BMW's sports sedans have a justified reputation for impressive handling characteristics, made possible by race-developed suspension systems. The slightly more pedestrian station wagon has not been shorted in that category.
It rides on the same 4-wheel independent suspension used in the 5-Series sedans. In technical terms, the front suspension is of the double-pivot, strut-type, while the rear is BMW's patented Track Link system. More important to know than the nomenclature is the fact that the front and rear systems work together quite nicely.
Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock brakes are standard, as is power-assisted steering that varies effort depending on engine speed: more assist at low speed for easy maneuvering, less assist at highway speeds for better control. Cast alloy wheels and wide 225/60R-15 radials are also standard.
On the safety side, the Touring offers dual airbags, front and rear computer-designed crush zones that dissipate crash energy as they collapse, and side-guard door beams.
Other popular standard features include intermittent wipers (car speed determines wiper speed), heated outside mirrors and heated driver's door lock, central locking, built-in tracks for an optional roof rack and metallic paint. Next Page