It was a rumor at first, then a definite maybe from BMW. The 5 Series auto would be killed, at least in the U.S. It never sold in big numbers anyway they said, and with the introduction of the 5 Series GT the auto seemed even less likely to appeal to U.S. buyers.

Well now it's official, sort of. According to our correspondent on hand at the international press launch, BMW officials said there would be no 535xi sport auto sold in the U.S. Can't blame them either as BMW only sold 878 5 Series wagons in 2009.

Interestingly enough, those same officials said that the possibility of a 535d sedan for the U.S. hasn't been written off yet, this despite weak income of the 335d. Part of the optimism comes from the fact that the X5 diesel has started to acquire some traction. Apparently the intent of diesel power seems palatable in a family vehicle more so than a sport sedan.

Only problem is price of course. The 335d already starts at $44K, so a 535d would mostly likely near up against the 550i in terms of pricing. Could be interesting to see which vehicle buyers in that class prefer.

First Drive: 2011 BMW 535i