5 Series Pib 2006

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20065 Series6-cylinder models

Product Information

2006 5 Series

525i Sedan525xi Sedan530i Sedan530xi Sedan530xi Sports Wagon

1

Informative drawings with

key vehicle dimensions

(pages 52-53) lead off a

section containing the stan-

dard & optional

features summary (54-57),

technical specifications (58-

60) and exterior/interior

color combinations (61).

From front/rear Head

Protection to the Battery

Safety Terminal: safety fea-

tures, page 36-37.

Exciting new technology,

headlined by NG6 engines

and all-wheel drive. Power &

performance, pages 14-29.

A masterful transition to

Sports Wagon looks and

versatility: Styling & design,

pages 12-13.

Early media reports assess

the new 5 Series offerings.

From the media, pages 10-

11.

5 Series 6-cylinder models

for ’06 feature new engines,

new all-wheel drive and a

new Sports Wagon.

Introduction & overview,

pages 2-5.

Five 6-cylinder models for

’06, up from two in ’05.

All-wheel drive and the

Sports Wagon make the dif-

ference. 5 Series models for

2006, pages 6-9.

Note: Some of the photos and drawings appearing in thisProduct Information Book are preliminary in nature.Many photos and drawings are of European models.

The early ‘06 5 Series

6-cylinder models face some

‘05s, some ‘06s from com-

petitors. Pages 62-72.

Among the Sports Wagon’s

special features are the

Panorama Moonroof.

Comfort & luxury, pages

30-35.

With the new Sports Wagon

come new options. All

about ’06 5 Series options,

pages 38-51.

2006 5 Series introduction & overview Page 2

5 Series models for 2006 6

From the media 10

Styling & design 12

Power & performance features 14

Comfort & luxury features 30

Safety & security features 36

Options 38

Key dimensions 52

Standard & optional features summary 54

Technical specifications 58

Exterior & interior color combinations 61

The 5 Series’ competition 62

Table of contents

Yet more evidence of BMW’s relentless process of evolution,refinement, improvement and morechoices: A scant two model yearssince the current 5 Series made itsdebut, it now appears in evolvedform, featuring a new all-wheel-drive

Sports Wagon, new 6-cylinderengines, and all-wheel-drive variants of two Sedan models.Accompanying all this major evolution are a number of detailrefinements, both esthetic andtechnical in nature.

2

The new 2006 5 Series: introduction & overviewNew models, new engines, new all-wheel drive.

All ’06 6-cylinder models are powered by a new NG6

engine, with magnesium/aluminum composite

construction, more power and torque, and other advanced

features.

Available in 530 form and with all-wheel drive, the new

Sports Wagon places BMW beautifully in an increasingly

strong vehicle category.

As of March ’05 production, all 6-cylindermodels – there are now five of them, upfrom two – get the NG6 engines that alsomake their 3 Series debut at the same time.(NG6 = New Generation 6-cylinder; technicaldesignation N52.) The new Sports Wagon,reviving an appealing concept that combines5 Series sophistication with enhanced load-carrying versatility and all-wheel drive,appears in a single model, the 530xi. The525i and 530i Sedans get 525xi and 530xiall-wheel-drive stablemates; all three AWDmodels feature the remarkable xDrive sys-tem that has already proven how all-wheeltraction and amazing agility can be com-bined. Finally, as the following summary

illustrates, BMW’s never-ending process ofevolution and refinement makes the entire 5Series an even more compelling, captivatingluxury driving machine than it already was.“Having spent a couple of days in the new530i on the spectacular roads of Sardinia’sCosta del Sud,” reported AutomobileMagazine in its July ’03 issue, “we can tellyou that the new 5 Series drives brilliantly.It’s a significant leap forward from the out-going 5, a car that, even in its final days,would have been a major achievement formost carmakers.”

So now, BMW makes yet another “signifi-cant leap” with a further evolution of the

3

amazing 5 Series.

What’s new for 2006As of 3/05 (Sedans) or 4/05 (SportsWagon) production:

New models• 525xi Sedan• 530xi Sedan• 530xi Sports Wagon

All 6-cylinder models 1

Power & performance• NG6 engine for all 6-cylinder models:• Magnesium/aluminum composite construction

• Valvetronic variable valve lift• Electric water pump• Volume-controlled oil pump

• New final drive ratios, numerically higher• Servotronic vehicle-speed-sensitivepower steering, standard on all models;formerly only in connection with ActiveSteering

Styling• Sedans – no exterior changes• Sports Wagon – all-new from windshield

4

2006 5 Series

xDrive, shown here in the

new 530xi Sports Wagon,

also enhances traction in

the new 525xi and 530xi

Sedans. The entire all-

wheel-drive powertrain is

shown here.

back; see Models, pages 6-9, for details

Comfort & luxury• New materials for controls and trim ele-ments2

• Climate-control rotary knobs inRuthenium (galvanic material), all mod-els

• Adjustment tabs on dash air outlets inRuthenium

• Steering-wheel spoke trim in Soft Finish• Handbrake grip in leather

• Preparation for Center installation ofSirius Satellite Radio newly standard

Options• Active Cruise Control now 2nd generation,with enhanced functions

• Navigation System/Voice Command: destination input now by spelling, not complete words

• Now that Bluetooth phone interface is standard, no further offering of installedcellphones

525i/xi Sedan only• Engine power rating 215 hp; single-stageinduction system

• Front brake diameter increased from 310m m /12.2 in. to 324/12.8 (now same as530i/xi)

525i Sedan only

• Getrag Type I 6-speed manual transmis-

5

Self-leveling rear air

suspension, standard on

the Sports Wagon, accom-

modates the

heavier cargo a Wagon is

expected to carry.

Load-carrying versatility and thoughtful new features are

offered by the Sports Wagon.

xDrive transfer case: Appearing in BMW automobiles for the

first time, the all-wheel drive system utilizes a compact

gear drive instead of the chain drive of other BMW vehi-

cles.

Xenon Adaptive headlights are newly standard on 530i/xi

models.

For 6-cylinder models, the ’06 modelyear began in March ’05, when the525i and 530i Sedans entered pro-duction. The all-wheel-drive 525xiand 530xi Sedans and 530xi SportsWagon began rolling

from BMW’s Dingolfing, Germanyplant in April ’05. This ProductInformation Book describes indetail these 6-cylinder models; theV-8 545i continues as a 2005model until September ’05.

6

5 Series models for 2006

525i SedanThe Series’ “basic” model, freshened for’06 and powered by its own version of theall-new NG6 engine. Significantly improvedperformance, with automatic transmissionessentially matching last year’s manualtransmission. Key distinguishing featuresand attributes include:• New 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve inline 6-cylinder engine with magnesium/aluminumcomposite construction, Valvetronic vari-able intake-valve lift, Double VANOS 3

variable valve timing, single-stage induc-tion system; 215 hp/185 lb-ft. torque

• Standard 6-speed manual transmission,optional 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatictransmission

• 17 x 7.5 alloy wheels, Star Spoke design#138

• 225/50R-17 V-rated all-season tires• Active Steering now available only as stand-alone option

• 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes• Leatherette upholstery• 10-way power front seats, includingpower head restraints

• Available option Packages:• Sport (includes sport suspension, ActiveRoll Stabilization, wider 17-in. wheels, run-flat performance tires 4 and other features)

• Premium• Premium Sound• Cold Weather

525xi SedanxDrive makes its Sedan debut in this new-for-’06 model. Bringing xDrive’sunique combination of traction and agility tothe 5 Series, the 525xi is equipped essentiallylike the 525i Sedan, but there are differ-ences in technical specifications, options andPackage contents.

Key differentiating features from 525iSedan include:• Performance and fuel efficiency are some-what affected by additional weight andmechanism of AWD system

• xDrive all-wheel drive system, electroni-cally controlled with variable front/reartorque split and traction control

• Wheel construction differs; same rimwidth, but different offset

• Vehicle height increases from 57.8 in. to58.3 in.

• Same option Packages as 525i, except:• Sport Package deletes sport suspensioncalibration (AWD have their own calibra-tion, same with or without SportPackage); deletes Active RollStabilization; and retains standard 17 x7.5 wheels and all-season tires

• 17 x 8.0 Star Spoke wheels (design#122) with 245/45R-17 W-rated run-flat performance tires 4 (same equipmentas included in 525i Sport Package) areavailable as stand-alone option in combi-nation with Sport Package

• Active Steering not available

3 – VANOS = V Ariable N Ockenwellen Steuerung = variable camshaft control, orvariable valve timing.

4 – Due to low-profile tires, please note: Wheels, tires and suspension parts aremore susceptible to road hazard and consequential damages.

7

530i SedanPremium 6-cylinder model, with higher per-formance (even higher for ’06) and moreextensive standard equipment.

Key differentiating features from 525iSedan include:• Engine has 3-stage variable intake systemand specific software; 255 hp/220 lb-ft.torque

• Heavier-duty manual transmission• Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) avail-able (requires Sport Package)

• Xenon Adaptive headlights standard (525i:optional)

• Same option Packages as 525i, except:• Premium Package deletes 4-way powerfront-seat lumbar support, as it is stan-dard on this model

• Sport Package includes 18-in. wheelswith run-flat performance tires 4 (525i:17-in.)

530xi SedanCombines the 530i engine and xDrive to create a higher-performing all-wheel-drivesports-luxury Sedan.

Key differentiating features from 530iSedan include:• Performance and fuel efficiency are some-what affected by additional weight andmechanism of AWD system

• xDrive all-wheel drive system, electroni-cally controlled with variable front/reartorque split and traction control

• Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) notavailable

• Wheel construction differs; same rimwidth, but different offset

• Vehicle height increases from 57.8 in. to58.3 in.

• Same option Packages as 530i, except:• Sport Package deletes sport suspensioncalibration (AWD have their own calibra-tion, same with or without SportPackage); deletes Active RollStabilization; and retains standard 17 x7.5 wheels and all-season tires

• 18 x 8.0 Star Spoke wheels (design#123) with 245/40R-18 W-rated run-flat performance tires 4 (same equipmentas included in 530i Sport Package) areavailable as stand-alone option in combi-nation with Sport Package

• Active Steering not available

8

5 Series models

530xi Sports WagonNew 5-door model – combining 5 Seriesdesign, performance and technology withsports-wagon versatility. Embodies a hostof new and thoughtful features that enhancepeople- and cargo-carrying capabilities;xDrive endows it with amazing traction andagility. A breathtakingly beautiful, roomy,strong-performing and practical vehicle.

Key differentiating features from 530xiSedan include:• Sports Wagon body, unique from the wind-shield back, graceful yet practical; essen-tially the same length and width, 0.4 in.taller, 209 lb. additional curb weight

• Standard roof rails, accommodating BMWroof carrier systems

• Dual-panel Panorama Moonroof• Split folding rear seats• Variable cargo area, with straight sidewalls and level floor:• Wider than in previous 5 Series SportsWagon; cargo volume ranges from 17.6to 58.3 cu ft. with seats upright or fold-ed, height of loaded cargo (see pages33-34 for details)

• Carpet-lined• Enclosed storage compartments on bothsides

• Lockable storage compartment underfloor, with adjustable dividers for smallcargo items

• Accessory power outlet on right side• Four tie-down hooks in floor

• Standard cargo net, usable with rear seatsupright or folded

• Tailgate with separately opening rear win-dow (both open upward)• Electrically released from remote orinterior switch

• Soft Close of lower section: user closesgently, power mechanism draws it down

• Cargo cover rises automatically when window or lower tailgate is opened; supported on gas struts, no cord orprop. Cover can also be removed fromvehicle.

• Power tailgate with programmable open-ing height included in Premium Package

• Red light at left bottom of tailgate forsafety; visible when tailgate is open

• Unique rear suspension, with self-levelingair springs; designed to maximize cargospace

• Instead of Sedans’ optional rear- and rearside-window sunshades, sunshades areoffered for rear door windows only


9

All models“BMW offers very cultivated inline 6-cylin-der engines; Audi and Mercedes go with 90˚ V-6 engine.”auto motor und sport, Germany, June 9, ’04

“We must say iDrive allows an exceptionallybutton- and knob-free dash, leaving just asound-system volume knob, a few ventilationcontrols and the clearly marked instrumentcluster. We especially enjoyed the smallcruise-control “bug” on the speedometer,along with watching the BMW trademarkvacuum-cum-mileage instrument needle lendsome dynamics to the cluster.”Road & Track, April ’04

530i Sedan“Here’s a thoroughbred, the product ofdecades of setting the benchmark all otherautomakers’ sport sedans aspire to. Justlook at the stance, the way the body sits onthe chassis, ready to pounce on any oppor-tunity to show its stuff on a challengingstretch of road.”Motor Trend, March ’05

“The BMW feels more tied down and morefocused. Our 530i was the handling hero yetdid a sterling job in compensating for longundulations and low-frequency irritations,as well as providing a reasonable

low-speed ride. The Active Steering/ActiveRoll Stabilization package adds dynamicdelight to this spine-friendly behavior.”Automobile Magazine, July ’04, from a comparison with Audi A6 3.2 and Mercedes-Benz E 320

“BMW engineers seem congenitally incapable ofcrafting hardware that isn’t both refined andeffortlessly capable. In this 530i, BMWagain combines sweet handling with a suppleride, enhanced by Active Roll Stabilizationand Active Steering.”Car and Driver, January ’04

All-wheel-drive models“The addition of all-wheel drive increasesthe appeal of BMW's mid-size six-cylinderline to weather-suffering buyers, and thenew 3.0-liter makes for a more enthusiastic5 Series.”Car and Driver, June ’05

“The system works quite well, while stillallowing a sporty rear-drive character tocome through when front traction isn’tneeded.

“The beauty of the system is that the DSCnow intervenes at a higher threshold, whichmeans less frequent juddering felt throughits automatic brake application and generallya purer driving experience. It also means thatxDrive has a better chance at catching the‘Oops!’ before it happens.

10

From the mediaIncluding first impressions of the new engines,xDrive and Sports Wagon.

“Are they the Ultimate Ice Driving Machines?Well, last month’s Zamboni holds the crown.But as sedans and wagons go, BMW is poised totake on all comers.”Road & Track, June ‘06

“Normally, the 530xi puts the accent onrear-wheel drive: 60% of torque to therear wheels, 40% to the front, but atspeeds of 180 km/h [112 mph] or more, purerear-wheel drive. When traction is lacking orthe vehicle tends toward instability, thetorque split changes lightning-fast.

“The driver doesn’t notice any of this goingon – but he or she does realize that on aslick road, the 530xi is very easy to drive.It has a high degree of stability, plus veryagile handling.

“Adding about 100 kg [220 lb.] to vehicleweight, xDrive does add a bit of fuel con-sumption and give up a bit of performance.The latter is easy to accept, because thenew 6-cylinder engine revs so easily andruns so smoothly.”auto motor und sport, Germany, March 2, ’05

“For our first driving impressions, Sedanswith both engines and manual transmissionsawaited us. On Finnish ice and snow, at 15degrees below zero offering more grip thanat our latitudes, they showed what theycould do.

11

In the front view, Sedans

and Sport Wagon are iden-

tical, except that the

Wagon’s roof rails would be

visible in this view. This is a

Sedan.

The 5 Series enters its third modelyear with no changes to its Sedans’exterior design, but with a newSports Wagon that has its own lookfrom the windshield rearward – and anew, handsome and dynamic look itis. Sports Wagons are making astrong new showing among luxury-car customers, and the 530xi boldlydemonstrates BMW’s mastery of thisvehicle format.

This section focuses on the SportsWagon look. Interior changes, whichaffect both esthetics and function,are described under comfort & con-venience.

12

Styling & designSedans continue unchanged; the Sports Wagonexpresses 5 Series design anew.

At the rear, Sports Wagon maintains its 5 Series family

look, differences from the Sedan being dictated by its

functional character and BMW’s skills at harmonizing func-

tion with esthetics. Striking elements include the integrat-

ed roof spoiler, separately opening rear window and a tail-

gate that, for convenience in loading, is as large as possi-

ble.

