BMW 5 Series

Expert Review by Maxabout

Exterior

At first glance, it seems that BMW have played it safe with the new 5 Series. Built on BMW’s so-called ‘backbone strategy’, the Fives are now larger than ever before – at 4907 mm, it’s the longest vehicle in its class. Unlike the previous model, it uses a more conventional monocoque form, rather than a hybrid, and its body is a blend of aluminium (bonnet, doors and front wings) and steel. It’s a classy, bold design, with a dynamic front form and sculpted flanks.

Interior

Inside, the interior design shows serious restraint. The gear-lever is joystick-like, but beyond that there is little that could offend the design-conscious, and much to enjoy. In the rear, the larger wheelbases provide greater legroom and shoulder space than previous models – space enough for two large adults comfortably (and three at a push). The materials are high quality and sophisticated, with stylish trims.

Comfort and Convenience

BMW prioritize comfort, and the 5 Series has a superb driving experience. The seating offers plenty of space and leg room, and can be adjusted to suit all driver types, with the major controls positioned well. The only flaw is the slight offset of the pedals, which some drivers may find inconvenient. It’s a pleasant car to use, due to nice touches such as a hydraulic-powered cover beneath the boot floor, an independently opening rear windscreen, and a rear seat split as 40/20/40 in the standard models.

Dashboard and Storage

Some drivers may find the dashboard a little confusing, particularly in comparison with the clarity of a vehicle such as Mercedes E-Class, but once you’ve become accustomed to it, the Five’s dash is easy to use, with a slicker, sleeker look and classy feel. The Five’s luggage space is 520 litres, which is slightly less than the class average; compare to the 540 litres in the E-Class.

Music System

The equipment in the Series 5 is high quality. Its USB interface allows you to connect a range of MP3 layers to the sound system, including iPods and mobile phones. Music plays in top-notch HiFi through the crystal-clear loudspeakers, and can be controlled via the steering wheel, iDrive system, radio buttons or voice control.

Engine and Gearbox

BMW 5 Series is available with 3 diesel engine options. The 520d is powered by a 1995cc, 4 Cylinder engine, which develops max power of 184 Bhp at 4000 rpm and max torque of 380 Nm at 1750 rpm. The 525d is powered by a 1995cc, 4 Cylinder engine, which develops max power of 218 Bhp at 4400 rpm and max torque of 450 Nm at 1500 rpm. The 530d M Sport is powered by a 2993cc V6 engine, which develops max power of 258 Bhp at 4000 rpm and max torque of 560 Nm at 1500 rpm. The company claimed mileage of 520d, 525d and 530d are 18.48 kmpl, 17.09 kmpl and 14.69 kmpl respectively.

Mileage

Thanks to the car’s Efficient Dynamics system, it provides class-leading economy of fuel. The company claimed mileage of 520d, 525d and 530d are 18.48 kmpl, 17.09 kmpl and 14.69 kmpl respectively.

Safety Features

All of the 5 Series come with a minimum of 6 airbags fitted as standard, plus a wide range of electronic driver aids such as safety kit priming and stability control. Its spring-loaded front bonnet offers additional cushioning to pedestrians in the event of a collision. There are locking wheelnuts, deadlocks and full alarm systems fitted to deter thieves.

Suspension and Brakes

In general, the 5 Series is an excellent drive, but the standard suspension outfitting is disappointing. The 18-inch wheels on the standard suspension (which is non-adjustable and passive) mean that imperfections in the driving surface are felt far more than they would be in a car like the Mercedes E-Class, with its 17-inch wheels. The adaptive dampers are an additional extra, but should be fitted as standard – they make a world of difference to the ride. Braking is generally strong, and improved greatly by the dampers.

Ride and Handling

As noted, with the standard suspension the Series 5 handles less well than it should. If you add the optional Variable Damper Control onto the 4-cylinder models, and the Adaptive Drive addition to the 6-cylinder vehicles, the car is transformed into a sharp-handling, smooth ride. Overall, the Series 5 does an excellent job of suppressing all noise to give a refined drive. The electrically aided power steering performs adequately, but lacks the flex and smoothness of a car like the XF.

Shades

BMW 5-Series is available in 13 shades: Jet black, Carbon black metallic, Alpine white, Dark graphite, Black sapphire, Imperial blue, Deep sea blue, Mojave metallic, Cashmere silver, Space grey, Tasman green, Titanium silver and Milano beige.

Variants

BMW 5 Series is available in 4 variants: 520d Luxury Line, 520d Modern Line, 525d Luxury Plus and 530d M Sport.

Warranty

The 5 series comes with 2 years warranty, with unlimited parts and services included.

Accessories

Additional extras include roof-mounted rhino racks, custom mesh grilles, trims, port holes, side vents, cargo liners, floor mats, air filters, flush mounts and spoilers, headlight kits, LED light bars, exhaust tips, car covers, seat protectors, and more.

Reasons to Buy and Value for Money

An accomplished vehicle, the 5 Series is well rounded and delivers in all areas: performance, handling, interior and exterior design, comfort, storage, economy and refinement. The entire 5 series comes at a very competitive price, and its excellent range of specs fitted as standard means that you won’t have to splash out on too many extras. However, it’s unfortunate that the additional dampers are an expensive necessity.

Verdict

If you choose the right options, the BMW 5 series is a perfect combination of refinement, comfort and powerful performance, although these options certainly come at a cost.