Ordering advice for an 540i

LookBothWays · 10-27-2021, 01:48 PM

I've only been able to test drive an M550 and a used high mileage 540ix. Coming from an SUV they both felt precise and easy to drive though the 550 was exhilarating. Not sure what to order but I'm leaning toward something with fewer options. My current idea is a 540i without x drive, with M Sport option and 19" all season tires. Any idea how this might ride and handle? Primary use will be extended highway trips where comfort is the priority but hoping it will also be fun through curvy mountain passes. Winter months it will be garaged and I'll drive the SUV.

TacticalGunnarM550 · 10-27-2021, 03:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LookBothWays

I've only been able to test drive an M550 and a used high mileage 540ix. Coming from an SUV they both felt precise and easy to drive though the 550 was exhilarating. Not sure what to order but I'm leaning toward something with fewer options. My current idea is a 540i without x drive, with M Sport option and 19" all season tires. Any idea how this might ride and handle? Primary use will be extended highway trips where comfort is the priority but hoping it will also be fun through curvy mountain passes. Winter months it will be garaged and I'll drive the SUV.

I'd go m550. You won't regret it.

LookBothWays · 10-27-2021, 04:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TacticalGunnarM550

I'd go m550. You won't regret it.

It is more than tempting but I am struggling to be practical. In today's market it is a pretty penny without incentives and spiraling gas prices.

jsf721 · 10-30-2021, 05:48 AM

I have an M sport 540 IX. With the 19” rims. It rides like a comfortable sports sedan. I love it.

My wife has a 530 ix luxury and she loves it. It’s more sedate and the suspension is more comfortable / compliant.

My gas mileage is 23 MPG average over 30k and I drive the thing with a big fat smile on may face every day. I’d say 50/50 sport -comfort mode.

SteveinArizona · 10-30-2021, 08:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TacticalGunnarM550

I'd go m550. You won't regret it.

I disagree. The OP doesn't indicate that she intends to track the car. If the usage of the vehicle is as described by the OP, IMHO the 540 will be more fun as she won't be able to use the power of the V8 as it will almost always be in the lower RPM range.

I recently did the BMW autocross where they used 2021 M440is and they were a hoot to drive.

AP · 10-30-2021, 08:44 AM

The only thing I would say about xdrive or not is the traction.

The xdrive is more sure footed and I feel you can drive more confidently in "press on" driving

You say car is for more comfort so this may not be relevant in that case. Just awareness really .

LookBothWays · 10-30-2021, 10:01 AM

Wondering if anyone has directly compared similarly optioned models with and without x drive. Most concerned with steering feel between the two. Everyone including dealership suggests the x drive is superior and commands better trade-in but I've always resisted ordering for trade-in value and the car won't be used for slippery driving not counting a spirited drive now and then. I would think with traction control RWD would take some effort to get loose in a curve.

Like SteveinArizona said the M550i has more power than is practical. It would only tempt me to press the peddle in short bursts and I think before long my driving record would suffer but wow 0-60 was a rush.

TacticalGunnarM550 · 10-30-2021, 10:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveinArizona

Quote:

Originally Posted by TacticalGunnarM550

I'd go m550. You won't regret it.

I disagree. The OP doesn't indicate that she intends to track the car. If the usage of the vehicle is as described by the OP, IMHO the 540 will be more fun as she won't be able to use the power of the V8 as it will almost always be in the lower RPM range.

I recently did the BMW autocross where they used 2021 M440is and they were a hoot to drive.

I never intend on tracking my car either, the m550 is just a blast on the highways when i can open it up a little. There are SOLID deals on CPO M550s out there.

23109VC · 10-30-2021, 10:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TacticalGunnarM550

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveinArizona

Quote:

Originally Posted by TacticalGunnarM550

I'd go m550. You won't regret it.

I disagree. The OP doesn't indicate that she intends to track the car. If the usage of the vehicle is as described by the OP, IMHO the 540 will be more fun as she won't be able to use the power of the V8 as it will almost always be in the lower RPM range.

I recently did the BMW autocross where they used 2021 M440is and they were a hoot to drive.

I never intend on tracking my car either, the m550 is just a blast on the highways when i can open it up a little. There are SOLID deals on CPO M550s out there.

I have an M550i. My mom has a 540i M Sport. Both are 2018 models. Both have 20" wheels.

The M550 is much faster but the 540 is no slouch. The 550 has a lot more get up and go from low speed. Compared to the M550, the 540 almost feels like it has turbo lag, but once it gets moving it's quick.

I took both cars around the corners and they both handle great but there's something about the 540 it almost feels like it has better turn in. I know they rate the M550 I as having overall better handling but I think the difference is minimal. 540 is lighter and I think would make it feel a little more toss a ball if you were going around twisty roads but they both are similar.