The Sports Wagon look: in profileBenefits• A silhouette that combines elegance, graceand practicality

• Standard roof rails enhance both estheticsand function

The new 5 Series Sports Wagon exudessportiness, power and prestige. In sideview, its roofline – reaching a maximumheight of 58.7 in., or 0.4 in. higher than theall-wheel-drive Sedans – preserves passen-ger head room and cargo space while slopinggracefully toward the rear. At its rearmostpoint, there is an elegantly integrated spoilerthat, like the rear window and lower tail-gate, wraps into the side.

Side windows are framed in matte black andchrome; with the Sport Package, this framingis entirely in high-gloss Satin ChromeShadowline black. The front door windows’shape corresponds to that of the Sedans, butthe Sports Wagon’s rear door windows havea unique shape and the 3rd side window,incorporating the traditional BMW “reversekink” at its bottom rear edge, is of courseunique to this body.

The side character lines correspond to thoseof the Sedans – the upper one forming a“shoulder” that runs the entire length fromfront to rear lighting units, the lower onenear the door bottoms – but the Wagon’supper line merges with the rear lightingcluster’s upper edge to give the effect of anesthetic flow right around into the rearview.

Finally, the black-finished roof rails – stan-dard equipment in the U.S. – do their part foresthetics and function, accenting the curvedroofline and accommodating a wide range ofBMW roof carrier systems.

At the rearBenefits• Masterfully harmonizes form and function• Upward-opening tailgate with separatelyopening rear window for convenient load-ing

• Low loading height

Here too, the integrated roof spoiler adds toboth form and function. It elegantly framesthe rear window at the top, and incorpo-rates the 3rd brake light. The separatelyopening rear window appears unframed,wrapping clearly all the way to the edge ofthe opening; when the entire tailgate isopened, it leaves more than 6 ft. of over-head clearance.

Like the window, the tailgate’s lower por-tion wraps well around into the body side,accenting the feeling of muscular width thatpervades this entire design. It also reacheswell down into the bumper area, giving aconveniently low loading height. The lightingunits appear red (tail and brake lights) andwhite (backup lights and turn signals), butilluminate in their functional colors and of

13

In side view, the Sports

Wagon’s roofline – reaching a

maximum height of 58.7

in., or 0.4 in. higher than the

all-wheel-drive Sedans –

preserves passenger head

room and cargo space while

sloping gracefully toward

the rear. At its rearmost

point there is an elegantly

integrated spoiler that, like

the rear window and lower

tailgate, wraps into the

side.

“We have no hesitation in gushingover the 530i’s powertrain,” wroteMotor Trend in August ’03 about thethen-new ’04 5 Series. “The DOHC24-valve 3.0-liter straight-six remainsone of the world’s smoothest andmost flexible engines, and it’s nowmated to a standard 6-speed manualor optional 6-speed automatic trans-mission.”

That was then, when the 6-cylinder5 Series models were powered by anengine that always garnered suchpraise. But BMW is never satisfiedwith the status quo; this is now, andall ’06 5 Series 6-cylinder models arepowered by an all-new, even more

exciting engine that has alreadystarted its own round of raves.Unchanged for ’06, except in detail,is a choice of 6-speed transmissionsthat now includes a SequentialManual Gearbox (SMG) for the 530iSedan. Also essentially unchangedare the standard aluminum suspen-sion system, generously dimensionedbrakes and wheels and tires, andoptional features such as Active RollStabilization and Active Steering – allthe elements that combine with bril-liant powertrains to create the 5 Series’ magnificent driving experience.

14

Power & performance featuresNew power, new all-wheel drive.

All-new engine with an all-new look: the NG6 Valvetronic

inline 6-cylinder. Magnesium camshaft cover and thermoplas-

tic intake pipes of the 3-stage induction system (530i/xi

models only) are visible in this photo.

All-new DOHC 24-valve 6-cylinderengines: world’s first contemporarymagnesium/aluminum composite construction and otherinnovationsBenefits• BMW’s unique approach to 6-cylinderpower, now more advanced than ever

• Each model has more power and torquethan its predecessor

• Magnesium/aluminum construction reducesweight, enhances weight distribution,demonstrates BMW’s commitment toadvanced technology

• Valvetronic variable valve lift enhances performance and fuel efficiency

• Electric water pump and volume-con-trolled oil pump also enhance efficiency

• Legendary smoothness of inline 6-cylinderengine is retained

• Equal or greater fuel efficiency

Almost all vehicle manufacturers who make6-cylinder engines have adopted the V-6 format, whose compactness is advantageousin small or midsize cars with front-wheeldrive. By contrast, BMW’s inline 6-cylinderengines are brilliant for their smoothnessand sound, and BMW customers (not to men-tion professional auto critics!) have come totreasure them for these attributes. For thisreason, BMW has elected to retain the inlineformat while developing it toward reduced weight, morecompact dimensions – and even more brilliantperformance, smoothness and sound. Anincrease in fuel efficiency and even tightercontrol of emissions were also set as goalsfor the new engine.

15

The result of this quest is a New Generationof 6-cylinder engines, appropriately calledthe NG6. Compared to its illustrious prede-cessor, the M54 engine family, the newengine achieves notable progress on allfronts (530i/xi NG6 3.0-liter vs. previousM54 3.0-liter):• Greater power, 255 hp vs. 225 hp. Thisamounts to a very impressive 85 hp/liter.

• Greater torque, 220 lb-ft. vs. 214, andeven stronger torque characteristicsacross the broad range of engine speeds.

• Higher revving ability. The new engine’s“redline” is 7000 rpm, vs. 6500 for the predecessor.

• Superior fuel efficiency. Model for model,EPA mileage ratings are mostly either thesame as before or improved – this withthe markedly improved performance. Eventhe new AWD models compare very favor-ably with the ’05 models. See the table at

16

Power & performance

Hollow exhaustcamshaft

Catalytic converter (1 of 2)

Valvetronic servo motor

Hollow intake camshaft

VANOS camshaft positioners

Aluminum chain tensioner

Single external drive belt

Magnesium camshaft cover

3-stage induction system

Chain camshaft drive

Valvegear with finger rocker arms

View from the other side:

here too, the NG6 looks as

new as it is. It’s the first 6-

cylinder engine with

Valvetronic, and the

world’s first contemporary

automobile engine with

magnesium/aluminum com-

posite construction.

Electric water pump

Eccentric shaft

right.• Reduced weight – 22 lb. less. Had BMWengineers developed the previous engine tomeet their goals, it would have addedabout 30 lb. – and thus would haveweighed fully 52 lb. more than the newengine does.

• More compact – Because there is just oneexternal drive belt, vs. the previous two,overall engine length is about an inchshorter.

EPA mileage, city/highway 2006 2005

525i Sedan MT 20/30 19/28

525xi Sedan MT 19/28 –

525i Sedan AT 21/29 19/28

525xi Sedan AT 20/27 –

530i Sedan MT 20/30 20/30

530xi Sedan & Sports Wagon MT 19/28 –

530i Sedan SMG 19/27 20/27

530i Sedan AT 21/29 18/28

530xi Sedan & Sports Wagon AT 20/27 –

MT – Manual transmission

AT – Automatic transmission

Bold indicates model-for-model improvement for ’06.

Here are details of how this dramaticprogress was achieved – over an engine thatwas already outstanding in all theserespects.

Valvetronic variable valve lift. This exclu-sive, patented innovation, already enhancingthe performance and fuel efficiency of

BMW’s V-8 and V-12 engines, appears in theNG6 in evolved form.

Variable valve lift is a step beyond variablevalve timing – which this and all other cur-rent BMW gasoline engines have too.Valvetronic varies lift to a far greaterdegree than other variable-lift systems(Honda/Acura’s V-Tech is one of them).Indeed, Valvetronic varies lift so extensive-ly that it replaces the traditional enginethrottle; engine breathing is controlledentirely by the valves, and the traditional throttle simply goes away 5.

Each of the 24 valves is actuated as thecamshaft lobe deflects a finger-type rockerarm; a hydraulic pedestal positions therocker to maintain zero valve clearance forquiet operation. (This is new; the previousengine has bucket-type hydraulic valvelifters.) On the intake side, there is an addedelement between cam lobe and rocker arm:an intermediate follower.

Upon contact by the camshaft lobe, this follower actuates the rocker arm and, inturn, the valve. The follower is positionedby an eccentric shaft that a servo motor

17

Two views of the Valvetronic

mechanism: left, perspec-

tive; right, looking straight

at it. The components and

their functions are:

• Gear wheel – meshes with

spiral shaft of servo

motor (see previous page)

to rotate eccentric shaft,

varying position

of intermediate follower

according to accelerator

pedal

• Intermediate follower –

varies valve lift

• Rocker arm – actuates

valve

• Hydraulic pedestal – main-

tains valve clearance at

zero for minimum noise

• Intake valve – opens to

admit air and fuel into

cylinder

• Valve spring – closes valve

• Follower spring – retains

and tensions follower

Gear wheel on eccentric shaft

Follower spring

Eccentric

Intermediate follower

Intake camshaft

Finger rocker arm

Hydraulic pedestal

Intake valve

Eccentric shaft

Finger rocker arm

Intermediate follower

Follower spring

Hydraulicpedestal

Intake valves

Valve springs

Eccentric

Intake camshaft

Valve spring

5 – Actually, there is an auxiliary throttle, for certain specific functions only: as afail-safe measure for the unlikely event of Valvetronic malfunction; for diagnos-tic purposes; to control fuel-tank ventilation; and to improve cold starting.Under virtually all normal operating conditions, this throttle is open and impos-es no restriction on incoming air.

rotates in response to the driver’s acceler-ator-pedal movements; the eccentrics onthis shaft determine each intermediate fol-lower’s pivot point and thus varies thevalve lift.

Here are the highlights of Valvetronic:• Intake valves assume function of throttle.Engine breathing – air intake – is con-trolled by varying valve lift. The driver’sfoot gives the commands; valve lift variesaccordingly. At minimum lift, the engine isidling or decelerating; at maximum lift, itdelivers full power.

• Greater efficiency. As a throttle closes, itimposes a restriction that incoming airmust snake around. This causes so-called “pumping losses,” which take a greater proportion of engine power at lowerspeeds. By eliminating the throttle 5,Valvetronic essentially does away withpumping losses.

• More spontaneous engine response. Again,because there is no conventional throttle.

• More power. High valve lift contributes tohigh power output. With conventionalvalve-gear, there’s a limit to how high valve liftcan go without degrading low-speed opera-tion. With Valvetronic, lift is tailored pre-cisely to operating conditions, and isextra-high at the top end. The 530i/xiengine’s power peak (255 hp) comes at6600 rpm, vs. 5900 rpm before. Yet low-to medium-speed operation is not compro-mised.

• A “fatter” torque curve. Not only doesthe new engine produce more torque; thetorque peak occurs at a lower enginespeed, 2750 rpm vs. the previous 3500rpm, and stays essentially flat until morethan 5500 rpm. This improves theengine’s performance across a wide rpm range.

• More refined engine operation. In light-loadoperation, operation is especially smoothbecause valve lift is low.

• Low friction, precision components. Every“rubbing point” in the Valvetronic mecha-nism is not a rubbing (friction) point at all.Instead, low-friction rollers transmit themotion: from cam lobe to intermediate fol-lower, from follower to rocker arm, from

eccentric shaft to follower. The followeritself is a precision component – now evenmore so in this new, high-rpm evolution ofValvetronic. As in the previous engine,zero valve clearance is maintainedhydraulically to ensure quiet operation,though by a different mechanism.

How Valvetronic has evolved. As dramatic asthese fundamental advantages of Valvetronicare – the 1st-generation Valvetronic systemis found in the 545i’s V-8 engine and cur-rent 7 Series engines – with the NG6 engine theybecome even more dramatic. Though highlytechnical and detailed, the evolution ofValvetronic can be understood in these broadterms:• Maximum engine speed increased by 500rpm. This was enabled by makingValvetronic’s reciprocating parts morerigid.

• Maximum intake-valve lift increased from9.7 mm to 9.9 mm, which contributes tothe increase in maximum power output.

• Greater maximum intake-valve acceleration.This means less time is spent opening andclosing the valves; thus they are effec-tively open longer. In effect this is a “de-throttling” that further reduces pumpinglosses.

• Phasing of the two intake valves. Startingfrom minimal intake-valve lift (i.e. idling),an increase in engine load causes the liftand timing of intake valve 1 to increasefaster than that of valve 2. At its maxi-mum, this phasing has valve 1 lifting 1.8mm more than valve 2; at about 6 mm,the two valves are again “in synch.” Thisrefinement achieves an asymmetric distri-bution of the fuel/air mixture thatenhances fuel economy under low-loaddriving conditions.

Improved combustion chambers. Subtlerefinements to the combustion-chamber shapeconspire with the intake-valve phasing to create more stable combustion, with bene-fits to fuel efficiency and emission control.

Further evolved VANOS. Double VANOS 6 is afamiliar feature of all current BMW engines.The range over which intake-valve timingcan be varied has been increased by 10̊ ,achieving yet another de-throttling effect.

18

Power & performance

3-stage induction system. BMW 6-cylinderengines have long had a 2-stage (or dual- 19

The insert (dark) is cast

inseparably into the

magnesium-alloy upper

crankcase. It includes the

cylinders, coolant passages

and all threaded connec-

tions to the transmission,

cylinder head and cylinder

block.

This “exploded” view of

engine block shows the

bedplate and upper

crankcase separately:

1 – Steel inlays fit into bed-

plate to carry crank-

shaft main

bearings

2 – The bedplate.

The NG6 engine block con-

sists of three major cast-

ings:

1 – Upper crankcase, of

magnesium alloy

2 – Bedplate, of magnesium

alloy

3 – Insert, of aluminum-sili-

con alloy.

resonance) system, with one intake-pathlength for lower rpm, the other for higherrpm. This system further optimizes theengine’s power delivery via an additional“middle” stage. Electrically switched, thethree stages are:• Low-speed: idle-3250 rpm• Medium-range: 3250-4500 rpm• High-speed: 4500-7000 rpm.

This feature is present only on the 530i/xiengine; the 525i/xi engine (see page 22) hasa single-stage intake manifold.

Higher fuel-injection pressure, increasedfrom 3.5 to 5 bar (51.4 to 73.5 lb/sq in.),results in an improved injection spray, help-ing reduce raw hydrocarbon emissions in acold engine.

All-new engine electronics. As the abovedevelopment descriptions imply, the numberof variables (inputs) feeding into theengine’s electronic management system hasincreased significantly; a completely newsystem was developed. Among many innova-tive details, the basic ignition and valve-timing functions are duplicated. The firstpart was optimized for fuel consumption andemissions; the second part was determinedaccording to pure driving parameters.Depending upon how perfectly the engine isrunning at any time, control interpolatesbetween the two strategies. Under ideal con-ditions, the engine always runs with its low-est possible fuel consumption. In case ofpoor fuel quality or unfavorable environ-mental conditions, the control parametersprioritize driveability.

Magnesium/aluminum compositeconstructionBenefits• Reduces engine weight• Enhances vehicle weight distribution

Although the direct customer benefits of thisunique and pioneering construction are subtlein comparison with those of Valvetronic,this is nevertheless an important innovation –a world’s first in modern times and exclu-sive to BMW.

Structurally, the new engine block consistsof three major castings:Bedplate (magnesium alloy 7). This castingforms the lower portion of the block(crankcase), and is similar in concept to aconstruction element found in some racingengines – as well as the 500-hp V-10 enginethat powers the new BMW M5. The bedplatecombines with the upper crankcase to formthe outer shell of the cylinder block; theresult is an ultra-rigid engine structure.

