The all-wheel-drive BMW 5 Series Wagon, which BMW calls the 530xi Sports Wagon, has received some optional high-tech gadgetry like high-definition radio, a night vision system and a revamped version of BMW Assist, similar to GM's OnStar. The sedan on which the wagon is based is still the benchmark among sporty midsize luxury models. The station wagon's driving characteristics are virtually identical to the AWD version of the sedan. Rear-drive is not available on the station wagon, and unlike the sedan, there is only one engine choice, a six-cylinder. The last major redesign for the 5 Series was for the 2004 model year. A face-lift, including some new exterior styling, is due for the 2008 model year. Meanwhile, the car remains saddled with BMW's confounding iDrive system that combines various dashboard controls into a single knob-operated array.
The all-American Ford Mustang Convertible still rides like the wind, and it comes in V6 and V8 models.
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