New cars: BMW 535i GT

Motor Trend

Is it a car, a crossover, a big hatchback, or a “neo–station wagon?” Just 3 inches shorter in length than the 7 Series and 3 inches taller, the 5GT is powered by a 300-hp twin-turbo in-line six. A movable partition separates cabin and storage area, and rear entry is via either a hatchback door or a smaller lid that swings out from below the rear window.

Automobile

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If it’s not a sedan, an SUV, or a wagon, let’s call it a five-seat hatchback. The all-new, eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and panoramic sunroof are standard. Options include electronically operated rear captain’s chairs and black ceramic trim for the shift knob. So BMW has filled another niche, “but will anyone care?” This car weighs a hefty 4,586 pounds and has one “ungainly” rear end.

Car and Driver

On the plus side, it’s a BMW thoroughbred under the skin. Those looking for more power should opt for the 400-hp, 4.4-liter twin turbo V8, though it pushes the weight to almost 5,000 pounds. Don’t be surprised if all that bulk, the massive A-pillars, and a restricted rear view trick you “into thinking the GT is an SUV.”