2014 BMW 535d – First Look and Review – The Diesel Driver – The Joy of Diesel Driving

The 535d is equipped with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder, 24-value engine with Bosch common-rail direct injection that develops 255 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 413 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm. BMW estimates that the 535d will get an EPA rating of 38 mpg highway (6.18 l/100 km).  It’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission programmed to take advantage of the diesel’s power.  A manual transmission is not offered.

It’s important to note that what is sold in the U.S. as the 535d is the 530d in other markets, and that there is a separate and somewhat more powerful 535d model that is also available in many parts of the world.  By means of explanation and comparison, the BMW 535d in Germany develops 313 horsepower and 464 pound-feet of torque compared to the 530d.  Fuel economy figures are slightly lower on the 535d.

The 535d also gets most of the automaker’s energy-saving EfficientDynamics technologies including auto start-stop, brake energy regeneration, and Driving Dynamics Control, which gives the driver the opportunity to select Comfort, Sport, Sport+, or Eco Pro modes. Other EfficientDynamics features include demand-dependent ancillary components and active flap control.  Lower weight is achieved through doors, hood, front side panels, drivetrain, and suspension components made of aluminum.

The 535d is not only equipped with super-efficient eight-speed automatic transmission but also with electro-mechanical power steering, which further contributes to fuel economy.

Eco Pro helps one drive more economically by changing throttle response and other vehicle settings including air conditioning.  Eco Pro also coaches the driver with operating suggestions and informs the driver how much better (or worse) his fuel economy is getting in the course of a drive.  I typically found I was on the plus side of the equation when using it.

EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR

The 535d’s introduction is concomitant with the launch of a refreshed 5 Series design, both inside and out.  The 5 Series was all-new for 2010 and BMW always performs a significant update (in BMW terminology, a lifecycle impulse or LCI) at the halfway point.  In the case of the 5er, the visual changes are fairly minor.

The front has acquired a sportier look and the rear appears wider thanks to an extra crease in the apron and the slimmer and more contoured taillights.  Four new colors have been added, namely Calisto Grey metallic, Jacobi metallic, Mineral White metallic, and Glacier Silver metallic.  In addition, buyers can order cars in one of three “lines,” the Luxury Line, the Modern Line, and M Sport, similar to how the 3 Series is offered.

The 2014 5 Series comes with an updated iDrive, version 4.2.  The redesigned system features a new cockpit controller with a built-in touchpad that allows the driver to input information for destinations, phone numbers, and other functions.  In addition, BMW ConnectedDrive now offers a dictation feature for sending text messages and e-mail.

Navigation is now standard, as is the BMW Apps option. Several new options are now available, including a virtual foot pedal that closes the trunk lid (previously the function just opened it), Adaptive LED headlights, and a new, tablet-like entertainment system for rear seat passengers.

Click here to continue to Page 3 – Driving the BMW 535d and Fuel Economy

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