First off the 2011 BMW 5 Series is not an M3 as it should not be. The 5 series is definitely much more of an executive cruiser than balls to the wall track machine. Not that the M3 was not completely capable of daily driving. Actually it was an excellent day to day driver but the 535i is much more luxurious and creature comfort type of vehicle where as the M3 is a redline let’s hear that engine scream every chance you get romance.
Styling:
Exterior styling is definitely much more pleasing to the eye in person than pictures suggest. The car is actually full of lines and carries a very nice stance that you would never really notice in pictures. The car also looks much better in my opinion with the larger 19” wheels.
Interior styling is very elegant and has a very nice feel to it. I must also emphasize that the Nappa leather definitely to me has a much higher quality feel and look to it compared to the Dakota leather. Electronic and creature comforts are no comparison to the M3 as the new 5 series has raised the bar.
Example of the quality and look of the Nappa Leather.
Good photo of the Light Wood option.
Integrated Smartphone Option: Pricey but very convenient.
Performance:
Engine performance of the 535i is actually much better than I anticipated. Around town the low RPM torque actually gives it a feeling of almost more power than the M3. On the highway it pulls very nicely but does not compare at all to the high RPM pull of the brilliant M3 motor. Steering performance which has been a very hot topic is well warranted. The steering is much more vague compared to the M3’s direct connection with the road but as I drive it more it should be as this is not meant to compete with the M3. The Dynamic damping does make things more direct and connected but the changes are fairly subtle but nice to have that options it offers.
Conclusion:
In conclusion I am very happy with the new 535i as it is what I was looking for in a day to day driver. It is a beautiful luxurious car that still has enough performance that makes it a joy to drive in a more relaxed and comfortable way compared to my M3.
My car's configuration:
535i Sedan Details
3.0 liter, 6-cylinder engine with TwinPower Turbo technology
Rear-wheel drive
Space Gray Metallic
Oyster and Black Nappa Leather
Light wood trim
Cold Weather Package
Dynamic Handling Package
Premium Package
Premium Package 2
Sport Package
Sport automatic transmission with shift paddles
Comfort Access keyless entry
Smartphone Integration