While some of its rivals have worked hard to catch up to BMW’s 5-series in performance and handling, BMW seems to have switched gears and taken a more luxury-oriented approach with its mid-size sedan. What was once a driver’s delight is now more of a boulevard cruiser—one with a posh interior, plenty of people and cargo space, and a range of efficient and strong-performing engines. When the M550i performance model was introduced for 2018, we were hopeful that the Ultimate Driving Machine was returning to the BMW showroom, but it too suffers from a mixed bag of dynamic traits.There are three new 5-series models for 2018, and they stand at very different points in the performance and fuel-economy spectrums. The plug-in hybrid 530e iPerformance offers up to 16 miles of electric-only range, the diesel-powered 540d xDrive boasts an EPA highway fuel-economy rating of 36 mpg, and the mighty M550i xDrive drops some muscle into the lineup via a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine. Base 530i models and the new 530e can now be equipped with the Dynamic Handling package, which includes adaptive suspension and upgraded brakes; this package also bundles active steering rather than having it as a stand-alone option. Last year’s Luxury Seating package for 530i and 540i models now includes Nappa leather upholstery, and full Merino leather is now available, as is a gray-colored faux-suede headliner and a leather dashboard.Active Cornering Enhancement
Adaptive Headlights
20 Inch Alloy Wheels
Heated Front Seats
Lumbar Support Both Front Seats
Leather Steering Wheel Special
Metallic Paint
Nappa Leather
Power Boot LID
Performance Brakes
Sport Seats
Sunroof
Sound System with 16 Speakers
Sports Tail Pipes
Sports Suspension
Ventilated Front Seats |
