BMW 5 Series: Delightfully Lighter
BMW 5 Series has been on the market since 1972 and the seventh generation of the Bavarian premium sedan was introduced in 2016. As expected, the new car is coming with numerous improvements compared to the previous generation. The new 5 Series is a lot lighter than its predecessor and it’s the highlight from all the comparisons. Other novelties and improvements are visible in every segment – design, engines and mechanics, equipment, body variants…
AT A GLANCE
Upsides
- Sporty and executive styling
- Great engines
- Driving experience
Downsides
- 530i lacks some equipment
Design – 4/5
The exterior dimensions of the new 5 Series are slightly larger. The car is 4,935 mm long, 36 mm longer than the predecessor. From the side, it has a similar dynamic figure as the previous model. The noticeable BMW kidney grille, flanked by twin circular headlights, makes the forepart of the new BMW 5 Series looks more striking. At the rear, the LED lights reach deep into the sides of the car, creating a visual connection between its flanks and rear end. Other defining elements of the rear end include exhaust tailpipes, which are now arranged symmetrically on both sides on all model variants. Depending on the engine and equipment package specified, the tailpipes can be circular, trapezoidal, rectangular or in a quartet.
Engine, drivetrain, and performance – 5/5
The new 5 Series comes to Singapore with two petrol engines available. The BMW 530i has the 2.0L four-cylinder inline engine which, helped by a turbocharger, delivers a peak output of 252 hp and maximum torque of 350 Nm. The BMW 530i sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h. The range-topping engine is the 3.0L straight-six in the BMW 540i which generates 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque. The power is increased for 34 hp compared to the predecessor. It results in a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Both engines are coming with 8-speed Steptronic gearbox and as rear-wheel-drive variants.
Trim levels – 5/5
In Singapore, the BMW 5 Series is available with Luxury (530i) and M Sport (both engines) equipment packages. The M Sport package includes the M aerodynamic package (front apron with larger air intakes, side skirt trim, a diffusor-style rear apron and an exhaust system with two rectangular tailpipes), lowered M Sport suspension and M light-alloy 18-inch wheels. Inside the car, M sports seats with Alcantara covers highlight its sporting focus and are joined by the new M Sport leather steering wheel, exclusive floor mats, interior trim strips and aluminum pedals.
Safety – 5/5
Using an intelligent multi-material mix consisting of aluminum, high-tensile steels, and magnesium, up to 100 kilograms has been shaved off the weight of the previous model, but the body strength and torsional stiffness have been increased. It’s the first step towards maximum safety. Other steps are multistage airbags which would be deployed in the most effective way and plenty of electronic helpers that provide five-star safety for all occupants.
Conclusion: 4.75/5.0
The BMW 5 Series is one of the most successful business sedans in the world and, based on everything the new model is offering, it will probably continue on that path of success. The new 5 Series is delightful in every aspect of customer satisfaction, starting with a combination of sporty and executive design, over potent engines to the luxurious equipment. All that puts this car in the first class of business vehicles, but also among the practical cars for day-to-day use for the families who want everyday premium driving.