If you're in the mood for a luxury sedan that offers a well-balanced menu of performance, comfort and practicality, few cars can compete with the 2012 bmw 535i. It's a shame that this car suffers from some of the same shortcomings found in other mid-size sedans, as it really should be one of the best of its class.
The 2012 bmw 535i gets a new twin-scroll turbo inline-6 engine that delivers a healthy amount of acceleration, yet it still manages excellent fuel economy ratings. In Edmunds testing, the rear-drive automatic-equipped 535i accelerated from zero to 60 in 5.2 seconds and ran through the quarter-mile in 14 flat. That's pretty darn fast for a 2-ton car, even if it won't blow away a Mercedes-Benz A6.
This year, the 5 Series received a recalibrated throttle that reduces last year's irritating lag when you press the accelerator pedal. Other than that, the buttery-smooth engines remain unchanged, and a wealth of available equipment remains at your disposal to make daily driving more convenient.
The BMW's upscale interior is still handsome and contemporary, with glossy tan and matte black surfaces punctuated by elegant swatches of exotic wood. The modular iDrive cockpit-management system is a bit harder to use than in the past, but with patience and insight, you can operate it with ease.
Most auto journalists agree that the new 5 Series drives very well, with agile handling and a relaxed ride. But a few complain that its steering lacks feel, and its larger dimensions can make it seem bulky on tighter roads.
