The BMW 5 Series Touring (F11) 535i, produced from 2010 to 2013, represents BMW’s offering in the premium, mid-size executive wagon segment. Part of the F11 generation of the 5 Series Touring, it combined the practicality of a station wagon with the performance and luxury expected of the BMW brand. This variant specifically featured a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine producing 306 horsepower, and was typically equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission, though a 6-speed manual was also available. The 535i occupied a position in the lineup above the 528i and below the high-performance 550i, targeting buyers who desired a blend of spirited driving and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (F11) |
| Type (Engine) | 535i (306 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 201 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 226.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800 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 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2415 kg (5324.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1670 l (58.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4907 mm (193.19 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 141 mm (5.55 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.95 m (39.21 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 | 225/55 R17 97W |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 535i Touring is the N55B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine is a significant evolution of BMW’s long-standing inline-six tradition, featuring direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) technologies. These technologies work in concert to deliver a broad torque curve and impressive power output. The N55 engine is known for its responsiveness and relatively smooth power delivery. The 8-speed automatic transmission (ZF 8HP series) was the most common pairing, offering quick and seamless shifts. A 6-speed manual transmission was available, catering to drivers who preferred a more engaging driving experience. The automatic transmission featured steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control.
Driving Characteristics
The 535i Touring with the automatic transmission provided a refined and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in around 5.7 seconds, making it a genuinely quick wagon. The automatic transmission’s close gear ratios kept the engine in its optimal power band, providing strong acceleration in most situations. Compared to the 528i, the 535i offered a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in more effortless overtaking and a more engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 550i, the 535i struck a good balance between performance and comfort. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to balanced handling, although it could be challenging in low-traction conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 535i Touring typically came well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Optional extras included features like a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim options. Trim levels were relatively straightforward, with options primarily revolving around individual packages adding convenience, technology, or aesthetic enhancements. The standard interior featured wood trim, but aluminum or other materials were available as options.
Chassis & Braking
The F11 5 Series Touring utilized a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and precise handling. The 535i typically featured larger brakes than the base models, with ventilated discs at all four corners. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), dynamic stability control (DSC), and traction control were standard safety features. The suspension was tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, leaning towards the comfort side for a grand touring experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 535i Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined ride, and spacious interior. Compared to the 528i, the 535i offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying the higher price tag for those seeking more power. Fuel economy was respectable for a vehicle of its size and performance, averaging around 27.4 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors over the long term. The 535i Touring competed with other premium wagons such as the Audi A6 Avant and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon.
Legacy
The BMW 535i Touring (F11) remains a desirable used car today, particularly for those seeking a practical and luxurious wagon with strong performance. The N55 engine is considered a robust and reliable powerplant, although regular maintenance is crucial. The availability of parts and qualified mechanics is good, making ownership relatively straightforward. The F11 5 Series Touring, and the 535i variant in particular, represents a sweet spot in BMW’s lineup, offering a compelling combination of performance, practicality, and luxury.
