BMW 5 Series | Review

It’s hard to believe that the 5 Series could be improved, but BMW has managed it quite significantly. The latest generation is bigger, more comfortable and more efficient, making it an ideal company car choice.

Overview

The introduction of the latest BMW 5 Series was slightly overshadowed by the launch of the i5 – the first electric 5 Series.

BMW opted to lead with the electric version, bringing petrol and plug-in hybrid models in afterwards.

There’s been some major changes. For starters, BMW has ditched diesel for this generation so the old company car favourite 520d is no longer available.

The range kicks off with the 520i, priced from £51,015. But it’s the two plug-in hybrid models that make the most sense for fleet customers.

Most will be happy with the 530e – available from £59,455 - there’s also a range-topping 550e with a brutish six-cylinder powertrain.

In every sense the 5 Series has evolved. Not least from the introduction of a fully electric version, but also in terms of technology, size, comfort and capability.

Comfort and practicality

The gap between executive and luxury cars has been narrowing for a long time and with this latest 5 Series that is certainly the case.

It has grown to more than five metres in length, making it larger than immediate rivals.

The interior is clad in high-grade materials, it’s exceptionally spacious and the seats are incredibly comfortable.

Neat touches include the dashboard trim panels with integrated ambient lighting and the hidden air vents which direct air into the cabin from small slots beneath the infotainment screen.

With the 5 Series developed in tandem with the i5, there’s plenty of space underneath for batteries. This means the plug-in hybrid versions have the same 520-litre boot capacity as the 520i.

If the 5 Series saloon doesn’t cut it, then there’s also a Touring estate model. This has a 570-litre boot and plenty of dog-carrying capability.

The standard trim level is M Sport, which comes with a generous equipment level that includes heated front seats with lumbar support and climate control. There’s a choice of Alcantara or imitation ‘Veganza’ leather upholstery, or real leather as an option.

Safety and technology

Further enhancing the interior of the 5 Series is BMW’s latest infotainment system. Presented via two large screens, joined to create a frameless panoramic display, the setup is among the best in the business.

The operating system takes a little bit of getting used to, but once you’ve got it configured to suit your needs it’s a joy to use.

There’s a rotary controller in the centre console, too, which makes operation more straightforward on the move. The central screen can also be controlled by touch, for quicker access.

Climate controls are integrated into the screen and are easily accessed as they remain permanently displayed along the bottom. There are additional touch sensitive buttons for the window defrost and air vents integrated into the trim strip below the screen.

Our test car was equipped with BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional, which comes as part of a £3,300 Technology Pro package. It includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and even an automated lane change function. It’s a very impressive suite of features which can take care of most driving functions on motorways.

Driveability and efficiency

As we’ve already mentioned, the 5 Series is edging ever closer to 7 Series territory when it comes to comfort and refinement, yet that hasn’t dampened its driveability.

Sure, it’s softer, smooth and quieter than ever before, but the fundamental handling and performance dynamics are still very impressive.

Even with a large 19.4kWh (useable) battery on board, the 530e feels relatively nimble. The upshot of that large battery is a realistic zero-emission range of 50 miles and you can expect average consumption of more than 60mpg with regular charging.

With 299PS, the 530e provides ample performance. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 6.8 seconds and the mid-range performance is strong, thanks to the boost from the electric motor.

The 550e is in a different league. Its 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine is more sonorous, more torquey and when combined with the same electric assistance as the 530e it is really rather rapid. Despite the extra performance, and all-wheel-drive, the 550e is still efficient. Our testing netted 45mpg and the electric range is only a few miles less than it is in the 530e.

Company car tax and running costs

The 530e sits comfortably in the 8% benefit-in-kind tax band although its higher list price, of almost £60,000, means it will predominantly be chosen by drivers in the 40% tax band. They’ll see monthly bills of around £160.

The 550e is about £16,000 more expensive, but still sits in the 8% band.

Running costs are reasonable, at 57p per mile for the 530e. Comparatively, a Mercedes E 300 e would cost 68p per mile.

The 520i attracts a 31% BiK charge, making it considerably more expensive for drivers.