2009 BMW 5 Series 528i xDrive1
Body Details
Engine Details
Vehicle Options
Written Reviews (4)
Written Review
Value Writeup
The 5-Series models are athletic and surefooted sport sedans (and wagons) that offer a surprising level of comfort inside. Technology features are also a strong point in the 5-Series, with performance and safety standouts like Active Steering, Active Roll Stabilization and a night vision system. The 535xi Sport Wagon is a very fashionable and fun-to-drive alternative to a sport-utility vehicle.
Chrome Reviews on Value Writeup
Written Review
Model News
For 2009, audio systems have been upgraded and can now accept devices via USB interface. Also, Sirius Satellite Radio is now included across the line, but a first-aid kit is no longer standard. Two new 17-inch wheel designs are being introduced.
Chrome Reviews on Model News
Written Review
Pros
Handling; ride quality; refined powertrains; dazzling high-tech features
Chrome Reviews on Pros
Written Review
Model Highlights
The 5-Series is offered with three different engines-designated by the models 528, 535 and 550. A 230-horsepower, 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine is standard on 528 models; 535 models get a 300-horsepower, turbocharged 3.0-liter six. A 4.8-liter V-8 engine making 360 horsepower comes in the 550. The 528 models are offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, as are the 535 models, while the 550 is only available with rear-wheel drive. Each of the models comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic shift command is optional.
The M5 model resides at the top of BMW's performance lineup. It's powered by a monster of a V10 engine that makes 500 hp and 383 lb-feet of torque. Power gets to the road via a 7-speed sequential transmission. The M5 utilizes a specially tuned sport suspension and unique cross-drilled disc brakes. M5-specific 19" wheels all around, a special spoiler and air diffuser also distinguish the M5 sedan from the rest of the 5-Series.
The most popular 5-Series configuration is four-door sedan, but a five-door wagon is also available, only in all-wheel-drive 535xi trim. The wagon comes with a cargo cover, cargo net, and under-floor storage compartment.
The 5-Series models have a roomy interior, with front seats that are excellent for long trips, enough back seat space for adults and, in sedans, a very roomy trunk. The instrument panel looks deceivingly simple, with a streamlined, horizontal design, but there's an underlying complexity in the iDrive controller that's needed to access some functions.
Though the standard suspension setup is already quite firm, rear-wheel-drive models can be specified with a Sport Package, which brings a tighter Sport suspension, grippy multi-contour front seats, and upgraded wheels and run-flat performance tires. The package also includes Active Roll Stabilization, a system that simulates much stiffer anti-roll bars with an electronically controlled pump system. Another performance option is Active Steering, which actually helps steer the car back toward a more stable situation when the electronic stability control intervenes.
The 5-Series comes with front side airbags and head-protecting airbags for front and rear outboard occupants. Rear side airbags, a still-rare feature, are optional.
Compared to other mid-size sport sedans, the 5-Series is a technology powerhouse. To help increase alertness and safety, there's a lane departure warning system; a night vision system is available, which might help spot and avoid animals up ahead after dark; and BMW's active cruise control is one of the most advanced offered, capable of stopping and restarting in traffic. Other unusual options include a head-up display, high-definition (HD) radio and a high-beam assist feature.
Choose the service you'd like to bookmark to.