535d SE 5dr Auto Estate

Fast, comfortable, spacious, well built and surprisingly economical.

I had been looking for a 5 Series Touring to replace my 325d SE Touring (56 plate), as more space was needed to carry nautical gear. As a fan of the BMW 6 cylinder diesel engines, I expected to buy a 530d, and did an extensive web search looking for the right car. I was also more interested in the SE spec, as I didn't want a hard ride and very large wheels with low profile tyres. The 535d I have purchased came from a BMW dealer, at an excellent price, around 100 miles from home, with just under 12,000 miles on the clock. As an SE it appears to be very unusual, although it has many extras, eg Sports Seats, Head Up Display and many more. It has turned out to be an excellent purchase so far, with road tax being less than the previous car, fuel economy about the same, and fully comprehensive insurance, about to be renewed at £279. The car is on 18 inch wheels which provide a good ride when combined with the SE suspension. I find the engine phenomenal, and with the 8 speed sport automatic gearbox give this car performance far more than I feel the need to explore. A bonus with this car was a full 5 year service package!
This is a large car, and I use it mainly for long journeys, where both its comfort and effortless performance make for a relaxing drive. As yet there have been no faults to report, and only one dealer service, which was free, carried out by my local dealer Rybrook, Warwick, who I know very well. Current mileage is 17,500 miles.

I have to declare a fondness for BMWs, and we also own and use, on a regular basis, a 325d SE Convertible (2009), and a Z4 2.5 SI Sport (2007). In addition there are 2 BMW motorcycles in regular use through the summer months. Our concession to non BMW motoring takes the form of a 1962 Austin A40 Farina, which I have owned since 1964. It is fully roadworthy, and still used occassionally!

The above I hope is of use. Whilst admittedly a bit biased towards BMW, I have driven many makes over the years, some of which were company cars. We value our relationship with our servicing dealer, although it is interesting that none of our BMWs came from them, as I rate the Service Department, but seemingly cannot achieve success with their Sales Department. In any case the internet gives the opportunity to look for the right car. We live in Warwickshire, and the 5 Series came from Surrey, the 3 Series from Bedford, and the Z4 from Derby!

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