The 535 roars back into the BMW lineup for 2008 after an absence of 14 years. The 2008 BMW 535 is available in sports sedan, all-wheel-drive sedan, and sports wagon versions. All are powered by a new 3.0-liter, double-overhead-cam, twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 300 horsepower, thanks to such engine enhancements as piezo direct injection and variable valve timing.
The engine is linked to a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with an ergonomic electric shift lever and three shift modes: Drive, Sport, and Steptronic, which enables the driver to shift manually. An optional sport automatic transmission includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual shifting.
The new 535 has the same basic exterior design as the 2007 530, with the exception of some minor restyling of the lower front end, the headlights, and the door panels. It has the same smooth, sleek hood and glass-like lines of the 5 Series vehicles introduced for the 2004 model year, which have caused controversy, as some die-hard BMW fans don't like the new look.
As expected from BMW, the 535 is equipped with a number of cutting-edge features, including a head-up display that projects critical information into the driver's line of vision, an Active Cruise Control system that maintains a pre-set distance from the car ahead, Adaptive Brake lights that shine larger and brighter in an emergency situation, and a Park Distance Control system, which provides an audible alert to help drivers park.
Inside are such features as a three-spoke, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, 10-way powered front seats, a two-way power glass moonroof, power windows, power door locks with a keyless remote entry system, and a full range of airbags.
