Modern style meets high mpgs in BMW 535d xDrive (pictures)
BMW gives its 5 Series a diesel engine and all-wheel-drive, creating a car with excellent fuel economy, power, and handling.
BMW's 5 Series was updated with a new platform in 2010, but the company continues to add features and engine choices.
As the 535d xDrive, new for the 2014 model year, the car gets a diesel engine and all-wheel drive.
The 535d xDrive shows class BMW styling, such as the Hofmeister kink in the side graphic.
For its diesel engine, BMW includes an emissions cleaning system that uses a fluid called AdBlue.
Under the hood is an inline 3-liter six-cylinder diesel engine, with a twin-scroll turbocharger.
The model shows the optional LED headlights.
BMW keeps its cabin styling simple in this M Sport Line model 535d xDrive.
Metal trim shows organic curves across the dashboard and door.
BMW tunes its electric power steering for heft, requiring deliberate input to turn the wheel.
Paddles behind the wheel activate manual shifts for the eight-speed sport automatic transmission.
The drive selector sits on the console, next to BMW's latest iDrive controller dial.
BMW stack the items on its main menu instead of using an icon-based interface.
A new feature for iDrive, users can trace letters on a touchpad set into the controller dial.
Navigation maps show excellent and refined detail, with explicit directions on the right.
The navigation system downloads street views.
BMW Online includes a number of external data sources downloaded through the car's native connection.
Integrated Yelp search shows nearby businesses with cumulative ratings.
With the BMW Connected app running on a connected smartphone, the display shows a Twitter feed.
An abundance of music sources includes onboard storage, USB drives, iOS devices, HD radio, and a number of music streaming apps.