For 2011, BMW completely redesigned the 5 Series. The 2004 – 2010 5 series was successful but wasn’t able to maintain the momentum of the previous generation 5 Series mostly due to its styling and the 2011 5 Series changes all that! The new car is styled similarly to the new 7 Series with a visually long hood and aggressive front end.

Host Ross Rapoport road tests and reviews the new BMW 5 Series and compares it to the Mercedes-Benz E Class and Audi A6 as well as Japanese competition like the Infiniti M56.

Vehicle: 2011 BMW 535i
Base Price: $49,600
Price as tested: $66,175
Engine: Inline 6 cylinder, twin turbo
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Horsepower: 300 hp / 300 lb-ft torque
0-60 MPH: 5.7 seconds
Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles maintenance included

EPA: 19 city / 28 highway MPG

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The 2011 BMW 5 Series debuted to a packed house at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Both the 535i and 550i were in attendance. For 2011, the 5 Series keeps getting better, growing a little wider, longer and lower without losing the classic BMW look.

The 5 Series represents the epitome of the brand and BMW did not forget that fact. While both models come with an 8-speed automatic, BMW offers a 6-speed manual option at no additional cost. The 535i is powered by an inline-six while the 550i uses the V8 twin turbo.

Pricing for the 535i starts just shy of $50k at $49,650 while the 550i, including nav, starts just over $10k more that the 535i at $59,750. While some may balk at the price, prospective buyers should factor in BMW’s warranty for the first 50,000 miles that provides no-cost service.

To discuss the new 5 Series, visit our BMW 5 Series Forum.