Upper crankcase (magnesium alloy 7). Joiningthe bedplate at the level of the crankshaft(main) bearings, this too is a weight-savingcasting. It is mounted onto the bedplate fromabove.

Insert (aluminum alloy). Forms the cylindersand their coolant passages. Whereas the previous engine has an aluminum block withcast-iron sleeves as the cylinders’ working

20

Power & performance

By designing innovative hol-

low camshafts (conventional

camshafts are solid), BMW’s

engine engineers saved

more than 5 lb. of engine

weight.

Another weight-saver is the

magnesium camshaft cover.

surfaces, this insert is of silicon-impreg-nated aluminum (Alusil). Silicon particlesare thus cast into the insert; a “soft hon-ing” machine removes just enough of thealuminum to leave the crystals as the ultra-hard cylinder surfaces. In this sense, theNG6’s block construction resembles that of current BMWV-8 and V-12 engines, though these blocksare all-Alusil.

How it goes together. First, the aluminuminsert is cast by conventional methods.Then, during a newly developed die-castingmethod, the magnesium upper shell shrinksonto the insert while cooling; structuralrigidity and stability are ensured by inter-locking ribs where the two castings meet.

6 –VANOS = V Ariable N Ockenwellen Steuerung = variable camshaft control, or vari-able valve timing.

7 – These magnesium castings are actually a magnesium-aluminum alloy, as puremagnesium would not have sufficient strength for these applications.

In the next step, the upper crankcase, consisting of magnesium shell and aluminuminsert, is mounted onto the magnesium bedplate from above. The sintered-steelmain bearings’ lower halves are in place inthe bedplate, the upper halves in the uppercrankcase. After the bedplate and uppercrankcase have been bolted together, a liquidsealing compound is injected into a grooveon the contact surface between the two components. Special aluminum bolts are usedto attach parts, such as the engine mountingbrackets, to the magnesium/aluminum castings.

More conventionally, the cylinder head is ofaluminum; however, the head of an inline 6-cylinder engine must be cast with greatprecision because its relatively great lengthimplies considerable contraction during thecooling-down process after casting. The cast-ing process used here is called “lost-foam”;because all BMW gasoline engines since the1960s have had aluminum heads, BMW’sexperience in this regard is long and suc-cessful and BMW has used the lost-foammethod for cylinder heads since 1997. Thisprocess, which employs a polystyrene“dummy” of the head to form the mold intowhich the aluminum is poured, results in anextremely precise casting of this criticalengine component.

Other weight-saving materials. Though themagnesium/aluminum composite crankcaseconstruction is the most sensational exam-ple, other materials and production innova-tions also help pare weight from the NG6engine. The second most productive materialinnovation was the adoption of hollowcamshafts, which save a remarkable 2.6 lb.each. Beginning as steel tubes, thecamshafts are shaped in a hydroformingprocedure, subjected from the inside to awater pressure of 4000 bar (58,000 lb./sqin.) against outer forms to achieve the camprofiles. All this takes place in a cold state –nothing melts – and as a final step the camsare polished to a finish quality of 1/1000mm. Hydroforming is also used to achievethe hollow, but ultra-strong profiles of the3 and 6 Series Convertibles’ windshield frames.

The engine’s camshaft cover is of weight-

21

An electrically driven, elec-

tronically controlled water

pump consumes less power

than a conventional belt-

driven pump, helps the

engine warm up more

quickly, facilitates the Heat-

at-Rest feature and elimi-

nates one external drive

belt.

saving magnesium. And the chain camshaftdrive, a high-durability, low-maintenance feature of all current BMW engines, has analuminum chain tensioner that also savesweight. Instead of being a separate casting,the camshaft drive’s housing is integrallycast into the magnesium structure, eliminat-ing a production step and sealing compo-nents. As one final weight-reducing element,the exhaust headers’ flanges are formedfrom 2-mm-thick steel, significantly lighterthan the 12-mm flanges used previously; fora secure seal of this steel to the aluminumhead, graphite rings are employed.

Electric water pump. A conventional enginewater (coolant) pump is driven by a belt,and always runs at a speed directly propor-tional to engine rpm. This innovation is elec-

trically driven and electronically controlled accord-ing to the engine’s coolant and oil tempera-tures at any moment. Thus it runs only asmuch as needed, and in doing so consumes amaximum of 200 watts vs. up to 2 kilowatts(10 times as much) for a conventional pump.The electric pump has numerous tangiblebenefits:• By requiring less power, contributes tothe engine’s increased power output.

• Faster engine warmup, because it doesn’tcirculate coolant when the engine is cold.

• Provides coolant circulation for the Heat-at-Rest feature now included in the cli-mate control.

• By eliminating an external drive belt,makes the engine shorter.

22

Power & performance

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

300

250

200

150

100

50

00 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000

Engine speed, rp m

Torque,lb-ft.

Power,hp

185 lb-ft.@ 2750 rp m

215 hp @ 6250 rp m

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

300

250

200

150

100

50

00 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000

Engine speed, rp m

Torque,lb-ft.

Power,hp

220 lb-ft.@ 2750 rp m

255 hp @ 6600 rp m

Torque and power curves

for the 525i/xi engine.

Torque and power curves

for the 530i/xi engine.

Variable-volume oil pump. Conventional oilpumps, too, deliver oil in direct proportionto engine speed. In order to supply the neces-sary pressure to the VANOS system (whichemploys oil pressure to adjust the camshaftsand thus vary valve timing) at all speedsand temperatures without excess capacityat high engine speeds, BMW engineers devel-oped a new type of oil pump. By varying theoutput of its pump element according toengine oil pressure, the engineers achieved apump that always delivers sufficient pres-sure to lubricate the engine and operate theVANOS, yet never pumps more oil than isnecessary. Thus it –• Contributes to the engine’s increasedpower output, by requiring less powerfrom the engine.

• Doesn’t require a bypass to divert excessflow, which can be up to 80% with a con-ventional pump. This also avoids possibleexcess oil temperatures and oil foaming.

Oil/coolant heat exchanger. Another featurethat speeds engine warmup; during this phaseof operation, it transfers heat from thecoolant to the oil circuit. Under conditions ofhigh engine power and high oil temperatures,it performs the reverse, transferring heatfrom the oil circuit to the coolant, fromwhich the engine cooling system thenremoves excess heat.

525i/xi and 530i/xi: the twoengine versionsBenefits• New approach to the two performance levels contributes to emission control

• 525i/xi engine’s torque delivery isstronger than if it had a 2.5-liter engine

• 525i/xi engine’s power output is almostequal to that of previous 530i unit

Instead of the previous strategy of a 2.5-liter engine version in the 525i and a 3.0-liter in the 530i, both new models use a3.0-liter NG6, equipped and calibrated toprovide two levels of performance:• 525i/xi – 215 hp @ 6250 rpm, 185 lb-ft.torque @ 2750 rpm

• 530i/xi – 255 hp @ 6600 rpm, 220 lb-ft.torque @ 2750 rpm.

Significant differences between the 525i/xiand 530i/xi engines are as follows:• Whereas the 530i/xi engine has the 3-stage induction system, the 525i/xi unithas a single-stage intake manifold.

• Engine software differs between the two

23

A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all 5 Series

models, offering BMW customers a choice most

competitors don’t offer.

The STEPTRONIC automatic transmission is also a 6-speed.

versions.

It can be noted here that customers shouldnot attempt to modify the 525i/xi unit to530i/xi power and torque output, as thedrivetrain in each model is specificallydesigned for the engine’s torque capability.

Transmissions: all choices are 6-speedsBenefits• 6-speed transmissions across the board• 525i, 525xi and 530xi offer manual or STEPTRONIC automatic

• 530i offers manual, Sequential ManualGearbox or STEPTRONIC automatic

All transmissions in the 5 Series have six forward speeds, further optimizing perform-ance and fuel efficiency.

6-speed manual transmission(standard all models)

Benefits• Even more precise shifting than previoustransmissions

• Shorter movements from gear to gear fur-

24

Power & performance

“Paddles” on the steering wheel for manual shifting: espe-

cially convenient when the vehicle is also equipped with

Active Steering. The SMG Sport mode is activated by

pressing the Sport button on the console.

ther enhance BMW’s already legendarydriving pleasure

• 6 speeds improve both performance andcruising comfort

A new generation of 6-speed manual trans-missions has been phased into the variousBMW Series, beginning with the Z4 and thenintroduced in 330 models and the 5 Series.The new 530i/xi and 525xi models continuewith this Type H unit; the 525i employs asomewhat lighter-duty version, called theType I. This new “gearbox” is about 10%lighter in weight than the Type H and haseven higher mechanical efficiency, con-tributing to fuel efficiency. Its gear ratios differ slightlyfrom those of the Type H, not for perform-ance or economy reasons but because ofinternal design factors.

Compared to earlier BMW manual transmis-sions, both units offer tangible customerbenefits:• Even more effective synchronization ofshifting

• Lighter and more pleasing feel as the shiftlever is moved from gear to gear

• Firmer engagement of gear once selected• Sportier shifting, via shorter shift“throws” from neutral to each gear

• Use of lifetime transmission oil, whichnever needs to be changed

• “Clean bearings” design for main bearingsin transmission; protects bearings fromcontamination, ensures adequate lubrica-tion at all times and therefore enhancesdurability.

6-speed STEPTRONIC automatictransmission(optional all models)

Benefits• Compared to the 5th speed of a 5-speedautomatic, 6th speed is a more relaxedcruising gear

• Reduces fuel consumption at cruising speeds

The automatic transmission in all models isthe ZF 6 HP 19 model. As in all other cur-rent BMW automatics, it incorporates STEP-TRONIC, which offers drivers a choice ofNormal, Sport and Manual modes. Park,Reverse, Neutral and Drive ranges (P-R-N-D) are in the right gate of the shift lever.The Sport mode, in which shifts occur athigher engine speeds, is engaged by movingthe lever leftward from D; the Manual modeis engaged when the driver manually choosesa gear by tipping the lever forward (fordownshifts) or rearward (for upshifts).

25

6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox(SMG)(optional 530i Sedan, requires SportPackage)

Benefits• Brings Formula 1 racing technology to theroad

• Retains efficiency and performance of manual transmission, yet offers choice ofautomated or manual shifting

• Includes Dynamic Driving Control (Sportbutton)

• Can shift faster than even an expert driv-er

• No clutch pedal• Manual shifting via shift lever or steer-ing-wheel “paddles”

The 5 Series’ SMG continues to be similar to

that offered in the Z4, 3 and 6 Series ratherthan the BMW M version with DRIVELOGIC.

Like all BMW SMG versions, this is an elec-trohydraulically shifted, electronically con-trolled rendition of a 6-speed manual trans-mission, including an automatic clutch; assuch it is an utterly different type of trans-mission from a conventional automatic such asthe STEPTRONIC.There is no clutch pedal; thedriver selects the desired mode (N, R, D, S)with a console-mounted selector lever, andcan execute manual shifts via that lever ortwo “paddles” on the steering wheel. Thefundamental advantages of SMG are that itfully preserves the performance of a manualtransmission, entails little or no penalty infuel economy, and facilitates both automatedand very sporty driving.

26

Power & performance

Outstanding chassis engineering and technology

make the 5 Series “the handling hero,” according to

Automobile Magazine.

To maximize cargo space

and accommodate the

heavier cargo loads a

wagon may carry, the

Sports Wagon’s suspension

is configured differently

from that of the Sedan and

has self-leveling air springs.

Shock absorbers positioned

separately from the springs

(they’re concentric on the

Sedans) conserve vertical

space.

Features and characteristics of the SMG driver interface includes the following:• A Drive mode (D) in which shifting is automated

• A Sequential mode (S) in which shifting ismostly driver-controlled

• A Sport button on the console, whichselects the SMG Sport program

• An instrument-panel display of the gearcurrently engaged.

In D, shifts are automatic, and programmedaccording to how the driver is currentlydriving: More aggressive driving results inshift points at higher speeds. D is not to beinterpreted as a substitute for the D of afully automatic transmission, but rather aconvenient operational mode for those timeswhen the driver wants ease of driving and isnot primarily concerned with extractingmaximum performance.

With S selected, the driver essentially con-trols all shifting by means of the shift leveror paddles –• Tip lever or paddle(s) rearward = upshift• Tip lever or paddle(s) forward = down-shift

– with the following exceptions:• If the driver takes the engine up to its rpmlimit, SMG will automatically shift to thenext higher gear.

• Upon deceleration, as the engine comesdown to approximately 1100 rpm, SMGselects the next lower gear. When the vehi-cle comes to a stop, SMG selects 1st gearautomatically; upon moving off, however,the driver again chooses each upshift.

27

Air springs

Separate shockabsorbers

Engaging the Sport program via the buttonon the console influences shifting as follows:• In S, shifts occur more quickly (sharply).• In D, shifts occur not only more quickly,but at higher road speeds. This is parallelto the Sport mode of BMW automatic trans-missions.

An Acceleration Assistant function (alsoreferred to as Launch Control) is availablefor very sporty driving: With the Sport pro-gram activated, the driver presses and holdsthe DSC button (on the dash) for 3 sec. ormore, then presses the accelerator to thefloor. The engine is automatically revved tothe optimum rpm for a wheel-spinning startand the vehicle is “launched.” The Owner’sManual cautions: “Do not use the Acceleration Assistant toofrequently, as this could cause prematurewear of the components.”

An instrument-cluster display tells the

driver which of the six speeds is currentlyengaged. In D, it adds a “D” to the gearindication. If the Sport program is selected,SPORT is also displayed.

28

Power & performance

5 Series chassis engineering

and technology in its

newest form, with xDrive:

Note transfer case behind

the transmission and

driveshaft leading to the

front differential.

Front differential

Front driveshaft

xDrive transfer case

Rear driveshaft Rear differential

The 5 Series chassis conceptBenefits• Suspension system (full aluminum on RWD525i/530i models) delivers an amazing combination of handling ability and ridingcomfort on all types of road surfaces

• Variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering standard; Active Steering optional on RWDmodels

• Servotronic vehicle-speed-sensitive

power steering assist now standard on allmodels

• Generously dimensioned 4-wheel ventilat-ed disc brakes

• 17- or 18-in. wheels/tires on everymodel and version; run-flat performancetires available on all models

29

xDrive’s transfer case is positioned immediately behind the

transmission, whether manual or automatic. Torque always

flows directly through to the rear driveshaft. Reacting vir-

tually instantaneously to changing road

and driving conditions, the actuator acts upon a lever

mechanism that increases or decreases the multi-disc

clutch’s engagement pressure. This occurs virtually instan-

taneously, and controls the proportion of torque to the

front driveshaft. Gear drive to the front driveshaft is a new

feature of the 5 and 3 Series’ xDrive; other Series employ

a chain drive.

Front driveshaft

Transmission

Gear drive tofront driveshaft

Multi-disc clutch

Rear driveshaft

Actuator assemblyLever mechanism

The 5 Series interior is spacious, lux-urious and contemporary. Its instru-ment panel includes the “double wave” theme: one waveover the instrument cluster, definingthe driver’s area; the other sweepingover the iDrive control display andacross to the right side. Dark Poplarwood trim remains standard for ’06,with gray-tone Maple Anthraciteavailable at no extra cost. All 6-cylinder models come standard

with leatherette upholstery; Dakotaleather is available in the PremiumPackages or as a stand-alone option.For the Sedans, the news for ’06 isin the details, mainly with regard tomaterials; for the new 530xi SportsWagon, it’s in a new rear-seat andcargo-area configuration that addspeople- and load-carrying versatilitywhile retaining the luxury and esthet-ics of the Sedans’ cabin.

30

Comfort & luxury featuresRefinements to all models, new versatility in theSports Wagon.

Sedan interiors: new materials,refined detailsBenefits• Subtle updates make an elegant interioreven more so

• A closer relation to the 6 Series

At the beginning of model year ’05, therewere already several detail refinements tothe 5 Series interior:• The steering-wheel’s leather rim wasimproved.

