The BMW line has enjoyed consistent No. 1 status in the hearts of car reviewers for as long as anyone can remember. Why? Well, if you’re the type who worships a good drive with impeccable performance and handling, it’s hard to beat the “Ultimate Driving Machine.”
But, being numero uno has its drawbacks. While basking in the accolades as top dog you constantly glance to the rear to see who’s possibly gaining on ya. One can thank BMW for motivating the competition to step up their game. And the fight is getting fierce, which is great for us consumers.
However, BMW has hardly rested on its lofty laurels. Instead of fretting, the boys in Munich have hit the accelerator to give owners compelling reasons to stay with their brand.
One interesting aspect is adopting similar styling across the popular 3, 5 and 7-series models. The plan appears to offer a timeless design with a few tweaks, shorter or longer wheelbases, and a plethora of options to fit your wallet’s capability. Why argue with success?
The new 550i delivers better on so many levels than its predecessor. Situated between the highly popular 3 and flagship 7-series, the 550i is what Goldilocks would claim as “just right.” Design. Performance. Handling. Passenger room. Creature comforts. High tech. This is a car that lures you to drive the long way home.
SKIN
Happily, after enduring the controversial Chris Bangle design era, the latest 5-series brings a classier and less flamboyant style – more like a classic tailored suit that wears extremely well. The lines are cleaner. Nothing looks out of whack. A subtle indention fans gracefully across the hood. Its front end is more aggressive with a sporty facia. I appreciate a nice rear (who doesn’t?) and this one’s a nice caboose. Optional 19-inch rims complete the overall pleasing appearance.
My tester included a unique Black Sapphire Metallic paint that casts a terrific reflection in the sunlight. A car fanatic buddy thought it was BMW’s best 5-series design ever. And it’s a ride that looks much better in person than in pictures. It simply brings a satisfying smile to your mug each time you stop and admire.
PERFORMANCE
While the 550i looks better, it’s all about the driving experience with a Beemer. The 4.4-liter, 400 horsepower, 440 lbs. of torque, V-8 twin turbo, direct fuel injection engine is oh so smooth, yet gratifyingly powerful. Acceleration ranges from effortless to astounding via the eight-speed tranny. It’s the only car I ever felt the need to enable cruise control, as hitting 90 mph+ is far too easy. Seriously.
The famous 50:50 weight distribution provides superb handling. Choosing the optional and programmable Dynamic Handling Package adjusts the suspension and gear kick points through four modes – Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ – with a one-touch toggle switch. You can either cruise or give it hell. The Sport+ mode disengages the electronic steering nanny to allow the racer in you to throw a little oversteer in your drive. The once harsh Run Flat tires are toned down so your bones don’t rattle over bumpy roads. Even the back wheels move 2.5 degrees for tighter turns. Braking is sure and true.
CABIN
Fully aware of increased competition, BMW acknowledges American luxury car buyers also demand creature comforts by refining the interior’s display controls and luxury notes. The cabin layout is clean, roomy and easy to navigate. Everything is in its rightful place. They even moved the cup holders off the dashboard to the console. Bravo!
The 10-way power adjusted seats are supportive and comfortable, but I’d upgrade to the heated and cooled vented leather. The gearshift feels perfect in your palm. There are sunshades all around. Auto high beams. My tester had wood trim, but I think the optional real aluminum trim better matches the overall scheme. One cool option is the soft-closing doors – no slamming necessary (but you’ll have to remind the kiddos).
I’m a big sunroof fan. This one is large and quiet … so much so that even a Bluetooth conversation isn’t blown away.
TECH CHECK
The optional 10.25-inch navigation screen rocks. Information is clear and legible (no need for readers). Split screen allows for NAV and radio information. The optional rearview camera looks near HD in quality. The once quirky iDrive brain center is now blissfully simple and intuitive. I never had to peek at the on-board owner’s manual to decipher the controls. The sound system is good and clear, and I hear the Head-Up Display is very cool (not included in the tester) to keep your eyes riveted on the road. The Driver Assistance Package offers Blind Spot Detection (subtle steering wheel vibration feedback), Lane Departure Warning and Parking Assistant.
One benefit that can’t be overlooked is the no-cost maintenance and replacement coverage that covers everything except tires and gas for four years/50,000 miles. Buying a fine German import with zero repair bill worries brings a peace of mind that’s hard to ignore.
The 550i was tough to return, conjuring devious thoughts of leading a long and exhilarating police chase. It’s that much fun. You’d be wise to include it in your test drives when scouring the performance luxury market.
I mean, who doesn’t want to be No. 1?
SCORECARD
Golf bags: Two in trunk
Curbside appeal: Confident, understated design with tons of punch.
0-60: 5 seconds
Gas mileage: 17/25. Observed 19.8 in very spirited driving.
Must-haves: Premium Packaging 2, Dynamic Handling, Driver Assistance packages and heated/cooled seats.
Warranty: 4-year/50,000 miles. Includes no-cost replacement for everything except gas and tires.
Base price: $59,700
Price as tested: $71,725
Test-drive the BMW 550i at Classic BMW in Plano.
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