2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo is the latest addition to this German automaker's midsize car lineup. The Gran Turismo (GT) is a 4-door hatchback that shares elements of its basic design with BMW's large 7-Series cars. The GT has a different powertrain and styling when compared to the 5-Series wagon. The 2010 5-Series Gran Turismo comes as the rear-wheel drive 535i and 550i. The 535 is powered by a 300-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine. The 550i has a 400-horsepower turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. Both models use an 8-speed automatic transmission. This hatchback marks the first application of BMW's Brake Energy Regeneration System, which is designed to save fuel by allowing the alternator to charge the battery only when the vehicle is decelerating or braking. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Available features include BMW's Active Roll Stabilization, which is designed to counteract body lean in turns. Also offered is BMW's Integral Active Steering, which includes speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering; Dynamic Damping Control adaptive suspension; and Driving Dynamics Control, which allows drivers to adjust throttle response, steering assist, and transmission programming. Standard seating is for five, with the rear seat being a 40-20-40 split bench that can slide fore and aft up to 3.9 inches to benefit passenger or cargo space. An optional Luxury Rear Seating Package decreases seating capacity to four but includes power-adjustable rear seats, a full-length center console, power rear sunshades, and four-zone automatic climate control. A panoramic sunroof and a navigation system are standard on the 550i.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium-Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium-Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars.

Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G37, Jaguar XF, and Volkswagen CC. Our Recommended picks are the Audi A6, Lexus ES 350, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo V70.

New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, Infiniti G37 convertible, Lexus ES 350, Lincoln MKZ, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The Cadillac CTS gains a 4-door wagon body style for 2010.