BMW 5 Series Review, Specs & Performance

BMW 5 Series in a nutshell

BMW has been producing the 5 Series for over 50 years, and they have continually improved on it. The 8th generation was awarded 'What Car Best Luxury Car" in 2022, meaning it's not just a great driving saloon. Having been known for their efficiency and performance, an all-new electric I5 EV ups the ante for the environmentally conscious and those looking to reduce their running costs.

BMW 5 Series - Engines & Economy

Engines

Upon launch, the new BMW 5 Series Saloon and Touring will come with one 2.0 litre petrol engine and two complete Electric offerings for the first time in the BMW i5. The 520i will now come with 208ps as standard and will see off 62mph in only 7.5 seconds. The I5 40e can do the same dash in only 6.0 seconds and offer a range of up to 357 miles. And the new M60 will come packing 600ps and can see sixty-two in only 3.8 seconds, providing thrills and environmentally sound credentials. If you would like more petrol options, you'll need to wait until 2024 for the 530e and 550e. These plug-in hybrids are expected to offer between fifty and sixty miles of electric range.

Petrol

• Petrol 2.0 litre 153kw (208ps/bhp) RWD 8-speed automatic

CO2 - 140-130 g/km

Consumption - 50.4mpg - WLTP Combined

Electric

• Electric 250kw (340bhp) RWD Single automatic 

Range Upto 312-357 Miles CO2 Zero

• Electric 442kw (601 bhp) AWD Single automatic

Range Upto 284-315 Miles CO2 Zero

BMW 5 Series - Interior & Equipment

Interior

The tech is the first thing to hit you as you enter the interior. The curved displays (design potentially borrowed from the I models) exude a hi-tech feel. The G60 5 Series is now leather-free as standard too, with the launch of their new Alcantara-wrapped seats called Veganza - Excellent-za) and steering wheel. Sporty heated seats are standard, while multi-contour seats come with the i5 M60 and can be added to other models.

There is plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The boot is also generous as you'd expect for a car of this size, with 530 litres of space that can be expanded by folding the rear seats.

Infotainment

The Linux powered 12.3-inch curved display is on par with the latest BMW's and the 14.9-inch control display is one of the best we have seen. The result means a sleek-looking cabin with fewer buttons to faff with, and as with most recent 5 series models, everything is intuitive to use.

The AirConsole app enhances the operating system's capabilities by offering diverse video streaming options and in-car gaming features. With this free app, users can easily transform their smartphones into controllers for an extensive range of available apps - though drivers can only participate when the car is stationary (for example, BMW says when waiting at a bridge…or charging). The BMW Interaction Bar is an add-on for base models and standards on the i5. It has touch-sensitive controls for air conditioning and hazard lights and an illuminated control panel across the dashboard and front doors.

We should also highlight a panoramic glass roof option for the new 5, which adds to the drama and style of this exquisite new cabin design. All in all, it's a lovely place to spend time.

Safety and driver assistance systems

As expected, the 5 Series is equipped with many safety and driver assistance systems, such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, rear-view camera, collision warning and emergency braking. These features help to enhance the driving experience and reduce the risk of accidents. There's also a five-star rating from Euro NCAP, which means it is one of the safest cars on the road.

Downsides for the 5 Series

You'd be correct in thinking that such an acclaimed and developed car would have minimal downsides. We could say the styling could be a little more distinctive, and BMW have not exactly been shy with their designs lately; just look at the IX, XM or I7 models. But some part of the design team needs to keep the loyal 5 Series owners happy. This is a progressive change, not an all-new product. Some potential drivers might find the styling too conservative, especially compared to more stylish or sporty rivals.

Rivals to consider

It's no secret that the 5 Series faces stiff competition from other executive cars. Rivals to consider are the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the Audi A6, the Volvo S90 and the Jaguar XF. These cars have their strengths and weaknesses, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the closest rival to the 5 Series, as it also offers a spacious and luxurious interior, a range of efficient engines and a smooth ride. The Audi A6 has always been a competitor, it has a sleek and modern design but a firmer ride that some drivers might find off-putting considering the state of some of Britain's roads today. The Volvo S90 is a stylish and elegant alternative with a distinctive Scandinavian design, while the Jaguar XF is a sporty and dynamic option for drivers who want more excitement from their executive saloon, but the 5 series is more up-to-date now. As for EV alternatives, consider the Genesis G80 electric saloon or the new and futuristic Polestar 3. Or very capable but sportier and smaller would be the likes of a Porsche Taycan or Audi E-Tron GT. 

Summary

You already know that's unlikely we'll say anyting other than that the BMW 5 Series is an excellent choice. For those who want to lease a premium executive saloon that offers comfort, performance and efficiency it's got to be near the top of any list. It's spacious interior is top notch and the refined drivetrains are on point. There's a lot going for it in a very competitive market, and BMW has easily done enough to keep ahead of the pack.