[aclockwrk]

After much consideration cross shopping quite a few cars (Audi S4, A6, A7, Mercedes CLS, E550) I decided the obvious choice was the F10 550i.

One of the main deciding factors was the availability of a manual transmission. Every year it seems the availability of a manual is less and less. Glad to see BMW still offering it on the 5 Series!

It took right about 9 weeks from the time of order to delivery. Not bad.

Finally took delivery of the 2012 BMW 550i M-Sport on 11/30
It's DGII with Black leather

I optioned it with the following:

Active Roll Stabilization (ARS)
Integral Active Steering
Heated front seats
Anthracite Wood Trim
BMW Apps
M Sport Package
Dynamic Damper Control
Premium Sound Package
Split folder rear seat

So far after about 120 miles absolutely no complaints.

I did notice that the center console cup holder is missing, but the dealer is working on getting me one.

I do have a question to folks that have the Integral Active Steering. In the trunk, the floor compartment all I see is batteries and wires when I lift it. There is no storage. I guess the additional hardware is needed for the rear steering. I expected it to have storage like the other 5 series I had seen.

As I put more miles I'll report back with an update.

I can't attach pictures for some reason. I'll try again later.