“Head-turning looks.” “Great personality.” “Smart.” “Fun.” What might sound like someone’s personal profile also happens to be the spot-on descriptions for the 2010 BMW 528i and 528i xDrive sedans.
The BMW 5 Series has long been unique in its class in that, even with its roomy, luxurious cabin, it preserved the fun-to-drive spirit of the 3 Series. Changes for 2010 make the 528i models both smarter and sharper looking.
First, the addition of BMW’s fourth-generation iDrive system on vehicles equipped with the optional onboard navigation system brings greater ease of use. Automotive media have already lauded this new iDrive system in the 7 Series.
The 528i cuts a distinctive profile among luxury sedans, and the newly available M Sport Package imbues it with unmistakable enthusiast attitude. Beyond the popular Sport Package, the M Sport Package includes an anthracite headliner, an exterior aerodynamic package with Shadowline trim and M-specific wheels, doorsills, footrest, gearshift lever and steering wheel. For an added touch of exclusivity, some M exterior colors are also available in conjunction with the M Sport Package.
That’s what’s new. The basics are as impressive as ever and remain reminders why driving enthusiasts, given all the choices available, gravitate to BMWs.
The 528i models including the all-wheel drive 528i xDrive are powered by the industry’s first regular-production aluminum/magnesium composite engine. This 3.0-liter inline-six carries on BMW’s tradition of building cutting-edge engines that combine outstanding power, unparalleled refinement and excellent fuel efficiency.
A masterpiece of smoothness, the 3.0-liter six produces 230 hp. BMW technology including Valvetronic intake valve system and Double VANOS camshaft timing ensures it’s the most responsive 230 horses you ever put your right foot to – and maybe the best-sounding, too. Note that a 528i delivers up to 28 mpg in highway driving – a welcome benefit for any driver.
The 528i starts at an MSRP of $45,800 while the 528i xDrive gives you the all-weather handling of the xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system at $48,100. BMW’s innovative xDrive sends most of the power to the rear wheels for the classic BMW performance-driving feel, but can instantly direct power to the front wheels in slippery conditions.
It’s true that many customers in this segment prefer the driving ease and enjoyment of the 528i’s six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission – a no-cost option. Strong evidence that BMW is run by driving enthusiasts is seen in the availability of a standard six-speed manual transmission in the 528i and 528i xDrive models.
None of the 528i models inherent sportiness comes at the expense of ride comfort or luxury – and vice versa. In fact, one option, Active Roll Stabilization (part of the Sport and M Sport Packages), enhances both by precisely tuning the suspension’s roll resistance – optimizing for handling and comfort.
The list of standard amenities includes 10-way power front seats with power head restraints, memory for driver's seat, side-view mirrors and steering wheel position, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power glass moonroof with remote and "one-touch" operation and power tilt and telescopic steering wheel with automatic tilt-up.
The three-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel puts controls for the audio system, cruise control and Bluetooth wireless for a hands-free mobile phone at your fingertips. Here’s a detail you appreciate from the first time you parallel park – automatic tilt-down of the passenger's side-view mirror when you shift into reverse.
Other brands can get a little loud when touting safety features, but BMW has long been an innovator in this area, too. It was the first brand to offer a stability system, for example. In the 528i models, BMW's Advanced Safety System integrates deployment of passive and active safety features.
The available Lane Departure Warning system uses a camera to watch the driver, looking for motions that might suggest an inadvertent lane change. It then sends a mild vibration through the steering wheel to get your attention.
Active Cruise Control – which uses radar to maintain a set distance from vehicles traveling ahead – allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop without losing its setting, then accelerate back up to set speed with only a touch of the accelerator pedal. The system’s Stop and Go feature can make dealing with heavy traffic less stressful.
It’s when you break free of the traffic, though, where you will really fall in love with driving the 528i.
