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The 2009 BMW 5 Series

The 2009 5 Series is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan, luxury sports sedan, or luxury wagon, available in 6 trims, ranging from the 528i Sedan to the 550i Sedan.

Upon introduction, the 528i Sedan is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 230-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 550i Sedan is equipped with a standard 4.8-liter, V8, 360-horsepower engine that achieves 15-mpg in the city and 22-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2009 BMW 5 Series

 

Woodcliff Lake , New Jersey , October 31, 2008 … With last year's significant freshening and major boost in power and efficiency for its 6-cylinder models, BMW's 2009 5 Series Sedans and Sport Wagon maintain their place at the forefront of the mid-size luxury class. The 550i continues for those with a yen for V8 performance.

 

For 2009, the BMW 5 Series will experience a few equipment changes: new standard wheels on the 528i and 528i xDrive models (17” Light alloy Double-spoke wheels with all-season tires), and on the 535i and 535i xDrive models (17” Light alloy V-spoke wheels with all-season tires).

 

As with the previous model year, the 2009 5 Series models feature the engines introduced in the 3 Series: the 230-horsepower iteration of BMW's remarkable aluminum/magnesium composite N52 engine, which appears in the 528i and 528i xDrive Sedans (starting at $45,500); and the 300-horsepower N54 twin-turbo inline-6 that appears in the 535i and 535i xDrive Sedans (starting at $50,800) and Sports Wagon (starting at $55,400). The 550i Sedan (starting at $60,000) is available again for 2009, retaining the 360-horsepower 4.8-liter V-8 engine of the previous year.

 

Performance features include the quick-shifting Sport Automatic transmission for the rear-drive 535i and 550i Sedans, as part of the Sport Package, which also provides fingertip shift control via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. For 2009, new standard wheel options are available for each of the inline 6 vehicles with the 528i and 528i xDrive models receiving new 17-inch light alloy Double-spoke wheels with all-season tires; and the 535i and 535i xDrive models coming with 17-inch light alloy V-spoke wheels with all-season tires. The Sport Package brings 18-inch wheels and run-flat performance tires to all 6-cylinder models, including staggered-width 18-inch tires on the 535i Sedan . The same 18-inch wheel and tire option is also available on Sport Package-equipped 535i xDrive models as a further extra-cost addition.

 

Typical of BMW and as in the previous model year, technological features flourish throughout the 2009 5 Series. Among these is BMW's Lane Departure Warning system, a camera-based system that monitors lane placement and discreetly notifies the driver via mild steering wheel vibration of any motions that might indicate an inadvertent lane change. The convenience of Active Cruise Control is extended via the Stop and Go feature, which enables the system to function even in heavy traffic. Active Cruise Control allows the vehicle to come to a complete stop without losing its setting, then accelerate back up to set speed with only a touch of the accelerator pedal from the driver. Audio options include a USB Adapter for an iPod or MP3 player. And BMW's leading-edge iDrive system adds a row of programmable “favorites” buttons, which can be used for anything from radio-station presets to pre-programmed destinations with the optional navigation system.

 

The 2009 BMW 5 Series continues to assert itself as class leader in the midsize performance-luxury field.

 

Power & performance features:

A powerful base engine, twin-turbo performance and a superlative V-8 all complement the most sophisticated chassis in the class.

BMW's engines have become legendary for their performance, smoothness, and sophistication—attributes that apply equally well to BMW's inline-6s and V-8s. The
5 Series offers three of these engines—two 6-cylinders and one V-8. From the base 528i to the range-topping 550i, the 5 Series offers the most impressive range of powerplants in the class, all backed by 6-speed transmissions, manual or automatic.

 

As the first full-production aluminum/magnesium composite engine ever offered, the 3.0-liter N52 inline-6 carries on BMW's tradition of building cutting-edge engines that combine outstanding power, unparalleled refinement and excellent fuel economy. The 230 horsepower 528i/xDrive Sedans are the most powerful entry-level 5 Series ever offered. Similarly, the new 300 horsepower twin-turbo 535i/xDrive Sedans and Sports Wagon are the quickest 6-cylinder-powered 5 Series cars yet. And the range-topping 550i continues to offer V-8 performance as the X5 xDrive48i.

