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You can't miss it. The striking round showroom overlooking the intersection of I-35 and Shawnee Mission Parkway houses some of the world's most beautiful automobiles. Even the dealership itself is a design of beauty with a multi-floor circular indoor showroom. Worthy of housing one of the most desired automobile line; Baron BMW is worth a visit even if you are not in the market for a new vehicle. However if you are in the market for a premium sport sedan then BMW is most likely already on your list of places to visit. BMW has recently redesigned the 5 series and it was my pleasure to live with a new 2004 BMW 530i for a few days. Now in their 12th straight year of increasing sales, BMW divides its sedans into three distinctive segments, known as the 3, 5, and 7series. The 325i represents a wonderful entry-level sedan for around $28,000, while the largest 760li starts at slightly under $120,000. The mid range 5 Series underwent a complete redesign increasing length, width, and height, yet maintained a taught trim look. With an all aluminum front-end structure the new roomier 5 series is actually lighter than previous models. A different engine powers each of the three 5 Series personalities. The 525i starts at around $40,000 with the 2.5-liter 184-horsepower inline six-cylinder engine. For only $45,000 the new powerful 224 horsepower 3.0-Liter inline six cylinder powers the 530i sedan. And for about $55,000 you can get a sports upgraded 545i propelled by the 325 horsepower 4.4-Liter V-8. Our choice for this drive was the 2004 530i. This new look is a beautiful modern expression unmistakably BMW, from the "kidney" grill to the coveted BMW badge. Even the lighting is a study in integrated form and function wrapping around the edges for ultimate visibility. Adaptive brakelights employing light clusters whose active area increases under hard braking is an example of BMW's dedication to safety. And while the undeniable status of the BMW is apparent in the design, it was the driving experience that made me grin like a kid with a new toy. If you are in the market for this level of performance you might want to read up on the advantages of the full aluminum suspension, standard anti-roll bars and optional Active Roll Stabilization. But it is only behind the wheel that you'll discover the true passion of the 2004 BMW 530i. There are no words to explain the solid feel, the instant response and forgiving ride of this vehicle. Sure there are some vehicles with more luxury features and some with equal specifications, but the driving dynamics of the BMW are unique. Behind the wheel, there is no vehicle that surpasses the pure confidence this vehicle communicates. Of course this is a luxury vehicle and therefore it comes with an impressive list of standard features including a 10 speaker sound system. The programmable climate control system can be set to ventilate the car at preset times using the multi-function I-drive system. At first I did not understand the philosophy behind the optional packages. I couldn't understand why the contents of the Premium package (ZPP) and Cold Weather Package (ZCW) were optional while the Advanced Head Protection System was standard. Then I remembered the underlying philosophical difference Europeans have with American carmakers. While antilock brakes, side air bags, rain-sense wipers may be optional on some American cars; Europeans do not consider safety optional. The maple Wood trim and heated steering wheel can be optional, but not features that can save your life. I like that philosophy. This new 2004 BMW 530i is an exceptional vehicle from every viewpoint. It goes to the top of my personal list as one of the best sedan under $50,000.
2005 BMW 530i
Providing Dealer
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©2003 - Stan Risener