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2004 BMW 545i SMG Road Test

Seeing Beyond the Horizon

"Anyone can see the horizon. We wanted to see what lies beyond it." I lifted these words from BMWs glossy magazine-style brochure promoting their 2004 5-Series. After a few short minutes of seat time in this weeks test vehicle, an SMG (sequential manual gearbox) equipped 545i, I concluded that BMW is not only seeing what lies beyond the horizon, theyre creating it; the complexity of which had me feeling techno-challenged in a techno-driven world.

Fortunately for me, using the 545is iDrive system is not critical to movement; hence I made it out of the automakers headquarters parking lot without the need to call BMW Roadside Assistance for help - but it was close.

For 2004 BMW didnt just add a chapter to the 5-Series book, they completely rewrote it, and albeit a book cant be judged by its

After a few short minutes of seat time in the 545i, I concluded that BMW is not only seeing what lies beyond the horizon, theyre creating it. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

cover the 5-Series cover is at best controversial thanks to the Bangle-effect. I had heard the unorthodox flaming surface design language described as the Bungle-effect in reference to the dramatic styling foisted, by Chief BMW design guru Chris Bangle, upon the previously clean lines of the 5 and 7-Series sedans. Now I dont personally ascribe to the "Bungle" analogy in describing the results of his work, but I do find his cars outwardly challenging to admire.

While some may not agree, I dont find Bangles cars outwardly challenging to admire. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

The 5s feline auto-leveling headlights and heavily sculpted bodylines have grown on me, but what I find far less palpable is the high trunk line and large swooshy, wrap-around taillights. Try as I may, I cant find an ounce of ugly-duckling love for the 5s rear treatment.

Maybe I dont adjust well to change or maybe age has impaired my sense of design, or possibly both, but nevertheless what has yet to deteriorate is my ability to inspect a vehicles exterior build quality. I was highly impressed

The 5s feline-shaped auto-leveling headlights and heavily sculpted bodylines have grown on me. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

with the accurate ultra-slim gapping surrounding the doors, trunk lid and engine hood of my tester. These panels were perfectly aligned and with the flick of a finger sealed shut drum-tight.

The fluid-like Bangle-bodied 04 5-Series is taller, wider and longer than last years version, which I admit was beginning to show its age in the same way that many of my clothes are. The bigger Bimmer is approximately 2 inches longer, 2 inches wider and 1.5 inches taller than the previous generation. Quite commendably though, the big guy has shed some 22 pounds in the expansion

The 2004 5-Series is taller, wider and longer than last years version. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

process, thanks in part to the generous use of lightweight, high-strength aluminum in much of the frame and chassis structure fore and aft of the passenger cabin. The use of this material has also contributed to a handling enhancing 50/50 distribution of the 545is respectable 3,803 pound curb weight. The vehicles rear axle assembly is also comprised of weight-saving aluminum, which aids in reducing the vehicles unsprung mass.

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