• The power windows’ control panel got newSoft Finish.

• Surfaces of interior trim panels wererefined.

• In the 545i, the climate control’s rotaryknobs were newly in Ruthenium.

31

Further changes to the Sedan interiors for’06, which also apply to the new SportsWagon, are also subtle – and indicative ofBMW’s policy of continuous improvement. In brief,they are –• Adoption of Ruthenium trim, as in the 6 Series, for the climate control’s rotaryknobs (for temperature and blower speed)and the tabs with which occupants adjustthe direction of air from the center-dashoutlets. Although the core of this materialis plastic, a true metallic surface isapplied galvanically in several layers, witha clearcoat on top to protect against cor-rosion. As one expects with a metallicsurface, Ruthenium is cool to the touch,though not as cool as solid metal. Afterbeing applied to the power-window panelfor ’05, Soft Finish now appears on thesteering wheel’s spokes – the areas out-board of the wheel’s padded center.

• Leather handbrake grip, replacingleatherette.

New Soft Finish on steering wheel’s spokes enhances interi-

or appearance.

Sport Wagon’s rear seating

offers 0.6 in. more head

room than in Sedans; split

folding seats are standard.

Optional Dakota leather is

shown here.

Sports Wagon interior and cargoareaBenefits• Incorporates same detail refinements as inSedans

• Split folding rear seats are standard• Versatile, beautifully finished cargo areawith many thoughtful features

Up front, the Sports Wagon offers the sameaccommodations as the Sedans, except asaffected by the Wagon’s dual-panel

Panorama Moonroof. Front and rear leg roomare identical for the two body styles; fronthead room is essentially identical, but theSports Wagon offers 0.6 in. greater headroom for rear passengers. The Wagon’s standard split fold-ing rear seats offer essentially the samefunctions and benefits as those that areoptional in the Sedan.

The big difference, of course, is aft of therear seats, where in terms of load-carrying

32

Comfort & luxury

ability and versatility the Sports Wagonoffers not only advantages over the Sedans,but also over its E39 predecessor, lastoffered in ’03. As always with a new BMW –and especially with a new BMW SportsWagon – the 530xi abounds with rationaldesign and thoughtful details:• High-lift tailgate – almost 73 in. headclearance – with Soft Close feature.Electrically released from remote or inte-rior switch.

• Separately opening rear window, for

convenient loading without opening the tailgate.

33

Sports Wagon’s separately

opening rear window facili-

tates convenient loading

and unloading of smaller

objects.

Used like a Sedan’s trunk, the Sports Wagon’s cargo area

offers plenty of capacity, a flat floor, essentially vertical

sides without protrusions, and a cargo cover to conceal

contents. There is an enclosed storage

compartment at either side.

Folding one or both portions of the rear-seat backrests

allows users to adjust people and cargo space to suit the

moment. The continuous, undivided cargo floor shown here

and in the two upper photos on page 34 is the standard

arrangement in Europe, but not available here.

• Fully lined cargo area – floor, sides, backsides of rear seats – with luxurious, yetlong-wearing carpet.

• Wider than that in the previous Wagon, andwith straight, essentially vertical sides,the cargo area presents various cargo possibilities:

• 17.6 cu ft. of volume with the seatsupright and cargo loaded to the top of theseats

• 33.6 cu ft. with the seats upright andcargo loaded to the ceiling

• 58.3 cu ft. with the seats folded and cargoloaded to the ceiling

• Four tie-down hooks in the floor, at thefront and rear corners of the compart-ment.

• A 12-volt accessory power outlet on theright-hand wall.

• An enclosed storage compartment on eachside.

• Lockable storage space under the cargofloor, in flocked tray with adjustabledividers to help secure smaller objects.(The spare tire is under the tray.)

• Instead of having to be hooked into itsraised position, the floor rises, and staysin its raised position, once released via a convenient handle at the rear of the compartment.

• A cargo net, carried in a roller assembly,that can be mounted with the rear seatseither upright or folded. At each side ofthe cargo area is a flat surface on whichthis assembly can be slid rearward forremoval from vehicle; one does not haveto reach in awkwardly and lift the assem-bly out.

• Cargo cover, concealing cargo when theseats are upright; automatically riseswhen tailgate is opened and stays up, sup-ported on gas struts. Cover can also beremoved from the vehicle.

• If, once raised, a rear-seat backrest isnot fully locked into place, a red tabappears to help call users’ attention to it.

• Red light at left bottom of tailgate forsafety; visible when tailgate is open.

A power tailgate is available as part of thePremium Package; see Options for details.

34

Comfort & luxury

Standard in the U.S. model is the Storage Package, which

allows half the cargo floor to be raised into

vertical position as shown. This divides the cargo area into

forward and rearward portions. In the rearward part, verti-

cal dividers can be pivoted into position (also shown),

dividing that section into three essentially equal subsec-

tions. The configuration includes various nets, hooks and

straps to help secure cargo.

The standard cargo net, carried in a roller assembly, can be

mounted with the rear seats either upright (as shown here)

or folded. At each side of the cargo area is a flat ledge on

which this assembly can be slid rearward easily for removal

from vehicle.

If cargo cover is in place when tailgate is opened, it rises

and stays up, until the user lowers it manually.

Both of the Panorama moonroof’s glass panels can be tilt-

ed up…

…and the front panel can be slid fully open.

With its overall roof open-

ing of nearly 42 x 35 in.,

the Panorama Moonroof

gives occupants almost the

feeling of being in a con-

vertible.

Dual-panel Panorama MoonroofBenefits• Open feeling for front and rear occupants• Completely power-operated, including interior sunshade

• 1-touch operation for all motions

With its overall roof opening of 41.9 x 34.8in., this feature gives occupants almost thefeeling of being in a convertible. The powerglass roof consists of two panels, both ofwhich can be tilted up at the rear. The for-ward, larger panel can also be slid open;together, their glass area is almost 10square feet. Although the glass is effectivelytinted, there is also a power-operated interi-or shade; a wind deflector rises at the frontof the opening to reduce wind buffeting whenpanels are open. 1-touch operation is pro-vided for all motions, including that of theinterior shade.

35

In terms of safety and security, the 5 Series is a state-of-the-art vehiclefrom a state-of-the-art vehicle maker.There are no significant changes inthis area of the ’06 5 Series; becauseof its comprehensive safety featuresand its great substance, the 5 Seriesremains an industry leader and fullyrepresentative of BMW’s safety values. In brief form, this section ofthe Product Information Book presents the range of safety andsecurity concepts and features thathelp make the 5 Series such a soundautomotive investment.

Key safety and security features• Dual front-impact SupplementaryRestraint System (SRS) with dual-thresh-old deployment, 2-stage Smart Airbags – optimized for shape and deployment characteristics.

• Front safety belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters – standardon all models.

• Rear safety belts with automatic tensioners – included with the optionalrear-seat side-impact airbags.

• Automatic-locking retractors (ALR) on allpassenger safety belts for installation ofchild restraint seats.

36

Safety & security featuresComprehensive engineering and equipment.

Robust side-impact resist-

ance is built into the doors

of all BMW models. Seen

here are the 5 Series’ upper

door reinforcements and the

diagonal reinforcing bars of

its interlocking door anchor-

ing system.

Included with front Comfort

seats (optional

in all 5 Series models) are

Active front head restraints,

which in a serious rear-end

impact deploy forward to

help protect occupants’

heads and necks.

• Interlocking door anchoring system forside impacts.

• Front-seat side-impact airbags – standard.• Rear-seat side-impact airbags – optionalat nominal extra cost, so that customerscan make their own choice in this matter.

• Head Protection System – front-to-rearhead protection via BMW’s provenInflatable Tubular concept; tubular airbagthat deploys from ceiling and is suspendedon a “sail.”

• Active front head restraints – includedwith the front Comfort seats that areoptional in all 5 Series models. Respondingto impact sensors at the rear of the vehi-cle, the head restraints instantly pivotforward into close proximity with theoccupants’ heads. Thus occupants are able,if they prefer, to adjust the restraints awayfrom direct contact with their heads, yetgain optimum protection against whiplashor more serious head/neck injuries.

• Energy-absorbing padding of body-pillarand roof areas – specific padding at the A-, B- and C-pillars as well as along theroof above the doors.

• Fuel-tank design and location. Not only isthe fuel tank designed to remain sealedeven in severe impacts, its location hasbeen chosen to provide optimum protectionfrom impacts.

• Intelligent Safety and Information System(ISIS) – employing 14 sensors to achieve aprecise “tailoring” of the safety devices’deployment to actual accident circumstances.

• Battery Safety Terminal – in case of asevere accident impact, breaks the high-current connection between the batteryand starter cable. This helps prevent apossible short circuit in the electricalsystem.

• Automatic fuel-pump shutoff upon severeaccident impact. In addition, the doors areautomatically unlocked; the interior lightingand 4-way hazard flashers are switchedon. Thus even after an accident, BMW’ssafety strategy is still at work.

• Coded Driveaway Protection – The multi-function remote is equipped with a tinytransponder which stores an electroniccode transmitted by a ring antenna aroundthe ignition slot. Each time the remote isremoved, this code is changed; the nexttime, the engine can be started only if theremote matches the new code.

• Central locking system with double-lockfeature. When the vehicle is locked fromthe outside, the double-lock feature pre-vents individual door-lock buttons frombeing pulled up; thus even if a thief hasbroken into the car, it isn’t possible toopen the doors. Owners, however, haveaccess to information on how to get out incase one is locked inside the vehicle fromthe outside.

• Alarm system with interior motion detector – standard on the 5 Series.

• BMW Assist – BMW’s comprehensive system of customer services and in-cartelematics is standard on all 5 Series models. For detailed information, seeCenterNet or BMW Fast Facts 2005, pages333-334. Includes a 1-year subscriptionto BMW Assist services, after which the customer pays an annual subscription fee.

37

Interlocking points (“hooks”)

Upper door reinforcements

Changes for ’06 to the 5 Series arrayof Packages and stand-alone optionsare significant but not extensive.Highlights include deletion of ActiveSteering from the rear-wheel-drivemodels’ Sport Packages (it’s nowsolely a stand-alone option); differ-ently composed Sport Packages forthe new all-wheel-drive models;Xenon Adaptive headlights optional

on only two models (they’re nowstandard on the 530s); and perform-ance run-flat tires as stand-aloneoptions for the all-wheel-drive mod-els. This section covers all options,both Package and stand-alone, in arelatively brief form; for furtherdetails on options that haven’tchanged for ’06, refer to Fast Facts2005.

38

OptionsAn extensive, appealing selection.

Factory-installed optionsPremium Package(525i/xi & 530i/xi models, code ZPP)

Benefits• Combines luxury and convenience featuresinto a value-priced Package

• Upgrades some aspects of 525/530 modelsto 545i level

All features of this Package are standard inthe 545i. It includes the following for allfour models –• Dakota leather upholstery• BMW Universal Transceiver, the familiar 3-function device that can operate garagedoors and other external electricaldevices or systems

• Auto-dimming interior and exterior mir-rors

• Ambient Light Package, consisting of –• LED ground lighting in the exterior mir-rors

• Ambiance lighting at interior door han-dles and storage bins

• Exit/entry lighting in rear door panels

(front standard)• Additional trunk lighting (in trunklid)

For specific models, there are additional features in this Package:

for 525i and 525xi Sedans –• 4-way power lumbar support on both frontseats. Not included in the 530i/xi models’Package because it is standard there.

for the 530xi Sports Wagon –• Power tailgate – opening from the interioror exterior release or remote; closing

39

Dakota leather upholstery,

included in the Premium

Package for all 6-cylinder

models, is also available as

a stand-alone option.

The Universal Transceiver can be programmed to operate

three functions remotely.

Ground lighting is one of

several lighting amenities

included in the Package.

Auto-dimming exterior and

interior mirrors are included

in the Premium Package.

The 525i/xi Premium

Package adds power front-

seat lumbar support, which

is standard in the 530i/xi.

An additional feature of the Sports Wagon Premium

Package is a power tailgate. This is the switch on the inside

of the tailgate, used for closing it.

Active Roll Stabilization

(ARS) dramatically reduces

body roll or “lean” by sens-

ing the vehicle’s cornering

and (via a hydraulic motor)

twisting the two anti-roll

bar portions in opposite

directions to resist the roll.

ARS brings a new dimension of “flat cornering” to Sport

Package-equipped 525i and 530i models. Motor Trend(March ’05) reported that ARS “brilliantly keeps the body

level and the driver cool, calm, and collected in the

twisties.”

525i Sport Package wheels

are 17 x 8.0 Star Spoke,

design #122, with

245/45R-17 W-rated run-

flat performance tires 4. For

emphasis on all-weather

traction, the 525xi Sedan’s

Sport Package retains stan-

dard wheels and tires, but

this equipment is available

as a stand-alone option in

combination with the

Package.

530i Sport Package wheels

are 18 x 8.0 Star Spoke,

design #123. Parallel to the

525xi strategy, they can be

ordered separately on the

530xi Sedan and Sports

Wagon in combination with

their Sport Package.

from either release (inside or outside) onthe

tailgate itself.

40

Options

Active anti-roll bar(stabilizer bar)

Suspensionsubframe

Hydraulicactuator

Sport Package(525i & 530i Sedans, code ZSP)

Benefits• Includes Active Roll Stabilization, whichreduces body roll in corners and curves

• Distinctive, larger-dimensioned wheelsand run-flat performance tires

• Reduced prices because Active Steering isnow a stand-alone option

This Package is essentially the same for the

525i and 530i Sedans, but includes differentwheel-and-tire equipment for each model.Its contents are –• Active Roll Stabilization, which dramatical-ly reduces body roll or “lean” in cornersand curves. Objectively, this improveshandling by virtue of improved suspensiongeometry (wheel angles relative to verti-cal), but there is a subjective componentas well: drivers and passengers alikemarvel at the “flat cornering” it engenders. For a detaileddescription of this advanced suspensiontechnology, see Fast Facts 2005, pages28-29.

• Sport suspension. This familiar BMW SportPackage feature means firmer springs andshock absorbers. The usual larger conven-tional anti-roll bars are, of course,replaced by ARS. Ride height is loweredby15 mm/0.6 in.

• Sporty wheels and run-flat performancetires. The Sport Package wheels and tiresare specific to the two models:525i Sedan – 17 x 8.0 Star Spoke wheels(design #122) with 245/45R-17 W-ratedrun-flat performance tires 4

530i Sedan –18 x 8.0 Star Spoke wheels(design #123) with 245/40R-18 W-rated

41

Satin Chrome Shadowline

exterior trim (all-black, with

gloss) replaces the stan-

dard matte-black-and-

chrome side-window trim

on all Sport Package-

equipped 5 Series models.

5 Series sport seats are 12-way power, including power

thigh-support adjustment. In 530i/xi models or Premium

Package-equipped 525i/xi models, 4-way power lumbar

support brings their adjustments to 16-way.

5 Series heated front seats, included in the Cold Weather

Package, include variable heat distribution (or balance),

adjusted on the left portion of this iDrive screen.

Switch for heated steering

wheel is on the left side of

the steering column, next

to that for the wheel’s

power tilt/telescopic

adjustment.

As part of the Premium Sound Package, Logic7 audio sys-

tem delivers audiophile-quality sound via a digital Surround

Sound process, utilizing the 13 high-quality speakers pic-

tured here.

Also part of the Premium Sound Package is this

magazine-type 6-disc CD changer, accessible through the

glove compartment.

Retracting headlight clean-

ing system is also part of

the Cold Weather Package.

run-flat performance tires 4

Even though it is not strictly necessarywith the run-flat tires, a space-saverspare is included.


• Satin Chrome Shadowline exterior trim.All-black trim around the side windowsreplaces the standard black-plus-chromewindow framing.