 

These exemplary engines reside in a chassis that includes aluminum suspension; large-diameter disc brakes; performance tires on 17-, 18- or 19-inch wheels; and options such as Active Steering and Active Roll Stabilization. With either xDrive all-wheel-drive or traditional rear-drive, the 5 Series sets the standard for handling, ride and braking for the class.

 

BMW's inline 6-cylinder engines: Class-leading distinction, performance and efficiency

• Unparalleled smoothness and sound

• A distinction from the multitude of V-6 engines on the market

Almost all vehicle manufacturers of 6-cylinder engines have adopted the V-6 format, whose compactness is advantageous in small or midsize cars with front-wheel drive. By contrast, BMW's inline 6-cylinder engines are outstanding for their smoothness and sound, and BMW customers treasure them for these attributes. Thus BMW retains the inline format while developing it toward reduced weight, more compact dimensions – and ever more brilliant performance, smoothness and sound. An increase in fuel efficiency and even tighter control of emissions were also set as goals for this BMW engine generation, which currently powers the 2009 528i/xDrive 6-cylinder models.

 

N52 engine: magnesium/aluminum composite construction and Valvetronic variable valve lift

As the “base” 5 Series powerplant, the N52 engine offers a wide variety of benefits in the 528i and 528i xDrive Sedans. In addition to offering a further development of BMW's traditional inline 6-cylinder engine, the aluminum/magnesium composite construction reduces weight compared to an all-aluminum design, which also enhances vehicle weight distribution. The Valvetronic variable valve lift improves performance and fuel efficiency, while detail refinements such as an electric water pump and volume-controlled oil pump also increase efficiency. The result is an engine that retains the legendary smoothness of BMW's inline 6-cylinder engines, while offering an outstanding balance of performance and fuel efficiency.

 

N54 engine: twin turbocharging, piezo direct fuel injection, high

compression ratio

As BMW's other approach to modern 6-cylinder power, the N54 is as innovative as the N52 engine, though these different innovations are aimed at further increasing performance. A pair of relatively small turbochargers boosts performance significantly, but minimizes the traditional turbocharger response lag (“turbo-lag”). In addition, high-precision direct fuel injection further enhances performance and fuel efficiency. Finally, high-tech heat-resistant materials in the engine help facilitate performance. With the N52 naturally aspirated engine and this even-newer N54 turbocharged unit, BMW has announced to the world its approach to high performance: Instead of ever-larger engines, BMW achieves its performance goals with smaller, lighter, more efficient and cleaner-running engines.

 

The 550i's V-8

The 550i's predecessor was widely acclaimed mostly by those who drove or tested the V8 5 Series, not merely for its strong, fuel-efficient power, but also for its highly pleasing sound. Car and Driver (May ' 04) summed it up as “among the friendliest, most enthusiastic engines in existence.”

 

With 4.8 liters, the 550i's V-8 delivers brilliant performance. Peak power is 360 hp; likewise, peak torque is 360 lb-ft. With its standard 6-speed manual transmission the 550i attains 60 mph in just 5.4 sec. from rest; with automatic, the new model reaches 60 mph in 5.5 sec.

 

Dynamic Stability Control: remarkable braking functions

All BMW models are standard-equipped with Dynamic Stability Control, which provides a wide range of traction and stability functions.

 

While retaining all the functions of the previous DSC, a revised system appeared in the 5 Series and other BMWs in 2006. This Enhanced DSC adds a wide array of customer-relevant functions that make driving even safer and more pleasant, including: Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Standby, Brake Drying, Comfort Stop, Start-off Assistant, and a Modulated ABS function. “Analogized” control of the DSC brake valves makes the anti-lockup function (ABS) smoother. Instead of simply being fully on or off, application and release of these valves are now modulated.

 

State-of-the-art safety and security features

In terms of safety and security, the 5 Series is a state-of-the-art vehicle from a state-of-the-art vehicle maker. With an extensive array of standard features, and such available options as the Lane Departure Warning system, Night Vision and Head-up Display, the 2009 5 Series remains an industry leader and fully representative of BMW's safety values. Key standard features include:

Dual front-impact Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) with dual-threshold deployment, 2-stage Smart Airbags – optimized for shape and deployment characteristics.

