AWD 5 Series

[tonyarous]

Has anyone heard anything about a possible all-wheel drive version of the 5 series? I really want to get the 530 or 545, but the 330xi is tempting because of the AWD.

 

[Beemerworld]

Yes there are possibilities of AWD 5 series and M5 but personally I would not buy AWD as the car will understeer which is harder to control than the rear wheel drive. The front end will also get worn faster.

 

[tonyarous]

I live in New England on a steep hill that is impossible to drive up in more than 3 inches of snow without 4WD or AWD. Front-wheel does a decent job, but still isn't that great.

 

[donmbmw]

Haven't heard of any AWD 5 series other than the X5. But I could never really understand why someone would want an AWD Bimmer. Audi has been doing it so well for so long, why not consider the A6? The beauty of the BMW IMHO is the 50/50 weight distribution, fabulous suspension, and the rear wheel drive. All of which are comprimised by the AWD feature. My .02. Good luck with whatever you decide.

 

[Beemerworld]

Its not that BMW AWD is bad. It is great. But there are downsides too. What car are you driving now?

Rear wheel drive with winter tires and TCS traction control will pull to the hill with no problems. Just my experience, but If you realy want the AWD than go for it. Maybe you need it.

You should wait for the 5 series Wagon. It looks beautiful.

 

[tonyarous]

I drive a 2002 Passat now (front-wheel drive) and it isn't that bad in the snow, but it doesn't even compare to any AWD vehicles (including the 3-series). I really want to stick to BMW (no wagons or SUVs), but the 3-series is just too small for me. If I don't hear anything about an AWD 5, I might have to start looking at Audi.