Best Car Reviews - 2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo

Introduction

The 2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo offers a captivating blend of luxury and practicality, aimed specifically at drivers who appreciate both performance and comfort in a large car. Released in 2011, the 535i Gran Turismo targets those seeking a versatile vehicle capable of handling long road trips and bustling city streets with equal finesse. Its unique design and standout features distinguish it from other large cars, asserting its position as a luxury vehicle that doesn’t compromise on utility.

Design and Exterior Features

The BMW 535i Gran Turismo boasts an elegant yet aggressive exterior that embodies the quintessential aesthetics expected from BMW. Its dynamic shape and expressive styling make it a noticeable presence on the road.

• Sleek fastback silhouette with a hatchback-style trunk.
• Iconic kidney grille flanked by adaptive xenon headlights.
• Integrated spoiler and chrome exhaust tips enhancing its sporty look.
• Distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels offering both stability and style.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the 535i Gran Turismo is a testament to BMW's commitment to luxury and comfort. The cabin layout is thoughtfully designed with high-quality materials and a range of features to enhance the driving experience.

• Upholstered with premium Dakota leather and high-grade plastics.
• Generous legroom in both front and rear seats, characteristic of larger cars.
• Panoramic sunroof providing an airy feel to the cabin.
• Dual-zone climate control and ambient lighting options to fine-tune comfort.

Performance and Handling

Powered by a robust 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, the 2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo is not only about luxury but also thrilling performance. It offers 300 horsepower, seamlessly delivered through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

• Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.3 seconds, offering a brisk and responsive drive.
• Rear-wheel drive configuration ensures balanced handling and agility on both city streets and highways.
• Improved fuel efficiency of 12.4 l/100 km considering its class and performance.
• Adaptive suspension system for a smooth driving experience.

Technology and Connectivity

Emphasizing advanced technology and connectivity, the 535i Gran Turismo comes equipped with features aimed at enhancing both convenience and safety.

• iDrive infotainment system with a 10.2-inch display.
• Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration with devices.
• Navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
• Harman Kardon surround sound system providing rich audio experience.
• Optional head-up display available.

Safety Features

BMW has equipped the 535i Gran Turismo with a suite of safety features, focusing on both active and passive safety to ensure peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

• Advanced airbags and side curtain airbags for comprehensive coverage.
• Stability and traction control ensuring optimal handling.
• Adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
• Front and rear parking sensors to assist in tight spots.
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and blind-spot monitoring.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo starts at approximately $56,000 USD. Given its luxury status and feature set, it competes with other high-end vehicles in its class.

• Available in different trims with varying levels of equipment.
• Priced competitively against rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and Audi A7.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Superior ride quality with adaptive suspension.
• Elegant and spacious interior design.
• Innovative cargo space with dual-access tailgate.
• High crash safety ratings and advanced driver aids.
• Impressive acceleration for its size.

Cons

• Fuel efficiency could be better for city driving.
• Complex iDrive system with a steep learning curve.
• Slightly higher maintenance costs compared to some rivals.
• Pricey optional features may elevate overall cost.
• Rear visibility may be hindered by fastback design.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The annual maintenance cost for the BMW 535i Gran Turismo can range around $1,200, depending on usage and location.

• Oil leaks from gasket and valve cover.
• Issues with the turbocharger leading to reduced performance.
• Electrical system malfunctions impacting auxiliary features.
• Suspension component wear over time.
• Fuel pump concerns leading to potential stalling.

Rating

Based on various factors, here is the breakdown of the 2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo rating:

• Design: 9/10
• Comfort: 9/10
• Performance: 8/10
• Technology: 8/10
• Safety: 9/10

Overall Rating: 8.6/10

User Reviews and Feedback

1. "I've owned mine for 5 years, and it’s been a fantastic utility vehicle without compromising style."
2. "The fuel efficiency could be better, but the performance and comfort make up for it."
3. "Maintenance can become expensive, yet the driving experience is unmatched."
4. "I love the dual access trunk system for its practicality!"
5. "The technology, though plentiful, takes some getting used to, especially for newcomers to BMW."

Best cars in this category

• 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
• 2011 Audi A7
• 2011 Lexus GS 350
• 2011 Infiniti M37
• 2011 Jaguar XF

Summary

The 2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo is ideally suited for those who value a seamless blend of luxury, performance, and versatility. While it may have steeper maintenance costs and a learning curve for its tech features, the overall premium experience it offers justifies these aspects. This vehicle brings a potent mix of performance specs, luxurious comforts, and savvy technologies which make it a compelling choice among large luxury cars.