Front safety belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters – standard on all models.

Rear safety belts with automatic tensioners – included with the optional rear-seat side-impact airbags.

Automatic-locking retractors (ALR) on all passenger safety belts for installation of child restraint seats.

LATCH attachments at the outboard rear seating positions for child restraint seats.

Front-seat side-impact airbags – standard.

Rear-seat side-impact airbags – optional at nominal extra cost, so that customers can make their own choice in this matter.

Head Protection System – front-to-rear via BMW's Inflatable Tubular concept; a long airbag deploys from the ceiling, suspended on a “sail.”

Active front head restraints – included with the front Multi-contour seats that are optional in all 5 Series models. Responding to impact sensors at the rear of the vehicle, the head restraints instantly pivot forward into close proximity with the occupants' heads. Thus occupants are able, if they prefer, to adjust the restraints away from direct contact with their heads, yet gain optimum protection against whiplash or more serious head/neck injuries.

Energy-absorbing padding of body-pillar and roof areas – specific padding at the A-, B- and C-pillars as well as along the roof above the doors.

Fuel-tank design and location. Not only is the fuel tank designed to remain sealed even in severe impacts, its location has been chosen to provide optimum protection from impacts.

Battery Safety Terminal – in case of a severe accident impact, breaks the high-current connection between the battery and starter cable. This helps prevent a possible short circuit in the electrical system.

Automatic fuel-pump shutoff upon severe accident impact. In addition, the doors are automatically unlocked; the interior lighting and 4-way hazard flashers are switched on. Thus even after an accident, BMW's safety strategy is still at work.

Coded Driveaway Protection – BMW's rolling-code engine immobilizer.

Central locking system with double-lock feature. When the vehicle is locked from the outside, the double-lock feature prevents individual door-lock buttons from being pulled up; thus even if a thief has broken into the car, it isn't possible to open the doors. Owners, however, have access to information on how to get out if one is locked in the vehicle from the outside.

Alarm system with interior motion detector – standard on the 5 Series.

 

Options: possibilities new and familiar

As with the previous model year, the 2009 5 Series brings with it significant technological options that complement an already extensive array of performance, comfort and safety features.

 

STEPTRONIC automatic transmission – 6-speed, like all 5 Series transmissions.

Sport Automatic transmission – 535i and 550i Sedans only; requires the Sport Package. An even sportier alternative to the standard STEPTRONIC Sport setting, this 6-speed transmission offers crisper gearshifts in manual mode, and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. A leather boot around the console shifter also distinguishes this transmission from the standard STEPTRONIC.

 

Lane Departure Warning. A camera mounted on the windshield near the rearview mirror monitors lane position at all times at highway speeds. The central control unit projects the vehicle's path based on that position. When the system projects that the vehicle will drift out of the lane, it will warn the driver by producing a mild vibration in the steering wheel. The warning is cancelled by the use of the turn signals, brake actuation, and below approximately 35 mph, indicating city traffic. The system can also be turned off via a switch on the multi-function steering wheel or in the iDrive menu.

 

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Employing a radar sensor unit at the front of the vehicle, ACC senses the speed of vehicles traveling ahead, adjusts the BMW driver's speed to maintain following distance, and offers the driver additional control choices over the standard cruise control. With the added feature of Stop & Go, which allows use in heavy traffic, the system can come to a complete stop and remain active; a touch of the accelerator pedal by the driver reactivates the cruise control so it can resume the set speed.

 

Active Steering. Offered on RWD models only; offers unique benefits:

• Widely variable steering ratio; steering-wheel movements for parking maneuvers, U-turns and sharp corners are greatly reduced for amazing agility. With increasing vehicle speed, the steering becomes “slower,” favoring stability over agility.

• Vehicle stabilization; in critical situations, can intervene to preserve stability. For example, if the driver applies the brakes while driving on a surface with uneven traction (one side of the road slick, the other grippy), Active Steering can recognize incipient instability and steer against it.

 

Park Distance Control employs ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers to detect obstacles not visible to the driver; emits an acoustic warning. Includes a vehicle diagram in the iDrive display which graphically depicts obstacles' locations. Standard on 550i.

