The BMW 535i Overview
When it comes to premium mid-size sedans, the competition is intense. The BMW 5 Series has remained a leader in this segment even in its 7th year of its various life cycles. The introduction of the stylish all-new MY11 5 Series is no different. Combining athletic good looks, superb driving dynamics, and innovative comfort and safety features into an executive express that promises once again, the BMW 5 Series is the one to beat.

The Lexus GS Overview

As with the Lexus GS 350, the GS 460 was first introduced in 2005 and is one of the older vehicles in its segment.

The GS 460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V-8 that produces 342 horsepower and 339 lb-ft. of torque. Its standard 8-speed Sequential Shift automatic propels it from 0 – 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds – only 0.3 seconds faster than the 535i's six-cylinder output.

The GS 460's 54 / 46 weight bias adds 306 lbs. of added weight to the front of the car. Therefore, it cannot compare to the dynamism and active safety prowess of the 535i.

As with the GS 350, Brake Drying, Brake Stand-by, and Brake Fade Compensation are noticeably absent, and the brake rotors at all four corners are significantly smaller.

Other safety features missing on the GS 460 include Start-Off Assistant, Automatic Hold, Adaptive Brake Lights, interlocking door anchors and a Battery Safety Terminal. The 535i also includes standard Run-flat tires – a Lexus option.

Lexus offers neither complimentary maintenance, nor a pre-paid maintenance program of any kind. And while BMW recommends maintenance at roughly 15,000 or 12-month intervals, Lexus recommends nearly double the number of service visits (every 5,000 miles or 6-months.)

 

BMW vs. Lexus

 

What BMW offers…

• BMW's Twin scroll turbocharged engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
• In a 0-60 mph time, the 535i clocks in at 5.7 seconds.
• BMW includes larger brakes, ventilated front and rear: 13.7-inch front with 13.6-inch rear (535i), for sure, drama-free stopping. The 5 Series also uses BMW's composite aluminum/cast iron brake rotors, which are much lighter than conventional.
• The 5 Series includes standard Driving Dynamic Control, which provides alternative settings for steering, throttle and transmission shift response.
• Examples of the enriched standard equipment level include Lumbar support and a larger Moonroof. Navigation is standard on the 550i.
• BMW's iDrive includes standard Programmable Memory keys, and the optional navigation adds an 80GB hard disc with 12 GB music memory, 10.2-inch display, Real Time Traffic Info, CD-ripping capability, MyInfo and BMW Search.
• BMW's Night Vision includes Pedestrian Detection as an additional safety measure.
• The Driver Assistance Package includes Lane Departure, Blind Spot Detection, High Beam Assistant and the newest feature, Parking Assist.
• Rearview cameras are optional on cars equipped with Park Distance Control. Top View and Side View Cameras are optional on cars equipped with Rearview Cameras.
• BMW's Head-up Display places a customized, virtual instrument panel directly in the driver's line of sight.
• BMW's 4 year/50,000-mile warranty includes Full Maintenance and Roadside Assistance
• BMW includes a 12 year/unlimited miles corrosion warranty

 

What Lexus doesn’t…

• Lexus 4.6-liter V-8 produces 342 horsepower and 339 lb-ft. of torque.
• In a 0 – 60 mph time, the GS 460 clocks in at 5.4 seconds – only 0.3 seconds faster than the 535i's six-cylinder output.
• Brakes on the GS 460 are 13.1-inch front and 12.2-inch rear, ventilated front and rear.
• The GS 460's 54 / 46 weight bias adds 306 lbs. of added weight to the front half of the car.
• Lexus offers Vehicle Stability Control which clearly can not match that of BMW DSC.
• The 460 offers the optional Mark Levinson sound system with 14 high-output speakers.
• The Lexus GS 460 display screen is only 7.0 inches in contrast to BMW 10.2 (With Navigation)
• The Lexus GS 460 optional navigation includes RTTI plus Search and Send, but has the same display, only a 40GB hard drive with 4GB music storage and no CD-ripping.
• The Lexus GS does not offer Start-off Assistant, Automatic Hold, Adaptive Brake Lights, interlocking door anchors and a Battery Safety Terminal.
• While standard on the BMW 535i, the Lexus GS offers optional Run-flat tires, adaptive headlights and rain-sensing wipers.
• Lexus' warranty includes 4 year/50,000 miles Roadside Assistance, but no maintenance.
• Lexus now offers a feature similar to BMW Assist (named Safety Connect), only one year of service is included vs. the four years that come standard on every new BMW.
• Lexus offers neither complimentary maintenance, nor a pre-paid maintenance program of any kind. And while BMW recommends maintenance at roughly 15,000 mile or 12-month intervals, Lexus recommends nearly double the number of service visits (every 5,000 miles or 6-months.)

Don't settle for the ordinary, drive something extraordinary. Expect the ultimate in performance and service by purchasing a BMW.

Visit Irvine BMW today, where we provide premiere customer service, high quality BMW vehicles and products, along with factory-trained technicians.

We look forward to seeing you soon, Irvine BMW of Orange County.

"... The great 5 Series cars of the past have offered almost as much luxury as the 7 Series but at a more manageable and sportier size.

This latest iteration may have gained some weight, but it has also gained in refinement.

And, despite the added mass, the sporty dynamics that have made the 5 Series the sports car of its segment remain intact." Car and Driver

Irvine BMW proudly serves Orange County - including Aliso Viejo, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, East Irvine, El Toro, Foothill Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, San Clemente, Lake Elsinore, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Juan Capistrano, Silverado and Trabuco Canyon.