BMW 523i 2012 ( Gold Package )

The 2012 BMW 5-Series appears somewhat conservative on the outside, but it packs an armada of advanced-tech firepower, and new fuel-efficient engines, without interrupting its sport-sedan mission.

The 2012 BMW 5-Series is a line of stylish mid-size sport sedans. Tjey focus on efficient performance and advanced high-tech features but BMW hasn’t forgotten about luxury and comfort.

BMW redesigned the 5-Series models for 2011. The new version is intended to be more of a driver’s car than the former (E60) version that was sold through 2010. At the same time, BMW has made some serious steps toward making the latest 5er more fuel-efficient without compromising performance. Some U.S. 5-Series models adopt a new 2.0-liter turbocharged, direct-injected 4-cylinder in the 528i.

The new 528i, which we hadn’t yet driven at the time of posting, makes 240 horsepower, and its peak torque is reached at just 1,250 rpm; the model also comes with Auto Start/Stop technology, which smartly shuts off the engine at stoplights, along with Brake Energy Regeneration and other fuel-saving tech, to yield EPA ratings of 23 mpg city, 34 highway. The 528i is offered with either rear- or all-wheel drive (xDrive), and joins the 535i and 550i models, powered by turbo V-6 and V-8 engines, respectively. The top 400-horsepower, 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine can launch the 5-Series to 60 mph in about five seconds, but most will be happy with the 535i and its 300-hp, turbocharged six. The 5-Series is the rare mid-size luxury car to retain manual transmissions on the options list.

The high-tech hardware could overload the car, but the 5-Series fends off artificial feel with good tuning. The steering is about the best in its class, with natural on-center feel, lots of feedback in corners, and on some models, rear-wheel steering that lightens the parking-lot load.

Driving Dynamics Control helps the 5-Series fit your need, whether that’s taking on a canyon road or bringing the kids to school. With four settings-Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+-it affects throttle response, steering assist, and transmission shift points, as well as the performance of these active suspension systems, so there’s a dramatic difference in overall feel just from Comfort to Sport. Sport+ allows a separate mode that some might appreciate for track driving.