So I'm driving to Blockbuster video after work and I see what appears to be a beautiful jet black 545/550i about two cars in front of me. I pass the cars to get behind him - the sunlight was sparkling off of the badge and I could not see it until we came to the red light. Except... it was no 545/550i, it read 535d What the hell is a 535d doing in in SE Michigan. Well I look at the plates and it says manufacturer and it has test car #7 on its rear windshield with the slogan - reduced emissions program. Hope someday it's not just a test program.

 

I wonder if it's a biodiesel program.

 

I saw a post on here recently where a member had seen a 535d in Southern California too. Hopefully we're getting closer to getting the ability to get the diesel engines over here, but I can't imagine they would bring them over unless they can get 50 state legal. At least a couple of the states that (via the back door) pretty much legislate diesels out of the picture are some of the largest markets.

 

True but VW and MB both have diesels but don't sell them in states like NY and CA. I don't see why BMW couldn't do that same. It would be nice to see more engine options in the lineup.

 

I agree, trouble is that without those two markets there would likely be a greatly reduced return on the investment needed (by both BMW and its dealers) to bring over and offer the diesel models. Hopefully the nationwide changes in diesel fuel will help - would very much like to see the diesels in the lineup too.

 

Wooo test 535 cars here in the states! AWESOME!

 

What is 50 state legal? Why do they legislate diesels out?

We have a different problem here. I was unable to buy a diesel touring. BMW Australia simply don't and won't bring the diesel touring in, even though they bring the sedan. Reason is that the 5 series touring is a very low volume seller and they don't want to bring another model and have to go through all the compliance issues. Silly when you consider that the diesel is a logical choice for a wagon/touring, especially with petrol prices going up every month. Another problem here is the damn X5. Its super popular and costs way less than the 5 touring, even though of course 99% of them will never go offroad.

 

time for some 545i to get whooped hahha

 

Oh no! Not again?

Skaffa

 

50 State legal means that the car will comply with emissions rules in all 50 US states.

The X5 diesel would be logical as well. I would have loved a diesel in the X5 when we had it. And unlike the RR or G-Class, the X5 SHOULD NEVER go off road. It's a street car with no low range.