Elevation Series

Elevation Series

2011 BMW 5 SERIES GRAN TURISMO

Depending on the options and packages, the GT will be riding on 18- to 21-inch wheels. The GT will be offered with three engine choices - a twin-turbo six-cylinder generating 306 horsepower, BMW's 407 horsepower 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 and a turbo-diesel (Europe only) making 245 horsepower. Not surprisingly the V8 model will be the hot rod of the bunch, checking in with a zero-to-60 time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.

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BMW 5-Series gran turismo (2011)

All models will use an eight-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels.

In order to ensure the 5-Series GT handles like a true BMW, the new PAV comes equipped with the automaker's Dynamic Drive Control, while the optional Adaptive Drive further ensures the GT's sporty nature.

Interior touches include an optional panoramic sunroof, fully adjustable rear seats and a dual-function trunk lid -- the latter intended to open wide for larger object but keep the cabin isolated when a standard trunk opening will do.

In true premium car fashion, the 5-Series GT has a number of available features, including BMW's ConnectedDrive, a unique feature that includes Cruise Control with Stop and Go, a High-Beam Assistant, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, Side View, Top View and a back-up camera.
The Basics:

The BMW 5-Series mid-size sport sedan has been completely redesigned for 2011, and it's more of a driver's car than the outgoing 2010 5-Series—or most other mid-size luxury sedans—while still upping the technology ante and not forgetting about the comfort and luxury that matters.

There's no wagon version of the 5-Series model this time around; instead, the striking 5-Series Gran Turismo blends some station wagon and SUV cues into a shape that's not quite sedan or crossover. In the Gran Turismo, the elevated backseat space is excellent—limousine-like by most accounts—and the tailgate can be opened in two different ways. Powertrains for the GranTurismo are essentially the same, but a different suspension setup means it doesn't handle nearly as well as the 5-Series sedan.

Despite being predictably conservative with the 5-Series, BMW has made the new model feel a little sportier and more expressive than the 5-Series it's replacing. When you take advantage of all of the technical achievements that are available with the Sport Package or as options—you don't have to drive fast or aggressively to enjoy them—you get a true sport sedan that will greatly satisfy you, your passengers, and your inner tech geek.
Likes:

De-Bangled lines

Simpler, more appealing dash

Revamped iDrive

More direct driving experience

Flexible backseat and innovative cargo area (Gran Turismo)

Dislikes:

Grabby brakes at low speed

Tech goodies have a learning curve

Gran Turismo's handling

Buying Tips:

Check with your insurance agent; some of the active-safety options available on the 2011 BMW 5-Series might help earn you reductions on your premium.

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