The styling of some cars can grow on you over time -- that's what's happened to this writer and the outgoing BMW 5 Series, a car that, especially in 550i guise with the M Sport Package, is stunning.
Of course, not all readers will agree. Some will celebrate the end of the line for the Bangled BMW. Regardless of where you stand on the current car, we can agree that the 2011 5 Series brings the midsize sedan more in-line with newer BMWs like the Z4 and 7 Series.
The 2011 BMW 5 Series has presence: The combination of a larger two-part grille and more subdued headlights than the current car create an "I mean business" look. Short front overhangs give the new car great proportions -- as before -- but now there's a stronger character line running just below the door handles from the front wheel well to the taillights.
The familiar Hoffmeister kink remains in the shape of the rear doors and L-shaped taillights make a return to the 5 Series. Perhaps the rear design is a look that will grow on us with time (or an in-person walk-around) but we prefer the rear three quarter view of the 2010 5 Series to the 2011 car. Like the 2010 5 Series, It's clear the 2011 car's taillights continue the 2010 5 Series' crisp three-bar light pattern -- if you've seen a 2010 BMW 5 Series at night, you've already seen them.From inside, current 5 Series owners should feel right at home, although the dash appears to be canted toward the driver more than in the outgoing car. Overall, both cars feature refined styling but it's a tough call determining which has a better design. What do you think?
source: motortrend
