Rants and Raves
JARED GALL
As phenomenal as BMW's new twin-turbo inline-six is, this V-8 is no slouch. It sounds great, pulls hard, and is very flexible. You can grunt around town at 30 mph in sixth gear turning just 1000 rpm, and when you want to pass somebody, the 550i accelerates smoothly, with no stuttering or lagging. Of course, it's not quick from that speed in sixth, but it doesn't complain. At lower speeds, the frenetic steering we noted on our drive of the 2008 5-series out west
stays well hidden, too.
There is, of course, the Monroney question. Is the 550i worth $9100 over the 535i? Nine grand for a V-8 soundtrack, better low-rpm lugging ability, and a few 10ths to 60? Even if it's not my own money, I'd say no. Then again, if I had more to waste, I might go for it.
DAVE VANDERWERP
With the '08 5-series refresh, it seems BMW is finally backing off the ridiculous beeping and bonging noises that previously accompanied pretty much anything you'd do: open a door, turn on the ignition, turn off the ignition, etc. When using the keyless system, our 550i was graciously mute. iDrive's programming has also been made slightly more friendly; one notable example is the ease of tuning the satellite radio.
Clutch engagement has been much improved—far smoother than an '07 650i I recently drove. It now happens without any surprise lurching. Driving dynamics are tops in the class (we highly recommend the Sport package), with excellent body control and readable steering. And the 19-inch wheels look absolutely fabulous, although that may be one of the only reasons to opt for the 550i over a 535i.
Download this car's window sticker for pricing information.