• 12-way power front sport seats. In addi-tion to the standard 10-way poweradjustments (including head-restraintheight), these add power-adjustable thighsupport. In 525i/xi models with PremiumPackage and in all 530 models, 4-waypower lumbar support brings the count upto 16-way.

Sport Package(525xi & 530xi models, code ZSP)

Benefits• To emphasize traction and bad-weatherhandling, retains standard wheels and all-season tires

• Wheels and tires of 525i/530i SportPackage available as stand-alone options incombination with these Packages

This Package is tailored to the AWD models’specific considerations:• No sport suspension. At present, the AWD

42

Options

Every model is available

with BMW’s ultra-smooth,

satisfyingly responsive

6-speed STEPTRONIC

automatic transmission.

SMG shift paddles are located for an ergonomic thumb’s

reach from the steering-wheel rim.

Active Cruise Control continues as a high-tech option for

all 5 Series models.

chassis has its own specific suspensioncalibration, the same for standard-equipped or Sport Package vehicles.

• Regular-profile, all-season tires, puttingmore accent on all-weather traction andhandling. Customers who prioritize dry-road handling may order the same wheelsand tires as included in the 525i/530iSport Packages, respectively. (See facingpage.)

As with the RWD models’ Sport Packages,Satin Chrome Shadowline trim and frontsport seats are included in the AWD models’Packages too.

Cold Weather Package(all models, code ZCW)

Benefit• Combines weather- and versatility-orient-ed features into a value-priced Package

For all models, this Package includes:• Heated front seats with variable heatingbalance via iDrive.

• Heated steering wheel.• Headlight cleaning system. High-intensityjets, normally retracted, pop out to spraythe lights with washer fluid.

For the AWD 530xi Sports Wagon, thePackage adds –• Ski bag. On the Sedans, this is includedwith the optional split folding rear seats.

Premium Sound Package(all models, code ZPS)

Benefits• Audiophile-quality sound of Logic7 audiosystem

• Glove-compartment-mounted CD changer

This Package corresponds to that in the 6Series Coupe and 7 Series. Its contentsinclude –Logic7 audio system. Upgrades the entireaudio system with –• Increased audio power• Even higher-caliber speakers (aluminum-membrane type for all but subwoofers),plus additional speakers (total 13 speak-ers, vs. standard 10)

• Digital Sound Processing (DSP), adjusted

43

Set speed Select followingdistance

Vehicleahead

Controls and displays for Active Cruise Control. Multi-func-

tion control stalk provides “coarse” speed settings (+/- 5

mph), adjustment of following distance, cancel, and

resume/+mph. The set speed is displayed both

digitally and as a mark on the speedometer dial; the set

following distance appears graphically, as does an

indication of traffic ahead.

along with other Logic7 parameters on theiDrive monitor

• Surround Sound simulation.

6-disc CD changer, mounted at the front endof the glove compartment and taking up noglove-compartment space. It retains a maga-zine, as opposed to the one-disc-at-a-timeinsertion/ejection of some competitive changers.

6-speed STEPTRONIC automatictransmission(all models, code 205)

Benefits• Thanks to 6 speeds, power flow is almostseamless

• STEPTRONIC system lets driver enjoy a highdegree of control and sportiness

This advanced, performance-enhancing andvelvety-smooth automatic is offered as astand-alone option on all 6-cylinder models.

6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox(SMG)(530i Sedan only, code 206)

Benefits• Retains efficiency of manual transmission,yet offers automated or manual shifting

• Can shift faster than even an expert driv-er

• No clutch pedal• Manual shifting via shift lever or steer-ing-wheel “paddles”

• Includes Sport mode

SMG is a highly specialized kind of trans-mission, favored by sporting drivers whoare also technologically motivated.

Active Cruise Control(optional all models, code 541)

Benefits• Adjusts vehicle speed to that of slower-moving vehicles ahead

• Driver can choose following distanceaccording to personal preferences

• System can also adjust vehicle speed incurves

As of the ’06 models, this is the 2nd-gener-ation version, incorporating several signifi-cant refinements over the 1st generation:• Four radar sensors in the sensor unit atthe front of the vehicle, vs. two in early

versions; these widen the unit’s field ofvision from +/- 4˚ to +/- 8˚.

• Thanks to this widened sensory field, ACCnow better senses traffic ahead, “sees” better into curves, and better detectstraffic in adjacent lanes.

• Can interact with GPS Navigation (if pres-ent) to enhance ACC operation.

• The sensor unit’s lens is heated, so thatthe system works dependably even in badweather conditions.

Beyond the speed-maintaining, accelerationand deceleration functions of the standardcruise control, ACC can adjust the BMW driver’s speed according to traffic condi-tions. Employing a radar sensor unit at thefront of the vehicle, ACC senses the speed ofvehicles traveling ahead, and adjusts theBMW driver’s speed to maintain a safe fol-lowing distance.

44

Options

At low to medium speeds,

Active Steering reduces the

amount of turning at the

steering wheel to negotiate

a given curve or corner.

Above, a typical Active

Steering motion at low

speeds…

…and here the motion

required for the same

steering angle at the front

wheels at higher speeds.

Active Steering(optional 525i & 530i Sedans, code 217)

Benefits• Varies steering ratio widely to achieveamazing agility at lower speeds while retaining stability at higher speeds

• Enhances stability in certain critical driv-ing situations

As of the ’06 model year, Active Steeringis no longer part of the Sport Packages; it isnow offered on RWD models only, thus the525i and 530i Sedans. Active steeringoffers hitherto unheard-of benefits:Widely variable ratio. Electronically variesthe steering ratio (that is, the number ofdegrees the steering wheel must be turnedto achieve a 1̊ steering angle at the frontwheels) on the basis of vehicle speed andother driving conditions. This variation isconsiderably greater than that achievable bypurely mechanical means (such as the 5, 6and 7 Series’ standard variable-ratio steer-ing gear); steering-wheel movements forparking maneuvers, U-turns and sharp cor-ners are greatly reduced. This results notonly in greater convenience, comfort and feeling of vehicle agility, but controls located on the steering wheel –multi-function buttons on the wheel’s faceand the Sequential Manual Gearbox’s shiftpaddles – can be operated more easily and

naturally while the driver is steering.

Optimized driving dynamics. Measures manyfactors of operating conditions, and variesthe steering ratio to enhance dynamics, i.e.the vehicle’s response to the steering wheel.

Vehicle stabilization. In situations that wouldnormally diminish stability, Active Steeringcan intervene to preserve stability.

Authentic steering feel. Because ActiveSteering retains a direct mechanical connec-tion between the steering wheel and thesteered wheels, and steering assist isapplied in a proven BMW way (Servotronic,vehicle-speed-sensitive), authentic steeringfeel is retained.

Reliability. The direct mechanical connection

45

Electrically driven planetary gearbox (in circle) adds to the

driver’s input to the steering wheel to vary the steering

ratio according to driving conditions.

As part of the Park Distance Control option, a plan-view

diagram in the iDrive monitor graphically depicts

obstacles’ location relative to the vehicle.

On the 5 Series, Park Distance Control employs four ultra-

sonic sensors each in the front and rear bumpers to detect

objects or impediments out of the driver’s line of sight.

Two of the four front PDC sensors are visible in this view.

Adaptive headlights “steer” according to steering angle,

vehicle speed and the rate at which the vehicle’s

direction is changing.

Xenon Adaptive system includes dynamic auto-leveling of

the headlights, reacting not only to loads carried in the

vehicle but also to transient conditions such as accelera-

tion and braking.

In the Xenon Adaptive headlight unit, ellipsoid outboard

lamps serve as low and high beams; inboard free-form

lamps function as headlight flashers and Daytime Running

Lamps.

and a fail-safe provision ensures that evenif there is a system failure the driver canstill steer the vehicle.

How it works. The steering column takesmotion down to the hydraulically assistedrack-and-pinion steering gear between thefront wheels. Active Steering interposes aplanetary gearbox, feeding in near the bot-tom of the steering column, to increaserotation there relative to the driver’s turn-ing of the steering wheel. The planetarygearbox is electrically driven; the degree to which itadds to the driver’s input is determined by

46

Options

Available in all 5 Series

models, BMW’s superb 20-

way Comfort front seats

offer an amazing range of

power adjustments, plus

memory for both seats.

Inset shows adjustable

“wings” on head restraints.

Split folding rear seats are offered optionally in all Sedan

models…

…in combination with a ski bag.

several electronically measured factors:• Vehicle speed. We want less power assistas speed increases: more at low speeds tohelp us park and maneuver, less at highspeeds for a firm feeling of the road andhow the vehicle is relating to it.(Servotronic power assist provides this.)The electronic vehicle-speed input alsofeeds into Active Steering, which causesthe little gearbox to add to the driver’ssteering-wheel motions (and thereforereduce the effective steering ratio). Thisaddition gradually decreases until a speedof approximately 75 mph is reached, atwhich point the ratio becomes “conven-tional.”

• Stability. Active Steering can add stabili-ty, even beyond the effect already provid-ed by Dynamic Stability Control. Via itsinputs of vehicle speed and steering angle,the system can compare actual vehicle motionwith that desired by the driver. Even atsmall deviations from the desired motion,Active Steering can (unnoticed by thedriver) adjust the steering to enhance sta-bility.

• Uneven road surfaces. A new function for’06: If the driver applies the brakes while

driving on a surface with uneven traction– for example, if one side of the roadwayis slick and the other offers good traction– the brakes’ uneven effect on the two surfaces can produce a tendency for thevehicle to pull to one side (yaw). Undersuch conditions, Active Steering recog-nizes the incipient instability and steersagainst it. The driver does not have tocorrect, and is most likely not even awarethat the system is doing it.

47

With the optional Navigation System comes this larger

(8.8-in.), higher-resolution (640 x 240 pixels) control display.

Voice Command is activated

by the push-to-talk button

behind the controller.

Compared to the standard

iDrive system, the controller

adds Force Feedback for

enhanced tactile feel, plus

additional motions in GPS

Navigation operation.

Sport wheels and tires(525xi Sedan code 589, 530xi Sedan &Sports Wagon code 590; require SportPackage)

Benefits• Combine all-wheel drive with enhanceddry-road handling

• Give “xi” models with Sport Package thesame sporty exterior treatment as on theRWD models

As mentioned in connection with the SportPackages, for customers who desire all-wheel drive but prioritize the enhanced dry-road handling and run-flat capability of theRWD Sport Package equipment, this optionprovides Sport Package-equipped AWD mod-els with the same wheel/tire combination asin the RWD models;• 525xi Sedan – 17 x 8.0 Star Spoke wheels(design #122) with 245/45R-17 W-ratedrun-flat performance tires 4.

• 530xi Sedan and Sports Wagon –18 x 8.0Star Spoke wheels (design #123) with245/40R-18 W-rated run-flat perform-ance tires 4.


Park Distance Control(525i/xi & 530i/xi models, code 508)48

Options

Heated rear seats are available in all models, in combination

with the Cold Weather Package. Their controls are at the

bottom of the wood-trimmed panel, beneath the two DC

power outlets there.

Benefits• Alerts driver when front or rear of vehi-cle is approaching an unseen obstacle

• Facilitates parking in tight spaces• Can help driver conserve parking space

PDC employs four ultrasonic sensors each inthe front and rear bumpers to sound a warn-ing when the vehicle is approaching obsta-cles that may not be visible to the driver.The front sensors cause a higher-pitchedtone to emanate from the front of the interi-or; the rear ones trigger a lower-pitchedtone at the rear.

In the 5 Series, PDC includes a graphic display of obstacles relative to the vehiclein the iDrive monitor (below).

Xenon Adaptive headlights withdynamic auto-leveling(optional 525i/xi models, standard 530i/ximodels; code 522)

Benefits• Xenon forward illumination on high and lowbeams

• Dynamic auto-leveling helps optimize for-ward illumination and avoid glare tooncoming drivers

• Adaptive feature helps driver “see aroundcurves”

This option provides stronger, daylight-likeXenon illumination. In BMW’s 4-lamp sys-tem, the outboard lamps serve as both lowand high beams; the inboard ones function asheadlight flashers and Daytime Running Lamps.

The Adaptive feature literally “aims” atmaking night driving safer. With the head-light switch in its Automatic position (fea-ture is inactive when the vehicle is backingup), the outboard lights steer with the frontwheels, guided by an electronic control sys-tem and swiveled by small servo motors.The system responds not merely to thesteering angle, but also to vehicle speed and the “yaw rate,” or therate at which the vehicle’s direction ischanging. The tangible customer benefit isenhanced night vision around corners andcurves.

On the 5 Series, as on the 6 and 7 Series,the system includes dynamic auto-levelingof the headlights: The headlights’ aim isadjusted for loads carried in the vehicle as

well as during transient acceleration andbraking, optimizing forward illumination andhelping avoid glare to oncoming drivers.

Dakota leather upholstery(optional 525i/xi & 530i/xi models; codeLC)

Benefit• Buyer can opt for leather upholstery with-out the Premium Package

The soft, luxurious Dakota leather gradethat now appears in the 6 and 3 Series aswell is also available on a stand-alone basis.

49

With the optional Head-up

Display, selected informa-

tion can be displayed in a 6

x 3-in.field in the

windshield.

Upper right illustration:

The display appears just

below the driver’s normal

forward line of sight, so

that it can be viewed with

minimal diversion from the

road ahead.

Sirius screen in the iDrive monitor:

1 – User can scroll through the many program choices by

rotating the controller, then pressing the controller to

go to the category list.

2 – Once in the list, the user again scrolls and presses to

select the program.

Maple Anthracite wood interior trim(no extra cost, all models; code 435)

Benefit• Distinctive, contemporary alternative tothe standard Dark Poplar trim

With its gray color and “striped” grain,Maple Anthracite is especially distinctiveand contemporary, and harmonizes well with allinterior colors. The wood trim appears onthe instrument panel and center console.

20-way Comfort front seats(all models, code 456; require leather upholstery)

Benefits• 20-way power adjustment• Memory for driver and passenger• Adjustable “wings” on head restraints• Active Head Restraints (safety feature)

In addition to the standard seats’ poweradjustments, the 20-way power adjust-ments of these remarkable and comprehen-sive luxury seats include –• Thigh support• Angle of articulated upper backrest sec-tion, independently from overall backrestangle

• Backrest width (the backrests’ side bol-sters spread or narrow to accommodatethe occupants’ back and shoulders)

The Comfort seats also include 4-way powerlumbar support, which is an additionaladjustment over the 525 models’ standardseats but standard in all 530s; and memoryon both front seats instead of just the dri-ver’s. Adjustable “wings” are provided onthe head restraints for lateral head supportwhen desired. The front-seat passenger, forexample, might use these wings when sleep-ing.

Split folding rear seats and ski bag(Sedan models, code 465)

Benefits• Enhance passenger- and cargo-carryingversatility in Sedans

• For security, folding seats can be unlockedonly from inside trunk

• Ski bag allows skis to be carried“indoors”

The seats are split 60% left/40% right. Thepass-through for the ski bag is in the cen-ter, as part of the 60% side; as with thestandard rear seat, there are three headrestraints. The center head restraint isattached to the folding center armrest, andthus moves out of the driver’s rearwardview when either the armrest or the 60%seat side is folded down. Releases for foldingthe seats are in the trunk.

Heated rear seats(all models, code 496; require Cold WeatherPackage)

Benefit• Cold-weather comfort

50

Options

Above:

Option 416, for Sedans,

includes a power rear-win-

dow shade and

2-segment manual rear

side-window shades.

At right:

Option 417, for the Sports

Wagon, includes 2-segment

manual rear door-window

shades only.

Like the heated front seats of the ColdWeather Package, this option offers 3-stage/2-zone heating of the outer seatingpositions. The controls are at the rear of thecenter console.