 

Xenon Adaptive headlights with auto-leveling and low-speed cornering lights. Stronger, daylight-like illumination; headlights “steer” to enhance the driver's view around curves and corners. This year adds low-speed cornering lights in the inboard headlamps, which illuminate nearby objects at speeds below 25 mph. Optional on 528i/xDrive models, standard on 535i/xDrive models and 550i.

 

Leather upholstery – though included in the Premium Package, also available as a stand-alone option. Standard on 550i.

 

Light Poplar wood interior trim. The Light Poplar offers the same attractively grained wood as the standard Dark Poplar, but with a more subtle effect.

 

Bamboo wood interior trim. Another distinctive wood grain, Bamboo provides an especially distinctive and contemporary look, harmonizes well with all interior colors, and is an eco-friendly, renewable resource.

 

20-way front Multi-contour seats. In addition to the standard seats' 10-way power adjustments, the 20-way power adjustments of these remarkable and comprehensive luxury seats include –

• Thigh support

• Angle of articulated upper backrest section, independently from overall backrest angle

• Backrest width (the backrests' side bolsters spread or narrow to accommodate the occupants' back and shoulders)

• 4-way power lumbar support, which is standard in the 535i/xDrive models and 550i.

 

Split folding rear seats and ski bag for the Sedans.

 

Heated front seats as a stand-alone option.

 

Heated rear seats , available for all models in combination with the Cold Weather Package.

 

BMW On-board Navigation System. The standard iDrive system has a 6.5-in. control display (color monitor) at dash center and a turn-and-push controller between the front seats. This option includes an 8.5-in., higher-resolution control display plus:

• GPS Navigation with DVD database

• Standard controller, plus Voice Command activation of features

• Real Time Traffic Information, which provides up-to-the-minute information on traffic and road conditions

 

Head-up Display – displays important driving-related information on a 6 x 3-in. field in the windshield, just below the driver's normal line of sight to the road ahead:

• Check Control and On-board Computer warnings, prioritized according to their urgency, such as vehicle defects, engine-oil level, and low windshield-washer fluid

• Navigation instructions

• Cruise-control set speed (standard or Active Cruise Control)

• Current vehicle speed.

 

Logic7 premium stereo. The optional Logic7 premium audio system delivers audiophile-quality sound via a digital Surround Sound process, utilizing 13 high-quality speakers, Digital Sound Processing and increased audio power.

 

Sirius Satellite Radio. An appealing path to entertainment, news and information channels. After the first year of ownership, a subscription fee is required for Sirius service.

 

High-Definition HD Radio. Offers enhanced digital sound quality; FM reception becomes CD quality while AM reception becomes equivalent to analog FM reception. There are over 1,000 radio stations nationwide that currently offer high-definition broadcasts.

 

iPod/USB adapter. A separate USB adaptor for iPods or MP3 players, which does not use the CD changer connections, provides a convenient audio connection.

 

Power rear-window and manual rear side-window sunshades. For the Sedans, the option includes both; for the Sports Wagon, only the side-window shades. The power rear-window shade is controlled from a console switch; the side-window shades are easily raised or lowered by rear-seat passengers.

 

BMW Ultimate Service TM :

Providing owners with incredible value and peace of mind

The 2009 BMW 5 Series will feature BMW Ultimate Service TM , a suite of services that includes the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance), Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW Assist TM with TeleService is standard on all 5 Series models.

 

BMW Ultimate Service TM includes:

The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads and rotors for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items.

 

BMW Roadside Assistance is one of the industry's most comprehensive plans available. Not only is it no-charge for the first 4 years, but there is no mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, anywhere in the United States , Canada and Puerto Rico . This includes everything from flat tire changes, emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also includes valuable trip routing advice.

 

BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty : All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW's excellent Limited Warranty, which includes:

• New-vehicle warranty – 4-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle.

• Rust-perforation warranty – 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage.

 

BMW Assist TM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth ® System is standard and includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations.

 

The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology and hands-free communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center . A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function. The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo , which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW.

 

TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when the vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready.

 

BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of many BMW Assist concierge services, from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times , as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. On 2007 and later models, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system and the customer's Bluetooth linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option . New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged.

 

Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via the steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone.

The 2009 BMW 5 Series

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