The 528 returned to the BMW lineup in 2008 after an absence of seven years. The new 2008 BMW 528 is available in both rear-wheel drive (528i) and all-wheel-drive (528xi) versions. Both are powered by a new 230-horsepower, 3.0-liter, double-overhead-cam inline six-cylinder engine borrowed from BMW's 3 Series vehicles.

The 2008 528 is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or 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.

The new 528 retains the same basic exterior design as the previous year's 5-Series models, with the exception of some minor restyling of the lower front end (the lower fascia), the headlights, and the door panels. It has the same smooth, sleek hood and glass-like lines of the 5 Series vehicles that were introduced with the 2004 model year, although the new exterior design has been controversial with some die-hard BMW fans, who are unhappy with the new look.

The BMW 528 is well-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.