MotorMouths

BMW has virtually squared the circle by making its new sixth-generation 5-Series sedan bigger, roomier, better-equipped and more refined than ever before, while further improving its standard-setting dynamics.

Graced with lusciously smooth operation, amazing dynamic abilities, an outstanding hi-tech feature-set and the undeniable cachet BMW’s cars justifiably possess, it’s hard to imagine a more desirable car than the 2011 BMW 5 Series.

A phone is ringing at Mercedes’ headquarters in Stuttgart. BMW is on the line and wants its crown back in the midsize luxury segment. The new 5 series sport sedan provides the proof necessary to support the argument.

If a manufacturer of high performance luxury vehicles can be said to have a bread and butter model, it would be the BMW 5-Series.

The 5-series’s clean lines will be a welcome change for everyone who despised BMW’s controversial recent styling. The long, low hood promises power and capability, while the broad grille and wraparound headlights give the front a dynamic look.

The BMW 5 Series is dramatically updated and improved for 2011. If you’ve held back because you’ve heard complaints about some of BMWs’ cockpit controls, the waiting is over. The 5 is unquestionably one of the premier performance sedans in the world.

The 535i is not the canyon-carving, technical-track-loving “ultimate driving machine” I had expected. That said, the car is thoughtfully designed and beautifully assembled, and features an amazing number of innovative features.

The BMW 5-series hauls around up to four other passengers in comfort and has go fast capabilities while giving the option of sedate and comfortable. But they took a safe design approach and the price has gotten out of reach.

BMW has succeeded in making its 5-Series sedan bigger, more comfortable and more practical but nonetheless more agile and still truly elegant.

The BMW 535i is a very agile sedan. It’s just a shame you can’t feel the road through the steering wheel. This xDrive system is an improvement over the old, but its steering deficiencies point us toward the Audi A6, whether we need all-wheel drive or not.

Overall, we’re pretty impressed by the 2011 BMW 550i xDrive. It has excellent driving dynamics and no shortage of comfort, convenience and/or safety features to go on and on about around the water cooler.

The 2011 BMW 528i is the choice for those who prefer a luxury car that transmits the message that serious engineering remains the chief priority. And gone are the oddball styling details.