top6491

With gas prices the way they are and my 2005 545 costing more to repair lately than I care for, I'm looking at 2012 models. While an M-Sport 535i was sure fun to drive, I tried a 528 and was not too dissapointed. While it obviously doesn't have the power of the 535, (much less my 545) it seemed quick enough for driving even here in San Diego traffic. But, that was just one short test drive. Anyone here make that switch and have anys comments from experience?

luigi524td

Maybe not the same scenario but about 4 years ago I downsized from a string of e32's & e38's 7 series to my 530xi. I really missed the torque of a V-8. And even with my driving style I gained on average 3-5 mpg better overall comparing the V-8s to the normally aspirated 6 cyl. I still miss the pure thrust of the V-8 but around town and over the road it's fine.

Fast forward to today - I'm shopping to replace my '07 530xi and my options (as far as sedans go) are the new 4cyl turbo in the 528 or the turbo 6 in the 535. I tried to get comfortable in a 3 series but despite being a tad bigger than the previous models the rear seat was just too tight for my occasional (tall) passengers. So, I've taken a few test drives in the 528 All-Wheel. Here's my take - riding around it feels fine ... the moment you put your foot in it - the "buzziness" of the 4cyl comes right through ... I feel it in my hands on wheel - coming through the seat - I even feel it in my hair

It simply lacks the silkiness I've come to know after owning BMW since 1986. Yea I know it'll deliver such outstanding fuel economy that I'll save $500 a year in gasoline ... RIGHT - I'm dropping 60 large and getting all excited about about $500 a year in gasoline savings. Add to that, I'm not at all happy about the horrible reliability record of the turbo-6 equipped 535 series

So, guess what I'm toying with - The current X3 2.8 has a normally aspirated 6cyl - If I jump in now before it too will be mated to the same buzz-bucket 4cyl as the 528 has, properly equipped - even loaded with "M" trim stuff and all the good electronic toys it still stickers under 50K ... And for whatever they are worth the consumer rags are giving it good grades for reliability and overall performance in its class! I don't really need a mini-SAV but it might work for me and a bunch of others. At least until they downsize the motor!

That's my story and I'm sticking to it

turboawd

the 528i gets what, 32mpg on the highway....thats pretty impressive for a big luxury sedan. i've been eyeing them myself too.

top6491

That's why I want out of my 545i. I'm approaching 97K miles, have already put over $3500 in repairs just in the last few months, and am looking at probably another $1200-$1500 for gasket replacement. Overall, I've had more problems with this E60 than any other car I've owned, even at twice the length of time. While some repairs and maintenance are acceptable, the amount I've had are scary. Everything from transmission and motors mounts, fuel line leaks, break system problems, and numerous oil and cooland system leaks and issues, it adds up, plus I simply don't trust the car anymore, what's next???

So if the 535i is having problems, then it's not a real contender in my opinion. Any issues with the new 328s? Rear seat passengers are not an issue for me.

Ricracing

Say what, 0,60 ? cents a liter

It is now 1,5 ?/l in the EU = $2/l in US.

A gallon (about 3,6 l) = will be then $7.

Please be wise and prepared!

top6491

drove a GS 350 F Sport today, pretty impressive for a Lexus. It's on my short list. They had a 2011 IS-F w/ 5K miles for $60K, awful tempting.

Small Tomato

Talking of downsize the engine, I think Mercedes Benz is doing a great job for NOT going to turbo charging all their engines, see their 3.5 liter naturally aspirated engine on the current E class, which produces a healthy 306 horse power while the fuel consumption is just 9.5 liter / 100km for city driving. Although all of these are just data on paper but I deeply believe BMW can do a lot better in engine building rather than going through the turbo charging shortcut.

top6491

I drove both the 2012 E350 and C350 just recently. While the E350 is somewhat underpowered, is does well enough. It's the handling I'm still not a big fan of. The C350 drove great, has plenty of power and is nimble and tight. Also good looking. It's on my short list.