The New 2008 BMW 5 Series Sedan

Revolutionary performance; revelatory style.

Fresh ideas.

We've planted more power under the hood.

Fast company.

Manual, STEPTRONIC automatic, or Sport Automatic 6-speed transmission?

Freedom of choice.

In addition to color, upholstery and comfort features, BMW lets you...

Personalize your performance.

Enjoy inner control.

Luxury within your reach.

The driver-focused interior features a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls for audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth® connectivity. The dashboard houses a comprehensive instrument cluster and a central infotainment display, offering access to climate control, navigation, communication, and entertainment systems.

Portrait of a masterpiece: the 535i/535xi twin-turbo engine

This engine produces 300 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 300 lb-ft of torque from 1400 to 5000 rpm, offering strong acceleration in any gear. It utilizes twin parallel turbochargers for quick response, minimizing turbo lag. The engine features a lightweight aluminum block, piezo fuel injection for efficiency, Double-VANOS variable valve timing, and Valvetronic technology for improved breathing, power, and emissions. The inline-six configuration ensures smooth operation.

The 528i/528xi models are powered by a 230-horsepower engine with 200 lb-ft of torque, featuring a lightweight composite magnesium/aluminum engine block for spirited acceleration and nimble handling.

The 550i Sedan boasts a 4.8-liter V-8 engine generating 360 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 360 lb-ft of torque at 3400 rpm. It includes a two-stage intake manifold for optimized power delivery across the rev range.

Transmission options include a standard 6-speed manual, an optional STEPTRONIC automatic with an electronic shift knob, and an available Sport Automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the 535i and 550i.

Diagram description: A visual representation of the 535i/535xi twin-turbo engine, showing the placement of the two turbochargers. Accompanying this is a graph illustrating the engine's power and torque output across different RPM ranges.

The challenge: Increased power and torque. Decreased 0-60 times. The result: Mission accomplished.

Because slippery roads love to throw you a curve: The 5 Series Sedan with xDrive all-wheel drive.

BMW's intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and agility on all road surfaces. It continuously monitors driving conditions using Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) sensors and gas pedal input to vary power distribution between the front and rear axles. This ensures agile, neutral, and forgiving handling, even in challenging conditions like wet uphill curves, by immediately sending more torque to the front axle to maintain stability and prevent wheelspin. If a wheel spins, brakes can be applied individually to bring all wheels back into sync.

Diagram description: An illustration of the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system integrated into the 5 Series Sedan chassis, showing the mechanical components and power flow to all four wheels.

Xenon Adaptive Headlights

Provide brilliant clarity for road illumination at night and in poor visibility. The dynamic auto-leveling feature adjusts headlights for varying loads, preventing glare for oncoming drivers. BMW Adaptive Headlights offer optimum cornering illumination via an electromechanical system that directs headlights into bends as the vehicle corners. (Standard on 535i/535xi and 550i; optional on 528i/528xi).

Adaptive Brake Lights

Increase vehicle visibility and signal the intensity of braking action.

Redesigned taillights

Add a fresh, dramatic flair with raised horizontal ribbing and restyled white reverse lights.

Two-way power glass moonroof

Features remote, expanded one-touch operation, an anti-trapping feature, and a sliding interior sunshade. It allows for increased fresh air and light, with a wind deflector to manage airflow.

Wheel Options

The 2008 BMW 5 Series Sedan offers a range of cast alloy wheels:

• 17 x 7.5 Star Spoke (Style 138) with 225/50R-17 all-season tires (Standard on 528i/528xi).
• 17 x 7.5 Star Spoke (Style 243) with 225/50R-17 all-season tires (Standard on 535i/535xi).
• 17 x 8.0 Star Spoke (Style 245) with 225/50R-17 all-season tires (Standard on 550i).
• 18 x 8.0 Star Spoke (Style 246) with 245/40R-18 run-flat performance tires (Included in 528i Sport Package; optional with 528xi Sport Package; spare is a space-saver wheel and tire).
• 18 x 8.0 front, 18 x 9.0 rear Star Spoke (Style 124) with 245/40 R-18 front, 275/35R-18 rear run-flat performance tires (Included in 535i Sport Package; optional with 535xi Sport Package; spare is a space-saver wheel and tire).
• 19 x 8.5 front, 19 x 9.5 rear Double Spoke (Style 172M) with 245/35R-19 front, 275/30R-19 rear performance tires (Included in 550i Sport Package; spare is a space-saver wheel and tire).