I don't think they handle in between the two is the big difference the real difference is the horsepower. If you got a 540 and put 20 inch wheels and an M sport onto it it would look cool.

I had fun driving my moms car but when I got back in my car I like it better.

The V8 sounds bad ass

LookBothWays · 10-30-2021, 11:19 AM

What should one look for when buying a used 550? Is certified a must? And what is a good deal right now?

LogicalApex · 10-31-2021, 08:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LookBothWays

What should one look for when buying a used 550? Is certified a must? And what is a good deal right now?

CPO isn’t a must unless the CPO warranty has value for you.

I would consider what extended warranty options you would need depending on ownership length and mileage you plan to add. I would stick to BMW extended warranties, but some have had success with others. Long forum discussions worth looking for.

I think the more performance oriented the car and the more you drive it in such a manner you’ll hit the wall of repairs…

But the only real value a CPO adds is the CPO extended warranty.

cclcal · 10-31-2021, 03:13 PM

bought used 2028 m550, very happy with it. have only opened up on the highway a few times but it's super fast and super smooth.
I think I would have been fine with a 540 but this 550 had all the options we wanted.
the 540 has more than enough power and speed.

enjoy your search!

Cabbage · 10-31-2021, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cclcal

bought used 2028 m550, very happy with it. have only opened up on the highway a few times but it's super fast and super smooth.
I think I would have been fine with a 540 but this 550 had all the options we wanted.
the 540 has more than enough power and speed.

enjoy your search!

A used 2028?! You must be from the future!

Cabbage · 10-31-2021, 03:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveinArizona

Quote:

Originally Posted by TacticalGunnarM550

I'd go m550. You won't regret it.

I disagree. The OP doesn't indicate that she intends to track the car. If the usage of the vehicle is as described by the OP, IMHO the 540 will be more fun as she won't be able to use the power of the V8 as it will almost always be in the lower RPM range.

I recently did the BMW autocross where they used 2021 M440is and they were a hoot to drive.

The majority of people buying a M550i won't track their car. Usually people that are willing to spend more money on a V8 to enjoy on an open road. I'm all for tracking cars, and I understand what you mean, but I would agree, you wont regret the M550i.

cclcal · 10-31-2021, 05:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cabbage

A used 2028?! You must be from the future!

haha - yes, best car i will ever own

obviously 2018

Cabbage · 10-31-2021, 05:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cclcal

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cabbage

A used 2028?! You must be from the future!

haha - yes, best car i will ever own

obviously 2018

Yeah I know

MauiSteve · 10-31-2021, 06:39 PM

The 540i is a great sedan.

When trying to keep costs down I'd say the must have options are M Sport, Premium Package, Parking Package, and M Sport brakes.

If anything left in the budget it is nice to have Nappa leather, Shadowline trim, and the Sensatec dash.

With the Parking Package (cameras in front and side mirrors in addition to rear) presently being off the configurator perhaps due to parts shortage I would not buy new. Instead shop a good CPO that has the parking pack cameras.

LookBothWays · 10-31-2021, 07:56 PM

I've spec'ed the 540i so many times I know it by heart practically. It's bare boned without the parking package I don't have it on the SUV but just know where the edges are. It would be nice to have we must sacrifice during these difficult times.

I skipped some features but splurged on a few cosmetics. I could go for M Sport brakes if I could find a spec other than color.

2022 540i Sedan

M Sport
Dark Graphite
19" Jet Black wheels / AS tires
Black Sensatec
Ash Grain Trim
Premium Package
Shadowline
Space Saver Spare
Sensatec Dash

$66, 915

I hate paying retail.

MauiSteve · 10-31-2021, 10:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LookBothWays

I've spec'ed the 540i so many times I know it by heart practically. It's bare boned without the parking package I don't have it on the SUV but just know where the edges are. It would be nice to have we must sacrifice during these difficult times.

I skipped some features but splurged on a few cosmetics. I could go for M Sport brakes if I could find a spec other than color.

2022 540i Sedan

M Sport
Dark Graphite
19" Jet Black wheels / AS tires
Black Sensatec
Ash Grain Trim
Premium Package
Shadowline
Space Saver Spare
Sensatec Dash

$66, 915

I hate paying retail.

It's a decent minimal spec... Aluminum trim is nice in a sport sedan. Tough to part with the birdseye camera views. The M Sport brakes are worth half the cost in looks alone. Good luck.

RNemesisN63 · 11-02-2021, 11:22 PM

Like others have said, the 540i is by no means a slouch. I know you said mainly highway miles the 540i is a great DD (to me). Has enough hp for some spirited driving yet super comfy on some of the longer drives. Have taken it on more than a few vacations (8 hours + behind the wheel) and can't complain on how comfortable it is. True with current economy is the M550 necessary? Maybe not but like with anything else, it comes down to OPs needs/tastes. Good luck!

