The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo (F07 LCI), specifically the 535i xDrive Steptronic model produced from 2013 to 2017, represents a unique offering within the 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. This 535i variant, equipped with the N55 engine and xDrive all-wheel drive, served as a mid-range performance option, bridging the gap between the base 535i and the higher-performance 550i models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Gran Turismo (F07 LCI, Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 535i (306 Hp) xDrive 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) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 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 | 6.5 kg/Hp, 153.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.5 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 | 1995 kg (4398.22 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2625 kg (5787.13 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) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 xDrive Gran Turismo 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 responsiveness and smooth power delivery, a characteristic enhanced by the turbocharger’s design. The engine’s valvetrain employs Double-VANOS, BMW’s variable valve timing system for both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Paired with the N55 is the ZF 8HP70 eight-speed automatic transmission, marketed by BMW as “Steptronic.” This transmission is renowned for its quick, smooth shifts and wide gear ratios, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 535i xDrive Gran Turismo offers a comfortable and capable driving experience. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.8 seconds, making it a reasonably quick vehicle for its size and class. Compared to the 535i with a manual transmission, the Steptronic automatic offers slightly slower acceleration due to inherent drivetrain losses, but provides greater convenience. The xDrive system provides confident handling in all conditions, minimizing understeer and maximizing grip. While not as sporty as the 550i, the 535i offers a good balance between performance and comfort, making it well-suited for long-distance touring.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 535i xDrive Gran Turismo came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Standard safety features included ABS, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim options. The Gran Turismo’s rear seats offered ample legroom and could be folded down to expand cargo space. The interior design was typical BMW, with a driver-focused layout and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The F07 Gran Turismo utilizes a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, but still offers good body control. The 535i xDrive Gran Turismo is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS, dynamic stability control (DSC), and traction control are standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5 Series Gran Turismo, and specifically the 535i xDrive variant, received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology, it was often criticized for its unconventional styling and higher price compared to the standard 5 Series sedan. Compared to the 535i with rear-wheel drive, the xDrive model offered improved traction and stability, but at the cost of slightly increased weight and fuel consumption. The 550i, with its more powerful V8 engine, offered significantly quicker acceleration but came with a substantial price premium. The 535i xDrive Gran Turismo appealed to buyers seeking a luxurious and versatile grand tourer with all-weather capability.
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, however, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and continues to be well-regarded by enthusiasts. On the used car market, the 535i xDrive Gran Turismo offers a compelling value proposition, providing a luxurious and well-equipped vehicle at a relatively affordable price. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles, the N55 engine is generally considered to be relatively reliable, and parts availability is good. The F07 Gran Turismo remains a unique and somewhat polarizing vehicle, but it offers a distinctive blend of comfort, versatility, and performance.