Note: Due to low-profile tires, wheels, tires, and suspension parts are more susceptible to road hazard and consequential damages. Performance tires are not recommended for driving in ice and snow.

550i Sport Package

The 550i Sport Package enhances the athletic character of the luxury-performance Sedan. Exterior upgrades include shadowline trim, larger cast alloy wheels with performance tires, and an aerodynamic package with revised front and rear fascias and lower side molding. A retuned sport suspension calibration and Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) provide enhanced stability and a track-bred feel. The exhaust system features a sportier sound with distinctive tips. Inside, the package includes a 3-spoke, leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel and 20-way power multi-contour front seats for superior comfort and support. The manual transmission option features a shorter gearshift throw.

Image description: A BMW 550i in Carbon Black Metallic, showcasing the aerodynamic package's front air dam and bumper, which emphasize the vehicle's purposeful stance and hint at the power of its V-8 engine.

The aerodynamic package's rear spoiler, bumper treatment, and lower side molding are complemented by the 19-inch Double-Spoke (Style 172M) cast alloy wheels with performance tires.

The 3-spoke leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel allows control of audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth® functions without removing hands from the wheel.

20-way power multi-contour front seats offer optimal lateral support and adjustability, including backrest, seat bottom angle, forward/backward and up/down positions, thigh, upper back, and lumbar support, as well as adjustable sides and active head restraints.

Image description: A rear view of the BMW 550i, highlighting the design of the 19-inch Double-Spoke (Style 172M) wheels and the aerodynamic enhancements.

Interior Trims & Combinations

The 5 Series Sedan offers a variety of interior materials and color combinations.

Upholstery and Exterior Color Combinations

Materials available include Leatherette (standard in 528i/528xi, 535i/535xi) and Dakota Leather (standard in 550i, optional in others). Upholstery colors include Beige, Black, Cream Beige, Gray, and Natural Brown. Exterior colors range from Alpine White and Jet Black to various metallic finishes like Titanium Silver, Platinum Gray, Space Gray, Platinum Bronze, Deep Sea Blue, Monaco Blue, Deep Green, Carbon Black, and Black Sapphire. Specific paint availability may vary by model and package.

Interior Trim Options

Available interior trims include Dark Poplar Wood (standard), Light Poplar Wood, and Bamboo Wood (no-cost options).

Key Features and Options

Performance and Efficiency

• Engines: 3.0L inline-6 (528i/xi), 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 (535i/xi), 4.8L V-8 (550i).
• Transmissions: Manual, STEPTRONIC automatic, Sport Automatic (with paddle shifters).
• Drive System: Rear-wheel drive standard; xDrive all-wheel drive standard on xi models.

Handling, Ride, and Braking

• Suspension: Aluminum double-pivot front, 4-link integral rear.
• Brakes: 4-wheel ventilated anti-lock disc brakes with Dynamic Brake Control.
• Optional: Sport suspension calibration, Retuned sport suspension calibration, Active Roll Stabilization (ARS).

Exterior and Aerodynamics

• Headlights: Xenon Adaptive Headlights with dynamic auto-leveling and cornering function (optional/standard depending on model).
• Brake Lights: Adaptive Brake Lights.
• Moonroof: Two-way power glass moonroof.
• Wheels: Various 17", 18", and 19" cast alloy wheel options.
• Aerodynamic Package: Available for 550i Sport Package.

Interior Seating and Comfort

• Upholstery: Leatherette or Dakota Leather.
• Seats: Standard power front seats, optional 20-way power multi-contour front seats.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control with separate zones.
• Audio: Premium audio systems including Logic7 surround sound, HD Radio™, SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
• Infotainment: iDrive system, optional Navigation system, Head-up Display, NightVision.

Safety and Security

• Airbags: Comprehensive SRS airbag system.
• Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
• Optional: Lane Departure Warning, BMW Assist™ with Bluetooth®.

Technical Data Highlights

Disclaimers and Notes

All dimensions are in inches and apply to models with standard wheels. Figures in parentheses apply to automatic transmission models if different from manual transmission.

Top speed is electronically limited. Fuel consumption figures are EPA-estimated for comparison purposes; actual mileage may vary. BMW urges adherence to all speed laws and use of safety belts.

BMW of North America, LLC reserves the right to make changes to colors, materials, equipment, specifications, and models without notice. This brochure is for informational purposes and should not replace information from an authorized BMW center or bmwusa.com.

The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and used under license by BMW.