Joe-BMW33 · 11-03-2021, 09:19 AM

On whether a CPO is necessary on a preowned M550 (or any other BMW for the matter), my elevator speech is never drive a BMW out of BMW warranty, but there are some decent aftermarket options. That said, I only buy CPO from the dealer. You get a lot more peace of mind knowing the car was actually eligible for certification (no accidents, good mechanical history, etc.) and also the investment they make to certify it (brakes, tires, etc.). You will pay a little more than at CarMax, but you will have a CPO warranty. Will you ever use the value of the CPO on a repair? Hopefully not, but as I said, the CPO decision process is worth the peace of mind. Any 2018+ M550 for sale on a CarMax type lot most likely has a checkered CarFax and or high miles and was most likely wholesaled from a dealer because it could not be certified. Of course there are exceptions, especially now with people cashing out of their cars. Anyway, you get the point, stick to a dealer and a certified M550 if that is the direction you go.

I am biased. I will always tell people to get in an M550 if you can swing it. It's just a beast and so fun. Everyone should experience it. The 540 is no slouch as mentioned, but it does suffer turbo lag. Slow off the line, I am sure it's a fine cruiser.

LookBothWays · 11-03-2021, 10:35 AM

I've gotten a lot of good information and not just from this thread. I'm changeable as the weather but at the moment I'm leaning toward ordering a 540 in time for a spring delivery. A 550 may be in my future depending on the market in a few years but for now I'm looking forward to a 540.

I see some incentives are available for November but from what I gather they aren't usually offered in the springtime, hope I'm wrong.

The two options I am a bit concerned with are the Sensatec seats and non M Sport brakes but I'm sure they will be fine.