BMW On-board Navigation System(optional all models, code 609)

Benefits• Integrated into iDrive system, which is standard in all 5 Series models

• includes larger, higher-resolution iDrivemonitor and Force Feedback controller

• Includes Voice Command

With this option, the entire iDrive systembecomes BMW’s CCC (Car CommunicationComputer), including –• 8.8-in. Control Display, high-resolution 640 x 240 pixels

• Controller with Force Feedback (incorpo-rates tactile feedback into controllermovements)

• GPS Navigation with DVD database• Voice Command system.

The four main-menu choices are:Communication – phone functions, BMWAssist and TeleService.

Entertainment – radio, Sirius Satellite Radiowhen present, and CD functions. If theoptional Logic7 audio system is present, thismenu also leads to its Surround Sound effectand Digital Sound Processing.

Climate – Functions beyond those providedvia the dash hard controls include heatingbalance for the available heated front seats,and (for when the car is parked) automaticventilation.

Navigation – GPS Navigation, on-board

Information, trip computer, speed limit andstopwatch.

51

Rear-seat side-impact airbags are optional in all

5 Series models (Sedan shown).

Included with the rear side-impact airbags are

automatic tensioners for the outboard rear safety belts.

52

2006 5 Series:Features & technical specifications

All dimensions in inches.

61.

79.

62.

72.

43.

57.

57.

33. 113.7

191.

37.

37.

57.8(std.)

57.2(Sport

Pkg.)

53

All dimensions in inches.

61.

79.

62.

72.

57.

57.

43.33. 113.7

191.2

37.

37.

58.7

Performance & efficiency 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

DOHC 24-valve inline 6-cylinder engine:3.0-liter S S – – –

3.0-liter high-output S S S

Engine features:Magnesium/aluminum composition construction S S S S S

Valvetronic system S S S S S

Double VANOS 1 steplessly variable valve timing S S S S S

Single-stage induction system S S – – –

3-stage induction system N A N A S S S

Electronically controlled engine cooling S S S S S

Electric water pump S S S S S

Volume-controlled oil pump S S S S S

Direct ignition system with knock control S S S S S

6-speed manual transmission S S S S S

6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with Automated, Manual & Sport programs N A N A OPT 2 N A N A

6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission with Sport & Manual shift modes OPT OPT OPT OPT OPT

Handling, ride & braking 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Double-pivot-type front suspension S S S S S

Aluminum front suspension components S N A S N A N A

Aluminum 4-link Integral Link rear suspension S S S S S

Self-leveling rear suspension with air springs N A N A N A N A S

Front & rear anti-roll (stabilizer) bars S S S S S

Twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers S S S S S

Sport suspension calibration ZSP N A ZSP N A N A

Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) ZSP N A ZSP N A N A

Vehicle-speed-sensitive variable-assist, variable-ratio rack & pinion power steering S S S S S

Active Steering OPT N A OPT N A N A

4-wheel ventilated disc brakes S S S S S

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including electronic brakeproportioning, antilock braking (ABS), cornering/brakingstability enhancement & Dynamic Brake Control S S S S S

plus –Dynamic Traction Control S N A S N A N A

Hill Descent Control N A S N A S S

xDrive fulltime all-wheel drive system, electronically controlled with variable front/rear torque split & traction control N A S N A S S

17 x 7.5 Star Spoke cast-alloy wheels (design #138) S S S S S

17 x 8.0 Star Spoke cast-alloy wheels (design #122) ZSP OPT 2 – – –

18 x 8.0 Star Spoke cast-alloy wheels (design #123) N A N A ZSP OPT 2 OPT 2

225/50R-17 V-rated all-season tires S S S S S

245/45R-17 W-rated run-flat performance tires 3 ZSP OPT 2 – – –

245/40R-18 W-rated run-flat performance tires 3 N A N A ZSP OPT 2 OPT 2

Flat Tire Warning S S S S S

54

Standard & optional features2006 5 Series 6-cylinder modelsBold indicates new feature for 2006.

Exterior & aerodynamics 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Front & rear body-color bumpers S S S S S

Halogen free-form headlights S S – – –

Xenon Adaptive headlights with dynamic auto-leveling OPT OPT S S S

Automatic headlight control S S S S S

High-intensity headlight cleaning system with retracting nozzles Z C W Z C W Z C W Z C W Z C W

Daytime running lamps S 4 S 4 S 4 S 4 S 4

Halogen free-form foglights S S S S S

Park Distance Control, front & rear with graphic display OPT OPT OPT OPT OPT

Rain-sensing windshield wipers with articulated passenger’s-side wiper arm, single-wipe control,windshield-washer system with heated washer jets S S S S S

Rear-window wiper/washer with adjustable wiping interval N A N A N A N A S

Roof rails (accommodate various BMW carrier systems) N A N A N A N A S

Choice of standard or metallic paint NC NC NC NC NC

Chrome/matte-black side-window trim S S S S S

Satin Chrome Shadowline exterior trim ZSP ZSP ZSP ZSP ZSP

Adaptive Brake Lights S S S S S

Ergonomics, luxury & convenience 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Vehicle & Key Memory S S S S S

Keyless entry with multi-function remote:Selective unlocking S 4 S 4 S 4 S 4 S 4

Remote trunk or tailgate release S S S S S

Dual power/heated exterior mirrors S S S S S

Automatic tilt-down of right exterior mirror for visibility of curb when backing up S S S S S

Automatic-dimming interior & exterior mirrors ZPP ZPP ZPP ZPP ZPP

BMW Universal Transceiver (3-function garage-door opener) ZPP ZPP ZPP ZPP ZPP

Courtesy lights with fade-in/fade-out feature, actuation fromremote, automatic switch-on when engine is turned off S S S S S

Front & rear reading lights, separately controlled left/right S S S S S

BMW Ambiance Lighting S S S S S

Exit/entry lighting in front door panels S S S S S

Illumination of interior door handles & door storage bins,front footwell lighting, exit/entry lighting in rear door panels,additional trunk lighting & LED exterior ground lighting ZPP ZPP ZPP ZPP ZPP

Lockable glove compartment with rechargeable take-out flashlight S S S S S

Power tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel withfingertip cruise, audio & phone 5 controls, automatic tilt-up for entry & exit S S S S S

Heated steering wheel Z C W Z C W Z C W Z C W Z C W

Cruise control S S S S S

Active Cruise Control OPT OPT OPT OPT OPT

10-way power front seats with power head restraints S S S S S

55

1 – VANOS = V Ariable N OckenwellenSteuerung = variable camshaftcontrol, or variable valve timing.

2 – Require(s) Sport Package.

3 – Due to low-profile tires, please note:Wheels, tires and suspension partsare more susceptible to road hazardand consequential damages.

4 – Selectable via Vehicle MemorySystem (programming by user orBMW Center).

5 – Phone controls active whenapproved cellphone is used in com-bination with Bluetooth interface.

S – Standard

OPT – Optional

NC – No extra cost

NA – Not available

— – Not applicable

ZCW – Cold Weather Package

ZPP – Premium Package

ZSP – Sport Package (requires leatherupholstery)

12-way power front sport seats with adjustable thigh support ZSP ZSP ZSP ZSP ZSP

Ergonomics, luxury & convenience (cont.) 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Memory system for driver’s seat, steering wheel & exterior mirrors (2 settings per user) S S S S S

4-way power lumbar support, both front seats ZPP ZPP S S S

20-way power multi-function Comfort front seats, includingarticulated upper backrests & adjustable backrest width,4-way lumbar support, passenger’s-seat memory & Active Head Restraints with adjustable side support OPT 6 OPT 6 OPT 6 OPT 6 OPT 6

3-stage heated front seats with balance control Z C W Z C W Z C W Z C W Z C W

3-stage heated rear seats OPT 7 OPT 7 OPT 7 OPT 7 OPT 7

Adjustable front center armrest S S S S S

2-level center console compartments with climate-controlledlower compartment S S S S S

Electronic analog speedometer & tachometer (tachometer has variable warning segment) S S S S S

LCD main & trip odometers S S S S S

Check Control vehicle monitor system S S S S S

Head-up Display (HUD) OPT 8 OPT 8 OPT 8 OPT 8 OPT 8

iDrive system with 5 menus & controller (includes On-board Computer) S S S S S

BMW On-board Navigation System, encompassing expandediDrive system, controller with Force Feedback & Voice Command System; includes expanded On-board Computer functions, automatic ventilation & other features OPT OPT OPT OPT OPT

Leatherette upholstery S S S S S

Dakota leather upholstery OPT/ZPP OPT/ZPP OPT/ZPP OPT/ZPP OPT/ZPP

Dark Poplar wood interior trim S S S S S

Maple Anthracite wood interior trim NC NC NC NC NC

Power windows with key-off operation; 1-touch opening & closing of all door windows, anti-trapping feature, openingfrom remote, closing from exterior lock S S S S S

Automatic climate control with separate left/right temperature& air-distribution controls, automatic recirculation control,humidity control, bi-directional solar sensor, Heat at Rest,temperature- & volume-controlled rear outlets, activated-charcoal microfilter ventilation & other features S S S S S

2-way power moonroof with key-off operation, 1-touch opening & closing, anti-trapping feature, opening from remote, opening & closing from exterior door lock, sliding interior sunshade S S S S –

Dual-panel Panorama Moonroof: front panel slides open, both panels tilt up; power interior shade, all functions 1-touch N A N A N A N A S

Anti-theft AM/FM/CD audio system with 10 speakers including 2 subwoofers, Radio Data System (RDS) & FM diversity antenna system S S S S S

Logic7 audio system with 13 speakers, Digital Sound Processing & Surround Sound simulation; includes 2 subwoofers, upgraded componentry & all features of standard system ZPS ZPS ZPS ZPS ZPS

Sirius Satellite Radio OPT/C OPT/C OPT/C OPT/C OPT/C

Pre-wiring for installation of CD changer with standard audio S S S S S

6-disc CD changer in glove compartment ZPS/C ZPS/C ZPS/C ZPS/C ZPS/C

56

Standard & optional features2006 5 Series 6-cylinder modelsBold indicates new feature for 2006.

Bluetooth cellphone interface S S S S S

Ergonomics, luxury & convenience (cont.) 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Power outlets in front passenger’s footwell & trunk (Sedans)or cargo area (Sports Wagon) S S S S S

Dual cupholders front & rear S S S S S

Dual front sun visors with illuminated mirrors S S S S S

Open storage compartments in front & rear doors S S S S S

Fold-up rear center armrest S S S S S

Seatback storage compartments S S S S S

Split folding rear seats OPT OPT OPT OPT S

Ski bag OPT 9 OPT 9 OPT 9 OPT 9 Z C W

Power-operated rear & manual rear door-window sunshades OPT OPT OPT OPT –

Manual rear door-window sunshades – – – – OPT

Rear-window defroster S S S S S

Interior or tailgate trunk release, electrically operated S S S S S

Fully finished trunk with reversible floormat to keep smaller cargo from sliding S S S S –

Variable cargo area with cargo cover, cargo nets, storage compartments at both sides of cargo area & under cargo floor N A N A N A N A S

Split tailgate with separately opening rear window;electric release from exterior or remote; Soft Close feature, rear-window wiper/washer – – – – S

Power tailgate – – – – ZPP

Safety & security 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Dual front-impact Supplementary Restraint System (SRS)with dual-threshold deployment, 2-stage Smart Airbags S S S S S

Front safety belts with automatic tensioners & force limiters S S S S S

Automatic-locking retractors (ALR) on all passenger safety belts (for installation of child restraint seats) S S S S S

Interlocking door anchoring system for side impacts S S S S S

Front- & rear-seat Head Protection System (AHPS II) S S S S S

Front-seat side-impact airbags S S S S S

Rear-seat side-impact airbags & automatic tensioners onrear outboard safety belts OPT OPT OPT OPT OPT

Active front head restraints OPT 10 OPT 10 OPT 10 OPT 10 OPT 10

Intelligent Safety & Information System (ISIS) for deploymentof safety systems S S S S S

Battery Safety Terminal S S S S S

BMW Assist, including automatic collision notification, SOSbutton, enhanced Roadside Assistance; TeleService,Concierge & Customer Relations services S S S S S

Central locking system with double-lock anti-theft feature,selective unlocking S S S S S

Coded Driveaway Protection S S S S S

Alarm system with operation from remote, interior motion

57

6 – Require leather upholstery (PremiumPackage or stand-alone option).

7 – Require Cold Weather Package &leather upholstery.

8 – Requires Navigation System.

9 – Included with folding rear seats.

10 – Included with Comfort frontseats.

S – Standard

OPT – Optional

NC – No extra cost

NA – Not available

— – Not applicable

C – BMW Center-installed

ZCW – Cold Weather Package

ZPP – Premium Package

ZPS – Premium Sound Package

General 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Curb weight, lb.:Manual transmission 3428 3627 3472 3638 3847

Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) – – 3494 – –

Automatic transmission 3450 3660 3494 3671 3880

Weight distribution, front/rear, %:Manual transmission 49.8/50.2 51.2/48.8 50.8/49.2 51.5/48.5 48.7/51.3

Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) – – 51.1/48.9 – –

Automatic transmission 50.2/49.8 51.8/48.2 51.1/48.9 52.0/48.0 49.1/50.9

Wheelbase, in. 113.7 1 113.6

Track, front/rear, in. (with standard wheels) 61.3/62.3 1 61.3/62.2

Length, in. 191.1 1 191.2

Width, in. 72.7 2

Height, in. 57.8 58.3 57.8 58.3 58.7

Body 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Type 4-door sedan 1 5-door wagon

Aerodynamic drag coefficient 0.28 0.30 0.28 0.30 0.33

EPA size classification Compact 1 Midsize stationwagon

Accommodations 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530iSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Seating capacity, persons 5 2

Shoulder room, front/rear, in. 57.3/57.2 2

Head room, front/rear, in. 37.7/37.0 1 37.6/37.6

Leg room, front/rear, in. 41.5/36.0 2

EPA passenger-compartment volume, cu ft. 99.1 1 96.5

EPA cargo volume, cu ft. 14.0 3

17.6/33.6/58.3 4

Engine & electrical 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Engine type DOHC inline 24-valve 6-cylinder, magnesium/aluminum compositeconstruction, Valvetronic variable valve lift & Double VANOS steplesslyvariable intake- & exhaust-valve timing 2

Bore x stroke, mm/in. 85.0 x 88.0/3.35 x 3.46 2

Displacement, cc/cu in. 2996/183 2

Compression ratio 10.7:1 2

Power @ rpm, hp 215 @ 6250 5 255 @6600 6

Torque @ rpm, lb-ft. 185 @ 2750 5 220 @ 2750 6

Engine-management system MSV70 with knock control (2 sensors); Valvetronic, variable valve timing,engine cooling & other functions included in control strategy 2

Induction system Single-stage 5 3-stage 6

Fuel requirement Premium unleaded 2

Fuel capacity, U.S. gal. 18.5 2

Battery capacity, amp-hr. 110 2

Alternator output rating, amp./W 185/2590 2

58

Technical specifications2006 5 Series 6-cylinder modelsBold within table indicates new specification for 2006.

Drivetrain 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Drive system Front engine/ Front engine/ Front engine/ Front engine/ Front engine/rear-wheel all-wheel rear-wheel all-wheel all-wheeldrive drive drive drive drive

Manual transmission Getrag I, Getrag H,6-speed 6-speed 7

Ratios: 1st 4.32:1 4.35:1 7

2nd 2.46:1 2.50:1 7

3rd 1.66:1 1.66:1 7

4th 1.23:1 1.23:1 7

5th 1.00:1 1.00:1 7

6th 0.85:1 0.85:1 7

Final drive ratio 3.38:1 3.46:1 3.23:1 3.23:1 3.38:1

Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) 530i Sedan only: Electrohydraulic/electroniccontrols applied to 6-speed manual transmission; ratios & final drive ratio as for manual transmission; includes Sport mode affecting shift characteristics & engine response to accelerator pedal

Automatic transmission ZF 6 HP 19 2, 6-speed STEPTRONIC with Adaptive Transmission Control,selectable Manual & Sport modes

Ratios: 1st 4.17:1 2

2nd 2.34:1 2

3rd 1.52:1 2

4th 1.14:1 2

5th 0.87:1 2

6th 0.69:1 2

Final drive ratio 3.91:1 4.10:1 3:64:1 3.73:1 3.73:1

59

1 – Specification applies to all Sedanmodels.

