BMW continues to focus on luxury, refinement, fuel efficiency and high tech for most of its models somewhat to the detriment of handling agility. Case in point: the current 5 Series is the most luxurious version ever of BMW's midsized sedan. The current 5 is brimming with technology and refinement which makes it remarkably satisfying but it may no longer be among the sportiest choices. Instead, it's plush, quiet, finely crafted inside, frugal with fuel, and user friendly. That makes it score among the top in its class in our road tests.
As is the current norm for this class, BMW uses a four-cylinder turbo engine in its mainstream 5 Series. Our tested 530i is propelled by a 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder engine, good for 248 horsepower. The 3.0-liter turbo six-cylinder in the 540i is punchier and feels effortless. Both engines are mated to a super slick eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional on almost all versions. There's also a 530e plug-in hybrid version for a modest premium.
That turbocharged four-cylinder pays off in both performance and fuel economy. While the 530i's engine doesn't deliver explosive power, there's more than enough oomph on hand for effortlessly merging, passing, and hill climbing. It shoots the 530i to 60 mph in just over seven seconds. An added bonus is that this engine might be the quietest four-cylinder on the market today. The 530i xDrive also achieved a commendable 26 mpg overall in our tests, which makes it the most frugal model in this class.
The eight-speed automatic is a delight, with imperceptible shifts. It seems to be reading your mind, as it is never in the wrong gear for your driving style.
Handling is capable and composed but no one should expect the precise, taut, and agile sedan the 5 Series was once known for. The ride is serene and supple, unfazed by most bumps the road throws at it. The cabin is impressively quiet -- wind, tire, and engine noise are well hushed, effectively isolating occupants from the outside world.
The cabin is beautifully crafted, with soft-touch materials, exquisite stitching, and other expensive-looking trim pieces covering just about every surface. Yet, it's also understated and devoid of glitz. Controls, including the iDrive infotainment system and its large touch screen, are well executed. Our test car has the superb head-up display that's part of the optional Driving Assistance package. This system not only projects your current speed onto the windshield, but it also shows audio and phone tasks when executed through the steering wheel buttons.
The standard 16-way power adjustable front seats are fantastic, and include four-way lumbar and moveable side bolsters. The seat cushions are firm, yet have enough give to be comfortable, and they provide plenty of all-day support even for the longest trips. We opted for the optional Cold Weather package, which included heating for the rear seats and steering wheel.
Overall, the new 5 Series proves to be a mature, calm, and well-thought out luxury sedan. However, and contrary to BMW's famous tagline, it's no longer the segment's ultimate driving machine. Both the Jaguar XF and Mercedes E-Class deliver a sportier driving experience. The 5 Series has grown up, which in large part seems to be what its clientele is asking for.