10-27-2021, 01:48 PM	#1
LookBothWays Private 156 Rep 55 Posts Drives: Tahoe Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Indiana iTrader: (0)	Ordering advice for an 540i I've only been able to test drive an M550 and a used high mileage 540ix. Coming from an SUV they both felt precise and easy to drive though the 550 was exhilarating. Not sure what to order but I'm leaning toward something with fewer options. My current idea is a 540i without x drive, with M Sport option and 19" all season tires. Any idea how this might ride and handle? Primary use will be extended highway trips where comfort is the priority but hoping it will also be fun through curvy mountain passes. Winter months it will be garaged and I'll drive the SUV.
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10-30-2021, 05:48 AM	#4
jsf721 Captain 1111 Rep 869 Posts Drives: 2019 540i X M Sport Join Date: May 2019 Location: Long Island, NY iTrader: (0)	I have an M sport 540 IX. With the 19” rims. It rides like a comfortable sports sedan. I love it. My wife has a 530 ix luxury and she loves it. It’s more sedate and the suspension is more comfortable / compliant. My gas mileage is 23 MPG average over 30k and I drive the thing with a big fat smile on may face every day. I’d say 50/50 sport -comfort mode.
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10-30-2021, 08:44 AM	#6
AP Major General 2782 Rep 5,094 Posts Drives: G30 M550 Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: UK iTrader: (0)	The only thing I would say about xdrive or not is the traction. The xdrive is more sure footed and I feel you can drive more confidently in "press on" driving You say car is for more comfort so this may not be relevant in that case. Just awareness really .
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10-30-2021, 10:01 AM	#7
LookBothWays Private 156 Rep 55 Posts Drives: Tahoe Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Indiana iTrader: (0)	Wondering if anyone has directly compared similarly optioned models with and without x drive. Most concerned with steering feel between the two. Everyone including dealership suggests the x drive is superior and commands better trade-in but I've always resisted ordering for trade-in value and the car won't be used for slippery driving not counting a spirited drive now and then. I would think with traction control RWD would take some effort to get loose in a curve. Like SteveinArizona said the M550i has more power than is practical. It would only tempt me to press the peddle in short bursts and I think before long my driving record would suffer but wow 0-60 was a rush.
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10-30-2021, 11:19 AM	#10
LookBothWays Private 156 Rep 55 Posts Drives: Tahoe Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Indiana iTrader: (0)	What should one look for when buying a used 550? Is certified a must? And what is a good deal right now?
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10-31-2021, 03:13 PM	#12
cclcal Private First Class 46 Rep 122 Posts Drives: BMW M550i, H Palisade, Tesla 3 Join Date: Oct 2021 Location: San Diego iTrader: (0)	bought used 2028 m550, very happy with it. have only opened up on the highway a few times but it's super fast and super smooth. I think I would have been fine with a 540 but this 550 had all the options we wanted. the 540 has more than enough power and speed. enjoy your search!
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10-31-2021, 06:39 PM	#17
MauiSteve First Lieutenant 281 Rep 387 Posts Drives: 2020 M Sport 540i Join Date: Feb 2019 Location: Maui, Hawaii iTrader: (0)	The 540i is a great sedan. When trying to keep costs down I'd say the must have options are M Sport, Premium Package, Parking Package, and M Sport brakes. If anything left in the budget it is nice to have Nappa leather, Shadowline trim, and the Sensatec dash. With the Parking Package (cameras in front and side mirrors in addition to rear) presently being off the configurator perhaps due to parts shortage I would not buy new. Instead shop a good CPO that has the parking pack cameras. __________________ 2020 540i MSport \| Alpine White \| Mocha Nappa \| Aluminum Rhombicle \| Exec Pkg \| Luxury Seating \| Bowers & Wilkins \| Parking Assistance Pkg \| MSport Brakes \| Ceramic Controls \| Space Saver Spare \|
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10-31-2021, 07:56 PM	#18
LookBothWays Private 156 Rep 55 Posts Drives: Tahoe Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Indiana iTrader: (0)	I've spec'ed the 540i so many times I know it by heart practically. It's bare boned without the parking package I don't have it on the SUV but just know where the edges are. It would be nice to have we must sacrifice during these difficult times. I skipped some features but splurged on a few cosmetics. I could go for M Sport brakes if I could find a spec other than color. 2022 540i Sedan M Sport Dark Graphite 19" Jet Black wheels / AS tires Black Sensatec Ash Grain Trim Premium Package Shadowline Space Saver Spare Sensatec Dash $66, 915 I hate paying retail.
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11-02-2021, 11:22 PM	#20
RNemesisN63 Lieutenant 546 Rep 456 Posts Drives: 2022 Dravit M850 Join Date: Mar 2019 Location: Cali iTrader: (0) Garage List 2019 540i [0.00] 2013 535i [0.00]	Like others have said, the 540i is by no means a slouch. I know you said mainly highway miles the 540i is a great DD (to me). Has enough hp for some spirited driving yet super comfy on some of the longer drives. Have taken it on more than a few vacations (8 hours + behind the wheel) and can't complain on how comfortable it is. True with current economy is the M550 necessary? Maybe not but like with anything else, it comes down to OPs needs/tastes. Good luck! __________________ '22 M850 Dravit/Tartufo \| '22 X3 M40i CBM/Tacora \| Previous '19 540i Bluestone Metallic/Cognac \| '13 F10 535i Alpine White \|
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11-03-2021, 09:19 AM	#21
Joe-BMW33 Major General 7338 Rep 6,749 Posts Drives: '18 M550i\|'21 X5\|'03 540i Join Date: Apr 2021 Location: Boston iTrader: (1) Garage List 2013 VW Tiguan [0.00] 2015 Infiniti QX60 [0.00] 2021 BMW X5 [0.00] 2003 BMW 540i [0.00] 2018 BMW M550 [10.00]	On whether a CPO is necessary on a preowned M550 (or any other BMW for the matter), my elevator speech is never drive a BMW out of BMW warranty, but there are some decent aftermarket options. That said, I only buy CPO from the dealer. You get a lot more peace of mind knowing the car was actually eligible for certification (no accidents, good mechanical history, etc.) and also the investment they make to certify it (brakes, tires, etc.). You will pay a little more than at CarMax, but you will have a CPO warranty. Will you ever use the value of the CPO on a repair? Hopefully not, but as I said, the CPO decision process is worth the peace of mind. Any 2018+ M550 for sale on a CarMax type lot most likely has a checkered CarFax and or high miles and was most likely wholesaled from a dealer because it could not be certified. Of course there are exceptions, especially now with people cashing out of their cars. Anyway, you get the point, stick to a dealer and a certified M550 if that is the direction you go. I am biased. I will always tell people to get in an M550 if you can swing it. It's just a beast and so fun. Everyone should experience it. The 540 is no slouch as mentioned, but it does suffer turbo lag. Slow off the line, I am sure it's a fine cruiser. __________________ 2018 M550ix\|Carbon Black\|Dinan Modifications\|2003 540i\|Jet Black\|M-Sport\|2021 X5 Mineral White Prior BMW's: 1987 325e\|1993 740i\|1998 740il\|2001 530i\|2002 745li\|2007 750li\|2006 750li\|2001 530i\|2012 535xi\|
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11-03-2021, 10:35 AM	#22
LookBothWays Private 156 Rep 55 Posts Drives: Tahoe Join Date: Aug 2021 Location: Indiana iTrader: (0)	I've gotten a lot of good information and not just from this thread. I'm changeable as the weather but at the moment I'm leaning toward ordering a 540 in time for a spring delivery. A 550 may be in my future depending on the market in a few years but for now I'm looking forward to a 540. I see some incentives are available for November but from what I gather they aren't usually offered in the springtime, hope I'm wrong. The two options I am a bit concerned with are the Sensatec seats and non M Sport brakes but I'm sure they will be fine.
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