BMW 5 Series 535i Gran Turismo Luxury Review: A new dimension

What we like:

Higher levels of build quality and luxury than a 5 Series

versatility of a hatch

raised seating position

spacious and comfy at the rear

What we dislike:

Awkward rear end styling

costs significantly more than a 5 Series saloon

not so spacious boot area

Thanks to its generous exterior proportions, the GT's cabin feels airy and is Spacious with a capital S. It offers more headroom than the typical saloon model while its 3070mm wheelbase is the same as a standard wheelbase 7 Series model, which translates to significantly more lounging room in the rear than a 5 Series with a wheelbase of 2968mm. just like in a 7 Series, the rear centre seat can be folded down to reveal a sizable armrest for rear passengers seated on the sizable and comfy rear armchairs.

Considering how generously proportioned the GT is on the outside, the boot can be better sized - even the more compact X3 offers more load area than the 5 GT can muster. Thankfully though, the rear seatbacks tumble forward to extend the load area should the need arises.

Up front, the GT shares its dashboard and driving environment with the 7 Series bar he slightly raised driving position. The driver will appreciate the commanding view up front thanks to this slightly raced driving position while the seats not only look good but are comfortably plush and supportive as well.

The 535i GT feels as luxurious and as well built as the range topping 7 Series models. The 535i GT is adequately equipped to say the least in order to match its premium pricing. It comes standard with Dynamic Driving Control, Park Distance Control for front and rear, adaptive Xenon headlamps, cruise control, four-zone climate control, electrically operated tailgate, soft close function for the doors, comfort access, panorama glass roof, sat nav, 19-inch wheels and so on.

In terms of pricing, the 535i GT is somewhere in between the 535i and the 740i which makes the GT s sort of a plug in the gap between the 5 and 7 Series saloon models. The 5 Series GT is quite possibly the model conceived for those who want more lounging space in the rear than a 5 Series but do not have the budget to stretch for a full-fledged limo model like the 7 Series.

Credits: Story by Mark Yeo Photos by Raymond Lai