2 – Specification applies to all models.

3 – Can be expanded via available fold-ing rear seats.

4 – Rear seats upright, loaded to topof seats/rear seats upright, loadedto ceiling/rear seats folded, loadedto ceiling.

5 – Specification applies to 525i &525xi models.


7 – Specification applies to 525xi, 530i& 530xi models.

Chassis 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Body/frame construction Unitized; aluminum front end, otherwise steel

Front suspension Struts, double-pivot lower arms, coil springs, twin-tube gas-pressure shockabsorbers, anti-roll bar, subframe 2

(525i/530i: aluminum lower arms, steering knuckles, strut tubes, subframe&

thrust plate)(525i/530i ZSP: sport suspension calibration, Active Roll Stabilization)

Rear suspension 4-link Integral Link suspension; coil springs, twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers, anti-roll bar; aluminum suspension system & subframe 2

(525i/530i ZSP: sport suspension calibration, Active Roll Stabilization)

Steering type: standard Rack & pinion, Servotronic vehicle-speed-sensitive power assist 2

optional Rack & pinion, Active Steering; Servotronic vehicle-speed-sensitive power assist2

Overall ratio, standard steering Mechanically variable; mean ratio is 13.7:1 2

Overall ratio, optional Active Steering Electrically/electronically variable over wide range of 10.8:1 – 18.0:1 8

Turning circle, ft. 37.4 39.0 37.4 39.0 39.0

4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with aluminum calipers:Front, diameter x thickness, mm/in. 324 x 30/12.8 x 1.18 2

Rear, diameter x thickness, mm/in. 320 x 20/12.6 x 0.79 7

Wheels: standard Cast alloy, 17 x 7.5 2

optional (ZSP or stand-alone) Cast alloy, 17 x 8.0 5 Cast alloy, 18 x 8.0 7

Tires: standard 225/50R-17 V-rated all-season 2

optional (ZSP or stand-alone) 245/45R-17 W-rated 245/40R-18 W-ratedrun-flat performance 5, 9 run-flat performance 6, 9

Stability-enhancement system Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Dynamic Traction Control,electronic brake proportioning, antilock braking (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control & cornering/braking stability enhancement(525xi/530xi models: delete Dynamic Traction Control, add Hill Descent

Control)

Performance data 525i 525xi 530i 530xi 530xiSedan Sedan Sedan Sedan Sports Wagon

Acceleration, 0-60 mph, sec. 10:Manual transmission or SMG 7.3 7.9 6.4 6.6 6.8

Automatic transmission 7.6 8.2 6.6 6.9 7.3

Top speed, mph 11:Manual transmission or SMG 149 147 149 149 149

Automatic transmission 149 144 149 149 149

Fuel economy, EPA est. MPG, city/highway:Manual transmission 20/30 19/28 20/30 19/28 19/28

60

Technical specifications2006 5 Series 6-cylinder modelsBold within table indicates new specification for 2006.

2 – Specification applies to all models.



7 – Specification applies to 525xi, 530i& 530xi models.

8 – Specification applies to 525i &530i models only.

9 – Due to low-profile tires, please note:Wheels, tires and suspension partsare more susceptible to road hazardand consequential damages.

10 – BMW AG test results. Actualacceleration results may varydepending on specification ofvehicle; road and environmentalconditions; testing proceduresand driving style. These resultsshould be used for comparisononly, and verification should notbe attempted on public roads.BMW urges you to obey all postedspeed limits and to please wearyour safety belt at all times.

11 – Electronically limited except for525xi.

ZSP –Sport Package

Exterior colors

Standard colors Metallic colors

Alpine Jet Mystic Silver Amethyst Orient Olivin TitaniumOxford BlackTitanium

White Black Blue Gray Gray Blue Green Silver Green SapphireGray300 668 A07 A08 A09 317 349 354 A43 430 A36

Leatherette

Beige KBBA • • • • • • • • •

Black KBSW • • • • • • • • • • •

Dakota leather

Gray LCAD • • • • • • • • • • •

Beige LCBA • • • • • • • • •

Auburn LCRK • • • • • • •

Black LCSW • • • • • • • • • • •

61

Exterior/interior color combinations2006 5 Series

Appearing in spring ’05 as ’06 models, the newly powered 5 Series6-cylinder Sedans and Sports Wagonwill face some competitors’ 2005models until autumn (Acura RL, AudiA6 Sedan, Cadillac STS, Jaguar S-Type, Volvo V70); others are ’06models as of spring-summer ’05

(Audi A6 Avant, Infiniti M35, LexusGS 300, Mercedes-Benz E 350).Here we examine seven key competitors: Acura 3.5RL, Audi A63.2 (including the coming Avantwagon), Infiniti M35, Lexus GS 300,Mercedes E 350 Sedan and Wagon,and Volvo V70.

62

The 5 Series’ competitionA strong field – yet the new 5 Series models main-tain a substantial lead.

Acura RLThe RL is Acura’s top luxury sedan. After letting the old RL “wither on the vine” for anumber of years, Acura finally launched an all-new ’05 model. Typically for Acura, itcomes in just one version: 3.5RL, a sedanpowered by a 3.5-liter, 300-hp V-6 engine,with all-wheel drive, automatic transmis-sion only and extensive standard equipment;its base price is $48,735 including destina-tion, which puts it $1,240 below an auto-matic-equipped 530xi Sedan. Also typicallyfor Acura, no options are offered, althoughdealers offer some items for local installa-tion. In calendar ’04, Acura sold only 8,753RLs in the U.S. (vs. 45,584 5 Series), butthese were mostly old-generation vehicles.In ’05 so far, sales are running at an annualrate of about 16,600 units – nowhere near 5Series volume, but then this is just a singlemodel.

The old RL had front-wheel drive. The newone has what Acura calls Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, which splits torque notonly front-to-rear, but also side-to-side atthe rear – a capability claimed to enhancehandling.

Key advantages of 530i/xi Sedan over3.5RL 1:Our top 6-cylinder models vs. their onlymodel.• Inline 6-cylinder engine, vs. V-6. ThoughAcura’s V-6 is smooth and newly power-ful, it still lacks that special sound of theBMW six – which is now better than ever.

• BMW engines employ a chain camshaftdrive that needs no periodic maintenance;Acura’s timing belt does require periodicreplacement.

• Choice of 6-speed manual, SMG or auto-matic transmission; Acura offers only a

5-speed automatic.

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• Car and Driver (December ’04) recorded a 0-60-mph time of 6.7 sec. for the RL.This is somewhat quicker than the 530xiwith automatic (6.9 sec.), but is more thanmatched by the 530xi Sedan with manualtransmission or SMG and the 530i withautomatic (all 6.6 sec.). At 6.4 sec., the530i Sedan with manual transmission orSMG does even better.

• Superior EPA mileage ratings: 530xiSedan manual 20/28, automatic 20/27;530i manual 20/30, automatic 21/29; RLjust 18/26.

• Though Acura claims Super Handling fromits AWD, Road & Track (October ’04)reported that “’Super Handling’ might bean exaggeration. This is still a luxurysedan that, when pushed hard into a cor-ner, will leave no doubt about its plushride qualities.” By contrast, Germany’sauto motor und sport magazine (March 2,’05) wrote of the 530xi’s handling, “Ithas a high degree of stability, plus veryagile handling.”

• One reason BMW’s handling remains moreagile is weight distribution: even the530xi with automatic weighs in at 52%front/48% rear. The RL maintains Honda’sfront-drive orientation with a nose-heavy58%/42%.

• BMW’s xDrive AWD system includes HillDescent Control. Acura’s Grade LogicControl, a transmission shift feature, isnot comparable.

• Better steering feel, now with standard vehicle-speed-sensitive power assist.AutoWeek (September 13, ’04) reportedthat RL steering is still “not quite up topart with the best of the German rivals interms of on-center feel.”

• All 5 Series 6-cylinder models have venti-lated discs of 12.8-in. diameterfront/12.6-in. rear, vs. the heavier RL’smere 12.6 front/12.2 rear.

• No surprise, then, that Car and Driver(December ’04) found that the RL needed180 ft. to stop from 70 mph. The same magazine (January ’04) reported that the530i needed only 167 ft. (No publisheddata yet for the 530xi.)

• RL’s standard 245/50R-17 V-rated tiresare wider than BMW’s 225/50R-17 (alsoV-rated). But BMW’s performance tires(530i Sport Package, 530xi optional) are

245/40-18 W-rated run-flat – a speed rating and capability Acura doesn’t offer.

1 – Comparison based on competitor’s ’05 models. Data from published tests ofearlier 525i or 530i models are quoted where they remain valid for corresponding ’06 models.

• Rain-sensing windshield wipers; RL does-n’t offer this feature.

• Adaptive Brake Lights.• 14-way power front seats, including 4-way power lumbar. RL’s driver’s seat has10-way adjustment, including 2-waypower lumbar; its passenger’s seat hasjust 4-way + 2-way lumbar.

• Greater rear shoulder room: 57.2 in.vs.56.1. In the Chicago Union-Tribune (April9, ’05), Jerry Garrett wrote that in theRL, “Rear-seat occupants will wonderwhy they got seated in coach.”

• More trunk space: EPA volume 14.0 cuft., vs. RL’s 13.1.

• Available 530i/xi options not offered onRL:• Premium Package includes auto-dim-ming, power-fold exterior mirrors.

• Sport Package, including Active RollStabilization and sport suspension (on530i) plus sport seats. (Acura offersonly an A-Spec aftermarket treatmentfor about $5,000.)

• Cold Weather Package, including head-light cleaning system and heated steeringwheel.

• Logic7 audio system, with 13 speakers,DSP and 2 subwoofers. Acura’s standardBose system, though excellent, fallsshort of Logic7 with only a single sub-woofer and no DSP. (Both systems havesurround-sound simulation.)

• Active Cruise Control• Active Steering (530i)• Park Distance Control (Acura offers rear-only as a dealer-installed item)

• Head-up Display• Alternate wood interior trim• Folding rear seats and ski bag• Rear-seat heating.

• BMW wins big on maintenance features.Both models come standard with condition-based service indications and telematics,which (when fees are paid by the owner)facilitate service appointments. But BMWincludes in the new-vehicle purchase priceFull Maintenance for the warranty periodof 4 years/50,000 miles. Acura touts a

64

The competition

105,000-mile “tune-up interval,” but all maintenance is out-of-pocket. Both makesinclude assist plans (BMW Assist, Acura’sSafe and Sound) for the first year of own-ership; after that, an annual fee isrequired to maintain the services.

• 12-year corrosion warranty, vs. 5.

RL strengths – BMW representatives shouldknow about its standard paddle shifters forthe transmission, Tire Pressure Monitoring2, Navigation System 3, CD/DVD Audio/DTSchanger, XM Satellite Radio 4 (including XM’straffic-information service; requires fee),leather, heated front seats (though withoutBMW’s balance control), Active NoiseCancellation 5, auto-dimming interior mirror,Keyless Access (similar to BMW’s ComfortAccess), HomeLink transceiver, adjustablefront safety-belt height, power-retractablerear head restraints, rear/rear side sun-shades and trunk pass-through (but nooptional folding seats or ski bag).

Audi A6 Sedan and AvantAs Audi’s medium-sized line of sedans andwagons, the A6 made its debut in a new generation for ’05. At this writing, onlysedans are offered, but an Avant (sportswagon) has been introduced in Europe andwill be available in the U.S. for ’06. Twosedan models, the A6 3.2 with 3.1-liter V-6engine and the A6 4.2 with 4.2-liter V-8,are currently offered; both come standardwith Audi’s quattro AWD system. In calendar ’04, Audi sold 14,905units of all A6 models; with only the twosedan models for most of calendar ’05, volume may increase somewhat but notapproach 5 Series volume.

At $42,620, the automatic-transmission-only A6 3.2 is priced about $7,355 below an automatic-equipped 530xi Sedan. This lends

a certain perspective, as the A6 also lacksmany of the 530xi’s engineering qualitiesand standard luxury features – not to men-tion BMW’s superior reputation for leading-edge technology and premium quality. Thefollowing direct comparison of the A6 3.2Sedan quattro and 530xi Sedan illuminates BMW’squalitative and quantitative advantages.

65

Key advantages of 530xi Sedan over A63.2 Sedan quattro 1:Our top 6-cylinder AWD Sedan model vs. theirs.• Inline 6-cylinder engine vs. V-6. Audi’s V-6 is a new-generation engine with directfuel injection. But because it is a V-6, itstill lacks that special sound of the BMWsix – which is now better than ever.

• And the Audi engine is still a 90̊ V-6,which means it’s not the smoothest. In aV-6, a 60˚ angle between cylinder banksis ideal. Switzerland’s authoritativeAutomobil Revue newspaper noted that “Inthe upper power range, its sound changesinto a metallic hammering…and at lowspeeds (as in a parking garage) the coolingfan’s loud noise is unpleasant.”

• On paper, Audi’s V-6 achieves 255 hp(same as the 530s) and 243 lb-ft. oftorque (more than ours, thanks to theextra displacement). Yet it doesn’t matchthe 530xi’s performance: 0-60 mph in 7.1sec. with the mandatory 6-speed automatic, vs. 6.9 for the 530xiautomatic. This is surely in part becauseof the A6’s greater weight – it’s 286 lb.heavier than the 530xi Sedan with auto-matic.

• And because BMW offers a manual transmission, drivers who enjoy shiftingfor themselves can improve on that, witha0-60 time of 6.6 sec. (Rear-wheel-drive530i: 6.4.)

• Standard 17-in. wheels and tires. A6comes standard with 16-in., offers 17- or18-in. optionally.

• Standard Flat Tire Monitor. Audi offers a“tire-pressure monitoring system” as anoption.

• It seems Audi hasn’t achieved great sta-bility at high speeds. “For a start,”reported Automobile Magazine in June ’04,“the new A6 definitely does not likecrosswinds, and its responses to driverinputs can be a little too edgy at very highspeeds.”

• Audi doesn’t appear to have achieved ahigh level of refinement in the new A6.Car and Driver (December ’04) was critical:“Even with front and rear rubber-isolatedsubframes, the stiff body and hard sus-pension simply transfer those impacts intothe cabin, resulting in rattles from interi-or bits drumming on one another.” Of the

530i – so far no published remarks on thisaspect of the 530xi – Road & Track (August’03) concluded that “BMW has time andagain proven it can find the perfect bal-ance between ride quality and handling prowess.”

• xDrive’s electronically controlled variabletorque split reacts more quickly to chang-ing traction conditions than quattro’smechanical center differential, and helpsthe 530xi achieve greater agility on slip-pery roads.

• Xenon Adaptive headlights are standard onthe 530xi, optional on the A6 3.2.

• Adaptive Brake Lights.• Greater passenger volume: 99.1 cu ft. vs.A6’s 97.9.

• More front and rear shoulder room, morefront leg room and more rear head room inthe 5 Series. Also, more front head roomin the BMW if the Audi is equipped with itsoptional moonroof.

• Power moonroof standard on 5 Series,optional on A6 3.2.

• Aluminum interior trim is standard in theA6; wood is part of A6 3.2’s PremiumPackage; the 5 Series offers a choice ofwoods at no extra cost.

• Available 530xi options not offered on A63.2:• All 5 Series performance tires are run-flats, a capability Audi doesn’t offer onthe A6.

• Active Cruise Control• Head-up Display.

• Full maintenance for 4 years/50,000miles, vs. scheduled maintenance only.

