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Few weeks ago, I was invited to BMW’s Innovation Drive event in Toronto. During the event, I got a chance to test out various BMW cars like the 335i (which has a new engine), 335d (the super torque monster), 135i, and the all-new 5 series. Read on to find out why the BMW 5 series is better than ever.

The Run Down

The BMW Innovation Drive is a 3-hour event.  The participants first got a brief introduction to the BMW 5-series Gran Tourismo and the X6 active hybrid. This short but informative session highlights some of the latest and greatest technologies from BMW. For example, the X6 active hybrid is equipped with a powerful engine that can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds. What’s better is that maximum torque can be delivered as early as 1,750 RPM. Also, the wheel is designed specifically to minimize drag. All of these combined and the X6 active hybrid achieves an impressive fuel consumption of 9.9L/100km.

Black on Black 135i on display. The suede-wrapped steering wheel feels great!

Now the fun part was the second part of the event – the test drive.  The participants were teamed up in pairs to test out the BMWs on two mini-tracks. The first track was a miniature closed-loop course where drivers can test out the agility of the BMWs. The second track a straight line where drivers get to test out the acceleration capability.

The 7 Series active hybrid on display

The Test Drive

Here comes the fun part: The best thing about the test drive was that every driver was allowed to push the BMWs to the limits. It was extremely thrilling to be able to floor the 135i, 335i, and 335d.  With the 335i, there was so much G force that I felt like I was pushed against the seat like a giant magnet.  Even the disel powered 335d had exceeded my expectation of a disel engine car. With 425 lb-ft of torque, I could feel the “punch” at an all-out acceleration.  The 1 and 3 series are a lot of fun to drive and they give drivers maximum driving pleasures with its outstanding handling characteristics.

The all-new 5 series has great looks inside and out, and it handles very well.

Not only do BMWs accelerate quickly, but they can also stop within a very short distance. And this was demonstrated in the 5 series sedan. To my surprise, the 5 series was able to come to a complete stop in less than a metre from a speed of 45 km/h.  I could not believe how quickly it could stop, so I tried the same thing twice. The tests yielded the same result.

Conclusion

The BMW Innovation Drive event had successfuly accomplished the goal of showcasing the best features of the latest and greated BMW vehicles.  I am most impressed by its precise handling and elegant design. There is really not a lot of cars (in the same “class”) that can match this.

I almost forgot to mention the best part: The BMW Innovation Drive was a free event.