When you’re on top, someone is always looking to knock you off. BMW, long the benchmark in virtually every segment they compete in, has to fend off a fresh set of contenders each year looking to claim the title.
Over the years, the 5-Series group of sedans have pushed back many worthy contenders but there are nicks in the armor. The current 5-Series sedans date back to late 2003 when they were introduced as 2004 models. Last year, BMW gave the 5-Series some automotive Botox and steroidal injections to freshen things up a bit.
As the flagship of the 5-Series, the 550i receives a new Sport Package with 19-inch wheels as well as the previously mentioned body enhancements and interior freshening that the rest of the 5-Series sedans received.
Technology has always been a big part of BMW offerings, and for 2008 there are some new features making their appearance on BMW cars.
New for BMW is the Lane Departure Warning system, a camera-based system that monitors the car’s position in a traffic lane and alerts the driver via a steering wheel “shimmy” that you’re close to entering another lane.
Active Cruise Control is extended via a new Stop and Go feature, which enables the system to function even in heavy traffic. Active Cruise allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop without losing its setting, and then accelerate back up to a set speed with only a touch of the accelerator pedal from the driver. The only concern I have with this system is that it could become a crutch for some drivers and further remove them for the driving process to concentrate on any number of frightening activities behind the wheel.
Audio options also expand with a USB adapter for an iPod or MP3 player.
Unfortunately the distracting and unnecessarily busy iDrive system continues and adds a row of programmable “favorite” buttons (presets on regular radios), which can be used for anything from frequently listened to radio stations to pre-programmed destinations with the optional navigation system. Question: Why would you need a preprogrammed “favorite” button for directions to a regularly visited location?
Engineering has always been a hallmark for BMW with their engines recognized for their performance, smoothness and sophistication. The test vehicle was the 5 Series range topper and as such came fitted with the top V-8 engine: the 4.8-liter, 360-hp/torque all-aluminum N62. This is the same V-8 engine used in the 750Li Sedan, but in the 5-Series it resides in a sportier, lighter, more agile car.
The engine was backed by a sweet six-speed manual transmission. When shelling out $69,820 (it started at $58,500) for a 550i equipped like the test vehicle, fuel economy numbers are probably not the most important numbers. But, in case you’re curious, the 550i checks in at 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway -- if you’re not wearing heavy shoes while driving. Oh, and make sure you fill up with premium.
Going beyond status, technology and luxury features the 550i is about the drive: Power when you need it, smoothness throughout and a feeling of control constantly.
The performance part translates into 5.6 seconds from 0-to-60 mph with a manual transmission that really shifted precisely and allowed me to bang through the gears smoothly for optimal power application.
For more sensible driving applications, the 550i takes advantage of an aluminum suspension, large-diameter disc brakes and meaty 19 x 8.0 front/19 x 9.5 rear wheels that meet the pavement with 245/40R-18 front and 275/35R-18 rear performance tires to deliver a premium ride. Even with these performance tires and suspension tuning, the ride remained comfortable, but small pot holes can upset the car.
With the Sport Package you get the Active Roll Stabilization, which keeps body lean in check. I liked the optional Active Steering in low-speed situations, but it was harder to notice any difference over a standard system in normal or higher-speed driving.
As with all BMW vehicles, Dynamic Stability Control is standard equipment, and it provides a wide range of traction and stability functions. The braking action is very confident, straight and predictable.
In the end, the 550i driving experience is so well balanced, velvety fast and nimble that some drivers may find this car unexciting because it does everything so well.
From the inside, the 5 Series cars benefit from a great seating chart. Seats are comfortable but supportive, augmented with good headroom and legroom both front and rear. The power tilt/telescoping wheel combined with the very adjustable seat allow you to configure an optimal driving position. However, I’d like to point out again that the controls could be better without the iDrive to navigate through. The audio system was stellar once you finally tuned the station in.
The interior is very buttoned down -- call it professional and crisp with some really fine leather.
The 550i sedan definitely plays in the big leagues as competitors like the Cadillac STS-V, Infiniti M45 and Mercedes-Benz E-550 are looking to secure the throne.
Even with its minor flaws, the 550i’s leadership role is secure for another year, and as such it will manage to stay at the top of upwardly mobile consumers’ wish lists.
DriveLive around Chicago in a VW Eos