With the A6 Avant, Audi has consciouslytried to create a sporty vehicle that’sdirectly competitive with the 5 SeriesSports Wagon. The Avant is expected to beoffered with the same two engine choices asthe Sedan, and also exclusively with all-wheel drive. The comparison below is basedmainly on information from Europe about theA6 Avant.

For A6 3.2 Avant quattro vs. 530xi SportsWagon, add or substitute:Our AWD wagon model vs. theirs, whichmakes its U.S. debut in midsummer ’05.• On BMW’s Sports Wagon, you can open therear window separately from the tailgate;this makes loading smaller objects muchmore convenient. Audi’s tailgate opens

66

The competition

only all at once; the rear window doesn’topen separately.

1 – Comparison based on competitor’s ’05 models. Data from published tests ofearlier 525i or 530i models are quoted where they remain valid for corresponding’06 models.

2 – Measures tire pressure directly in each tire.

3 – Not standard in Alaska.

4 – Not standard in Alaska or Hawaii.

5 – Similar to technology employed in Bose headphones; claimed to cancel low-frequency booming sounds in interior.

• BMW’s tailgate also has Soft Close, whichreduces the effort needed to close it andalso makes for quieter closing. Audi does-n’t include this feature.

• A power tailgate is included in the 530xiPremium Package; Audi won’t offer this feature either.

• BMW’s cargo area is 3 in. wider.• BMW combines the cargo cover and verti-cal net (both standard) in a single rollerassembly. Audi separates them into twoseparate assemblies, which seems lessconvenient.

• Self-leveling rear suspension with airsprings is standard on the 530xi SportsWagon. Audi is expected to offer this fea-ture only as an option on the Avant.

A6 3.2 Sedan strengths – standard automatictensioners on all five safety belts, activefront head restraints, leather seating sur-faces, folding rear seats; optional choice ofXM or Sirius Satellite Radio. Add for A6 3.2Avant – Though probably optional, Audi’s airsuspension is 4-wheel and includes variable damping (simi-lar to BMW’s EDC) and variable vehicleheight. 20 cu ft. of cargo space behind uprightrear seats.

Infiniti M35The new-generation Infiniti M series isoffered in five sedan models: base M35($40,510), powered by Nissan’s ubiquitous3.5-liter V-6 engine 6; M35 Sport, with somesport-oriented equipment at $43,310; M35xAWD at $43,010; M45 ($47,380), poweredby the familiar Infiniti 4.5-liter V-8; andM45 Sport at $50,160. Infiniti presents theM series as a serious competitor for theBMW 5 Series – the previous M45 certainly wasn’t. We accept the challenge bycomparing the M35 and M35 Sport to the530i Sedan with and without Sport Package,and the M35x AWD to the 530xi Sedan.

The M is a bit larger than the 5 Series: 1.5in. longer, 1.6 in. taller, 338 lb. heavier 67

comparing automatic-equipped RWD models.It is, however, 1.9 in. narrower, and this isreflected in its rear shoulder room. Withoutquestion, the Infiniti Ms are priced aggres-sively; comparable 5 Series models mustcompete on the basis of better automobilesat higher prices. As the following compar-isons clearly show, the 530s do just that.

Key advantages of 530i Sedan overInfiniti M35:Our top 6-cylinder Sedan model with rear-wheel drive vs. their 6-cylinder RWD model.• Inline 6-cylinder engine vs. V-6. Nissanhas given its 3.5-liter V-6 plenty ofpower and an interesting exhaust growl;but BMW has further improved its inline six’s uniqueand velvety sound while also adding 30 hpover the previous 530i engine.

• More advanced engine technology: magnesium-aluminum composite construc-tion, Valvetronic, 3-stage induction sys-tem, electric water pump. Where Nissantakes the traditional route to power (more“cubes”), BMW has taken a decidedly high-tech approach. The only feature of theInfiniti’s V-6 that seems especially high-tech is its titanium valves.

• Though the M35 engine puts out animpressive 280 hp and 270 lb-ft. oftorque, it has more weight to move. Thisis reflected in a 0-60 time that, at about6.5 sec., slots right in with the 530i; andan EPA mileage rating of 18/25, whichthe 530i (AT 21/29, MT 20/30) tops sig-nificantly.

• BMW offers a choice of three 6-speedtransmissions: manual, SMG and STEPTRONICautomatic. Remarkably, M35s come onlyone way: with a 5-speed automatic.

• Bigger brakes: 12.8 in. front/12.6 in.rear, vs. 12.6/12.1 for the M35.(Actually, the heavier and more powerfulM45 has the same smallish brakes.)

• Standard Xenon Adaptive headlights, vs.optional (M’s Journey Package).

• Standard left/right controls for automatic climate control, vs. optional (JourneyPackage).

• 10-speaker standard audio system, vs.M’s 8-speaker.

• 14-way power front seats, including 4-way power lumbar; M35 has 10-way dri-ver’s incl. 2-way lumbar/6-way passen-

ger’s.• Greater rear shoulder room (+0.3 in.).• Infiniti touts the M’s Lane DepartureWarning, which beeps if the vehicle driftsout of its lane without the turn signals on.Trouble is, under some circumstancesmany drivers change lanes intentionallywithout using the turn signals. “Marc andI were driving along and we couldn’tbelieve how many times that lane depar-ture beeped,” reported Lou Ann Hammondon carlist.com. The device can be turnedoff.

• More distinctive styling. The new M hasmore character than the old, but remainsrelatively bland.

• Available 530i/xi options not offered onM35/M35x:• Active Steering (530i only)• Active Roll Stabilization (530i SportPackage only)

• All 5 Series performance tires are run-flats; M35 offers run-flats only as partof $10,500 Premium Package.

• Auto-dimming/power-fold exterior mir-rors

• Rear door-window sunshades (powerrear-window sunshade in PremiumPackage).

• Full Maintenance for 4 years/50,000miles, vs. no included maintenance.

• 12-year corrosion warranty, vs. 7.

For 530i Sedan Sport Package vs. M35Sport, add or substitute:Our top RWD Sedan with Sport Package vs.their 6-cylinder model with sport equip-ment.• Xenon Adaptive headlights are included onthe M35 Sport.

• Standard wood interior trim (M35 Sportsubstitutes aluminum for standard model’swood, wood becomes optional).

• Active Roll Stabilization, vs. Infiniti’sRear Active Steering. BMW’s ARS activelyreduces body roll (lean) to a minimum;Infiniti’s RAS is claimed to make handlingmore responsive by altering rear-wheeltoe-in according to speed and driving con-ditions. BMW’s ARS also optimizes sus-pension geometry while minimizing roll, soit seems more meaningful.

• Actual sport seats, with power-adjustablethigh support and aggressive side bolsters.Infiniti claims “sport-bolstered seating”

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for all Ms; the M35 Sport adds ClimateControlled front seats, which circulatewarm or cool air through perforatedleather as desired.

For 530xi Sedan vs. M35x AWD, add orsubstitute:Our top AWD Sedan vs. their 6-cylinderAWD model.• SMG, ARS and Active Steering not avail-able on 530xi.

M35 strengths. On manual downshifts, transmission automatically “blips” throttleto coordinate engine rpm with vehicle speed;standard 18-in. wheels and tires; Sport version has 19-in. wheels and tires.Standard equipment includes active front headrestraints, Intelligent Key system (similarto Comfort Access) with Start/Stop button,CD changer, leather upholstery and voicerecognition. Available options include AeroKit as regular option; choice of Sirius or XMSatellite Radio; power/reclining rear seats,Mobile Entertainment System and rear cli-mate/audio controls (Premium Package); RearView Monitor (Infiniti’s substitute for ourPark Distance Control, part of JourneyPkg.); pre-crash front safety-belt tension-ers (tighten belts during emergency braking,Journey Pkg.); “preview braking” as partof Intelligent Cruise Control, pre-pressurizesbrake system when radar sensors detectdangerous closing rate; available NavigationSystem includes Birdview, a 3D elevatedview of landscape.

Lexus GS 300Except for the V-8 engine in the GS 430, the’06 GS series is essentially all-new. The GS300 – the 6-cylinder model compared hereto the BMW 530i/xi Sedans – got a new V-6engine to replace its previous old-design

inline 6. Remaining at 3.0 liters, the newengine lacks the high-revving character ofBMW’s new six; however, it is competitivewith the 530i in terms of power and torque(245 hp/230 lb-ft. vs. BMW’s 255/220). Parallel tothe 530i/xi, Lexus offers the GS 300 inrear- and all-wheel-drive models; at$43,550 for the RWD version, the GS 300comes in $3,645 below the 530i Sedan; at$45,500, the GS 300 AWD base-prices$3,895 below the 530xi Sedan. But is Lexusoffering equivalent car for less money?

Not at all, as the following BMW advantagesdemonstrate.

6 – In its many versions, this engine powers a wide range of vehicles from theNissan Altima and Maxima to the Infiniti G, M and FX series.

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Key advantages of 530i Sedan over GS 300:Our RWD 3.0-liter sedan vs. theirs.• First of all, the matter of character andexcitement. In its January ’04 issue, Carand Driver declared that “BMW engineersseem congenitally incapable of craftinghardware that isn’t both refined andeffortlessly capable. In this 530i, BMW again combinessweet handling with a supple ride…” Thatsounds like excitement and passion to us –and this was before the new engine thatboosts 530i performance significantly! Bycontrast, the same magazine’s April ’05issue concluded that “the GS 300 AWDprovides a driving experience that’sexactly what we’ve come to expect fromLexus: creamy, competent, and quiet,augmented by beautiful interior appoint-ments and celestial sound. None of thatadds up to passion, at least to us.”

• Choice of 6-speed manual, SMG or auto-matic transmission. Typically Lexus, the GS 300 comes only with an automatic.

• With automatic, the 530i does 0-60 mphin 6.6 sec.; the GS 300 reaches 60 in 6.8sec. With manual transmission or SMG,BMW’s 0-60 time is even quicker, 6.4sec.

• The 530i engine’s torque peak, though notquite as high, comes at just 2750 rpm –850 rpm lower than the GS 300’s. Thismeans that across a sizable portion of therpm band, BMW’s engine delivers moretorque.

• And there’s the excitement of BMW’s newtechnology. Lexus’ V-6 lacks BMW’s inno-vative Valvetronic and magnesium/alu-minum composite engine construction,though it does have direct fuel injection.

• USA Today, March 25, ’05, comments onthe GS’ 6-speed automatic transmission:“The more speeds, or ratios, the easier itshould be to keep the engine revving in itssweet spot. But the Lexus engines justdon’t feel all that sweet.” Drilling thepoint further, the paper added that theLexus “Engines are reserved, subdued.Lexus no doubt sees that as refinement.You might see it simply as lack of power.”

• A similar comparison applies to handling.“The elaborate suspension system doesallow high cornering speeds,” reported

Switzerland’s Automobil Revue (April 6,’05), “but the size and luxurious charac-ter of this car hardly animate one to drivethat way.”

• BMW’s Sport Package includes a sportsuspension calibration, plus Active RollStabilization – further enhancing the530i’s already sporty handling. The GS300 doesn’t offer either of these features.

• BMW offers Active Steering. Lexus has asimilar system, which doesn’t vary thesteering ratio as widely as BMW’s, but itcomes only (as standard equipment) on theGS 430.

• More shoulder room (+1.0 in. front/2.1 in.rear)

• BMW uses iDrive to simplify the instru-ment panel. Lexus tries another way, byhiding certain supposedly seldom-usedcontrols (mirror controls, instrument andinterior lighting, trip-odometer reset,fuel-filler and trunk releases; optionalheadlight washers, Park Assist, Adaptiveheadlights and rear sunshade) in aretractable pod near the driver’s left knee. “In the pre-productiontest cars,” reported USA Today, “the podfelt flimsy. And the controls were hard tosee without bending around the steeringwheel.”

• BMW’s moonroof is standard; Lexuscharges $1,000 extra, partially offsettingits base-price advantage.

• Rain-sensing wipers and Adaptive head-lights are standard on the 530i; on the GS300 they cost $1,525 extra, furthereroding Lexus’ base-price edge.

• BMW offers power rear-window sunshadeand manual rear door-window shades;Lexus offers only a power rear sunshade.

• “At the end of our half-day drive in theGS models – the 300, AWD 300 and 430 –none jumped out as being a BMW-beater,”summarized Auto Week Car News on March7, ’05. That 50/50 BMW balance has a lotto do with that, as does a more tightlycontrolled suspension, born of loopingAlpine passes 50 years ago. The Lexus isgood, but we would like a car that is goodwithout all those electronic life-savers,as the 5 Series was when it was born, and thenadds the electronics afterward, instead of

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depending on it to get there.” What a trib-ute to BMW’s heritage and philosophy!

• Full maintenance for 4 years/50,000miles; Lexus includes no maintenance in itsbase price.

• 12-year corrosion warranty, vs. Lexus’6-year coverage.

For GS 300 AWD vs. 530xi Sedan, add orsubstitute:• SMG, Active Roll Stabilization and ActiveSteering not available on 530xi.

• All-season run-flat tires standard on GS300 AWD.

GS 300 strengths. Standard leather uphol-stery, Homelink transceiver, power trunkclose, water-repellent front door windows;auto-dimming, power-fold exterior mirrors andcompass in interior mirror; heated frontseats, Smart Access (similar to BMW’sComfort Access, not yet available on 5Series), Start/Stop button, automatic tensioners and forcelimiters on outboard rear safety belts.Available Pre-Collision system (includedwith Dynamic Radar Cruise Control), venti-lated front seats (BMW: Priority 1 option);backup camera included with NavigationSystem.

Mercedes-Benz E 350 Sedan andWagonThrough model year ’05, it was E 320. Butnow Mercedes’ top 6-cylinder gasoline 7

sedan model is this ’06 E 350, powered bythe new 3.5-liter V-6 also found in C, CLKand SLK 350 models. The new engine adoptssome BMW features (4 valves per cylinder,variable valve timing on intake and exhaust

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valves, electric water pump), but does nothave other advanced BMW features such asValvetronic variable valve lift or magne-sium/aluminum composite construction. Thus itrelies on its greater displacement forincreased power. There’s plenty – 268 hpand 258 lb-ft. of torque – but typicallyMercedes, the emphasis is more “minimumof fuss” (as AutoWeek’s January 10, ’05issue put it) than driving excitement. Otherchanges include Mercedes’ 7-speed automat-ic transmission, replacing the former 5-speed; and a new Sport Package thatincludes quicker (but not Active) steering,bigger brakes and newly styled 18-in.wheels with unchanged Z-rated performancetires. The E 350 Sedan is base-priced at$50,770; Mercedes’ 4Matic AWD is expect-ed to be priced as an option at $2,500. TheE 350 Wagon has a base price of $53,020.

Key advantages of 530i Sedan over E 350 Sedan:Our top RWD 6-cylinder Sedan vs. theirs.• Inline 6-cylinder engine vs. V-6.Mercedes’ engine is larger and more pow-erful, but slower-revving (redline 6200rpm vs. BMW’s 7000) and less sporty inthe way it delivers performance.

• Mercedes’ V-6 is smooth enough (despiteits 90̊ cylinder angle), but thanks only toits internal balance shaft; and its sound is relatively bland. The BMW engine’ssmoothness and great sound are inherentto its inline 6-cylinder layout.

• Performance is on a par with that of the530i: 0-60 mph in 6.5 sec., vs. BMW’s6.6 with automatic transmission, 6.4 with manual or SMG.

• Given their lower-revving engine, the 7-speed automatic transmission of whichMercedes representatives will boastseems irrelevant; BMW’s 6-speed teamsperfectly with the high-revving NG6engine.

• And BMW offers two other, even sportierchoices: the 530i’s standard 6-speed manual transmission and optional 6-speedSequential Manual Gearbox (SMG).

• BMW’s newly standard Servotronic powerassist lightens the steering in parking andat very low speeds, yet retains road feelsuperior to Mercedes’ strangely calibrat-ed electronic assist. Of the latter, a Car

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5 Series Pib 2006

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