Nail the throttle and there's a growl akin to BMW's race engines. There's also instant throttle response: the 530i takes off like a rocket.

The 530i we drove offers an excellent balance with high-performance throttle response and handling without the expense of the 540i, which gets stuck with a Gas Guzzler Tax. On the other hand, the 540i offers an incredible 324 pounds-feet of torque for brilliant acceleration performance. The 525 represents an excellent value with the 2.5-liter engine.

From 0-60 mph, the 530i is about a half-second quicker than a 525i; you can feel that. Our 530iA was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds; it could perform this with the manual transmission in 6.8 seconds. By comparison, a 525i accelerates from 0-60 in 7.3 seconds with the manual, 8.0 seconds with the automatic. At the same time, the 530i returns an EPA-estimated 21/30 mpg city/highway, though that drops to just 18/26 mpg with an automatic transmission. All these BMW engines require premium unleaded fuel.

Both the 2.5-liter and 3-liter engines were updated for 2001: A fully electronic throttle system replaced the electromechanical type. As a result, throttle response is even more precise than before. Also, a new intake manifold and increased valve lift improve performance.

We've tested the 540i in the past and found the 32-valve V8 to be quiet and unobtrusive, making itself heard only when pushed hard. When pushed hard, it's powerful, covering 0-60 mph in less than six seconds with the manual, slightly more than six seconds with the automatic.

The 5 Series BMWs offer superb handling, regardless of suspension package and powerplant. They are true sports sedans, tracking precisely through corners with minimal body roll.

For the ultimate in razor-sharp road behavior, the Sport suspension package is the choice. Stiffer springs and shock absorbers result in a slightly harsher ride quality, but enthusiasts may find this tradeoff in comfort is more than made up for by driving pleasure. Our 530i was equipped with this package and it reacted crisply to steering inputs. Rippled pavement in downtown Washington was quite noticeable through the seat of the pants. For most people, the standard suspension (which is hardly standard) is probably the better choice.

Our 530i's Steptronic automatic transmission was excellent. It responds quickly to a tip of the throttle, dropping down a gear or two as needed. Equipped with adaptive electronics that tailor shift programs to driving style, BMW's manual transmissions work with precision and smoothness.

BMW designed the 5 Series cars to help the driver avoid having an accident. Every model is standard-equipped with Dynamic Stability Control, which acts to help stabilize the vehicle in critical cornering or avoidance situations. Augmenting the four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, DSC includes antilock braking plus Dynamic Brake Control, which helps ensure maximum braking under emergency conditions.

BMW's brakes are absolutely superb: They feel solid, like there's a direct connection between driver and brakes. They slow the car right now, but at the same time are easy to modulate, not grabby like some of the power brakes on old American cars.