2014 BMW 5 Series Facelift Test Drive by Edmunds

Edmunds.com test drives the 2014 BMW 5 Series 535d facelift powered by a 3.0 liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 254 horsepower and a 414 pound-feet of torque, with 0-62-mph sprint in just 5.3 seconds. Here is an excerpt from their review:

Torque Storm

We enjoyed the mounds of torque delivered by the oil-burning straight-6, finding it far more flexible than expected. To experience the full storm of its 414 lb-ft of torque it’s best to switch the eight-speed auto into Manual mode, select 2nd, slow to a 1,000-rpm crawl and crush the accelerator like an unwelcome cockroach.

There’s a brief gathering of speed until 1,500 rpm arrives, at which point the BMW hunkers down under the sheer force of torque muscling its way to the rear wheels, the ensuing surge as exciting as anything a gasoline engine can muster 4,000 rpm later.

Still more surprising, if you’re used to the historically compact rev ranges of older diesels, is that the thrust keeps on coming through to 5,000 rpm, before petering out over the final few hundred revs. This diesel is memorably quick and better yet, makes a smooth, low, muffled rumble that’s just as entertaining as the slightly synthetic-sounding crescendo of the 535i.

Upgraded Suspension
The 5′s chassis has also seen a light rethink in the form of retuned dampers for improved comfort, quietness and reduced roll, besides some fresh mapping of the electric power steering to sharpen its precision.

These dynamic upgrades are subtly apparent on the admittedly shelf-smooth Bavarian roads we sampled it on. The ride is smoother, the cabin is a little quieter and body sway, never a big issue in a 5 Series, is tightly controlled. The natural balance that comes from this car’s rear-drive layout makes it impressively wieldy through curves without feeling nervous.

Read full review at Edmunds