F10 Test Drive
Had some time today and decided to head down to the local BMW dealership to test drive the new 5. Started off with the 523i Highline. Essentially, a 2.5L engine mated to an 8-speed gear box with 205 bhp. Not too bad actually. Nice interior and comfy overall. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it an 8. It would have scored a 10 if it had that little more power that I was looking for. It was also a bit on the soft side but not as bad as the E60. Best of all, active steering does not come standard.Did a quick hop from the 523i to the 535i. A press on the Start Engine switch and the engine came to life and what a sound it made. The engine note was raw and when an engine sounds like this, you know its going to be good especially if it comes from BMW. The 3L engine comes with a single turbo and twin scroll and its suppose to be more fuel efficient. It also comes with Sports transmission complete with paddle shifters and 3 settings for the dampers and steering. Hand brake release with a pull of the switch and we are off. The car is amazing. I love it. I felt like I was driving Daisy except she was wearing new clothes with a new engine. There is nothing I dislike about the car (except the price, of course) because BMW has finally come through with the new 5 series. It drives the way a 5 series is supposed to be, full of spirit and zest when pushed, yet comfortable, quiet and smooth when driven easy. Its a car that will suit my purpose for long distance drives yet fun enough for Sunday drives.
However, I am not jumping on the wagon yet. History has shown that BMW will unveil a M sports package somewhere down the road. If the new F10 M5 is what its like in the pictures I have seen so far, the kit will filter down to the 535i. Thats the time to get one. For now, driving Miss Daisy is still nice and only the 535i would be a worthy replacement.
posted by gabey @ Sunday, May 30, 2010
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