. The 528i is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-6 generating 230 hp and 200 pound-feet of torque. The 535i has an impressive new twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter inline-6, churning 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The 550i is the power performer with a standard 4.8-liter, V8, 360-horsepower producing 360 lb-ft of torque. This engine prompts the 550i from zero to 60 mph in an amazing 5.6 seconds. All three engines come standard with a six-speed manual, while a six-speed automatic is a no-cost option. BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is optional on 528xi and 535xi, but standard on the 535xi wagon.

Sophisticated and Graceful body

The 5 Series looks stylish and graceful outside. Refined design and new highlights transformed the 5 Series as a perfect blend of sporty character, elegance and classy style. The headlights look stylish with their clear glass technology, transparent glass panels and chrome surrounds. The 528i and 528xi come standard with 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, automatic headlights and wipers. The 535i and 535xi have xenon headlamps and lumbar support and the 535xi wagon come with a panoramic sunroof and a power tailgate. The 550i is equipped with parking assist and auto-dimming mirrors. The 5 Series comes with lots of options to choose from.

Luxurious Cockpit

BMW is setting a perfect example of Luxury with the lavishly designed cockpit of the 5 Series. For 2008 the interior is updated with some key changes. Improved control comfort, new design and above all the sophisticated materials give the cockpit of the new BMW 5 Series a high standard of quality that delivers ultimate driving pleasure. The iDrive is user-friendly but at the same time confusing. The sedan has 14 cubic feet of trunk capacity while the wagon has a 34-cubic-foot cargo area. Pearl Gloss Chrome, the wonderful rubber finish on the controls for smooth handlingautomatic climate control, BMW Assist telematics, iDrive control interface and leather upholstery, all add to the elegance of the 5 Series cockpit.

Safety

The new 5 Series is equipped with latest safety features. Stability control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags and front-and-rear side-curtain airbags are standard in all trims of 5 Series. All Wheel Drive models come standard with Hill-Start Assist and Hill Descent Control. 2008 BMW 5 Series earned a top score of "Good" for its protection of occupants in frontal-offset crashes from the IIHS.

Driving impressions

The 2008 BMW 5 Series is a true driver�s car capable of handling aggressive driving on any kind of road. The standard suspension tuning gives the 5 Series ample potential even in the corners. With excellent handling and remarkable acceleration the BMW 5 Series delivers smooth riding with perfect balance and remains rock solid even at top speed. The 550i is outrageous with its V8 engine and a serious threat to many sports sedans.