Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2001

Luxury Sport Sedan

Winner: BMW 540i

True sport sedans use a front-engine/rear-drive layout for superior balance and can be equipped with a manual transmission for the enthusiast who wants to be involved with the task of driving. BMW makes sure the 540i meets both requirements, while swaddling occupants in luxury. With its stout 282-horsepower V8 engine and optional sport suspension package, the 540i hugs curves as well as your body thanks to deft handling and well-bolstered seats. Acceleration from rest to 60 mph takes a scant 5.8 seconds. Beware, however, that the standard Getrag six-speed manual transmission can be somewhat of a bear puttering around town, thanks to a stiff clutch and rapid gear engagement. Driving the 540i smoothly takes skill. Those who travel primarily in urban city centers might want to try the identically-priced iA model equipped with Steptronic automanual transmission, which offers the option of do-it-yourself gear management for a swap of three-tenths of a second in the zero-to-60 run. Inside there is ample room for four, with a full load of creature comforts and safety features to keep passengers secure and comfortable while you plaster their faces to the glass on a favorite canyon road. Any way you look at it, the 540i can satisfy the definition of a luxury sport sedan.