Tuesday, March 30, 2010

BMW 530i 2005: One of the best alternatives in the market means luxury sedans


BMW 5 Series has always represented one of the best options for those seeking a luxury import sedan medium size without sacrificing driving pleasure. The version of our test, the 530i is the middle option within the range, and as such is more balanced.

Redesigned in 2004, the Series 5 continues the renewal aesthetics of BMW 7 series started with the hand of the famous Chris Bangla. After almost 2 years since launching the line does not seem so revolutionary and generally favorable reviews.

Mechanically, the 530i rides on traditional inline 6-cylinder engine of 3 liters, with VANOS variable valve timing system with the yield up to 225 horsepower (the 2006 version of the same engine with double VANOS and yields 255 hp) .

Test Drive
Access inside the BMW 530 and the first thing that strikes us is the quality of the materials used. The leather, wood, controls and plastics inside the cabin are first class and pass an undeniable atmosphere of luxury car. Start the engine and the smoothness of the idle reinforce this sense of luxury and comfort. The interior space is quite large and the seats have multiple regulations that help each driver to find the perfect position. The space behind is enough for 3 passengers, although there are other cars with greater capacity.

The equipment is very comprehensive and the list of options to customize the car to our liking, but always paying extra for every whim. In addition to traditional Sport package (larger wheels, sport suspension, sport seats) and Premium (most luxurious leather and wood), a number of innovative options: active steering, active cruise control, and change SMG

Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG)
With these 3 letters, SMG, BMW introduced the F1 sequential gearbox type. Each new version improves on the previous management and in this case our assessment is rather positive. In a fully automatic use does not change the softness Steptronic, but instead allows for better control in sporty driving with manual operation. Gear changes are quick acceleration, although not as a pure manual. Instead, reductions are dazzling, with the computer revolutionized the engine in each gear down, tip-style heel.

The behavior of the 5 series has always been very good, and to be a 3500-pound car is handled with impressive agility. This is part of the philosophy of the manufacturer BMW, which seeks an optimal weight distribution and engine configuration maintains the front and rear wheel drive for its "feeling" and driving dynamics. Outstanding safety, grip, agility and comfort of travel.

The only point that somehow out of tune in a set so good is the famous iDrive. Basically the system incorporates a central screen features air conditioning, audio, navigation and onboard computer.

Management is via a rotary button in the center console, type "computer mouse" with the aim of simplifying access to the growing multitude of functions in the car. The problem is that the system is difficult to handle, can distract the driver and takes time to become familiar with its operation.

With a base price of $ 47,195, the BMW 530 i is not a cheap car. Price considerations aside, the car is very good, one of the best alternatives in the market means luxury sedans.

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