The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo (F07 LCI), specifically the 535i Steptronic model produced from 2013 to 2017, represents a unique offering within the broader 5 Series lineup. Positioned as a luxury grand tourer, the F07 aimed to blend the comfort of a sedan with the versatility of an SUV, featuring a distinctive fastback design and a spacious interior. The “LCI” designation refers to a Life Cycle Impulse, or facelift, which brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the original F07 model introduced in 2009. The 535i Steptronic, equipped with the N55 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, served as a mid-range performance option, bridging the gap between the base 535i and the more potent, though less commonly available, high-performance variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Gran Turismo (F07 LCI, Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 535i (306 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg, 34.4 UK mpg, 12.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 157.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 206.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1200-5000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1200-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N55B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.3 l (9.83 US qt | 8.18 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2570 kg (5665.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 5004 mm (197.01 in.) |
| Width | 1901 mm (74.84 in.) |
| Height | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3070 mm (120.87 in.) |
| Front track | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/50 R18 100Y |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 535i Steptronic is BMW’s N55B30A inline-six engine. This 3.0-liter engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger, producing 306 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The N55 is known for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness, a characteristic enhanced by the turbocharger’s design. The engine features Double-VANOS variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Paired with the N55 is the ZF 8HP80 eight-speed automatic transmission, marketed by BMW as “Steptronic.” This transmission is renowned for its quick, smooth shifts and wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The transmission offers a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to select gears independently, though it primarily operates in automatic mode.
Driving Characteristics
The 535i Steptronic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The combination of the smooth N55 engine and the eight-speed automatic results in effortless cruising and responsive acceleration. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals or even higher-trim 5 Series models, the 535i provides ample power for everyday driving and highway passing. The Steptronic transmission is well-programmed, offering seamless gear changes and contributing to a relaxed driving experience. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on some 535i models, the Steptronic prioritizes comfort and ease of use over outright driver engagement. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 5.8 seconds, making it a reasonably quick grand tourer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 535i Steptronic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-range luxury model. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a central display screen. Optional extras included features like a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The Gran Turismo’s unique feature was its split-folding rear hatch, offering a large and versatile cargo area. Interior color options were varied, allowing for a degree of personalization.
Chassis & Braking
The F07 Gran Turismo features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but still offers a secure and planted feel. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard safety features. The 535i typically featured slightly larger brake rotors compared to the base models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5 Series Gran Turismo, and specifically the 535i Steptronic, received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and the performance of the N55 engine. However, the car’s unconventional styling and somewhat awkward proportions were often criticized. Compared to the more traditional 5 Series sedan, the Gran Turismo offered more interior space and cargo capacity, but at the expense of some handling agility. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 28.7 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability has generally been good, with the N55 engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo (F07) was discontinued in 2017, replaced by the more conventionally styled 5 Series Touring (wagon). The N55 engine continues to be highly regarded for its performance and reliability, and examples of the 535i Steptronic are still sought after on the used car market. While not a mainstream success, the F07 Gran Turismo represents an interesting and ambitious attempt by BMW to create a unique vehicle that blended the best aspects of a sedan, SUV, and wagon. Well-maintained examples of the 535i Steptronic offer a comfortable, refined, and capable grand touring experience at a relatively affordable price point.
