Did you know there was still a 530i for sale in Malaysian showrooms?
Taking some of its design cues from its big brother, the 7 Series, this 2021 model 5 Series which was launched in May 2021 has styling updates that will not be obvious from across a parking lot, but they are noticeable in details at closer range. The most noticeable change is the jewel-like Laser light up front and the ‘must have’ 19-inch BMW ‘M’ wheels.
In general, this face-lifted 5 Series maintains BMW’s contemporary yet notably sport infused design, highlighted by strong character lines as it will very soon be retired in favor of pure electric powered version that will carry noticeable different styling to ‘shout’ its supposed ‘clean’ drivetrain.
The average sized driver can see over the hood and the top of the fenders where they meet the hood, but the forward edges of the car are not so visible unless you are taller than us (5 feet 6 inches). The swept-back headlight housings minimize protruding corners and ease maneuverability, though it takes some familiarity before the driver is certain exactly where the corners of the car are.
As before, this 5 Series cabin is spacious, light and airy, with a thoughtful layout and plenty of elbow room. Everything you touch feels right for the premium asking price. Everything you need seems to be where you want it, and everyone on board will be comfortable. The leather is high quality and perfectly tailored, and the driver’s seat in our test car has multiple power adjustments to ensure long distance comfort.
There is good support for the long haul, and the seats are easy to slide in and out of during around-town errands. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel provides a good range of adjustment and compliments the driver’s seat movement, so people of every size can find a good driving position.
Rear-seat passengers will have no complaints even with three adults in. Six-footers can sit comfortably with decent cup holders. Boot space is large and drivers can bring a friend for a golf game, not two.
Looking at the spec sheet for this retiring petrol powered Bimmer, one would not expect that it would be as powerful as its ‘plug-in hybrid’ (PHEV) sibling, but its not as this is where BMW wanted to have a higher selling point for their PHEV’s. Well, PHEV’s have assisted power from a battery powered motor and it is not fair to include them in the equation, but its sold side by side.
The 2.0 litre turbocharged (TwinPower Turbo) four cylinder under the hood may be the same as the BMW 320i, but it has some added zest with 184 PS @ 5,000 – 6,000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at a low 1,350-4,000 rpm.
The 0-100km/h run can be done in 6.4 seconds and it has a top speed of 250km/h where and if possible.
On the road, you step on the throttle, the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission will instantly kick down, and the scenery around you will move much much faster than you would expect. What more, being a Bimmer, it is still whisper quiet at those higher speeds. To the point where one can legitimately not realize that they may have strayed way over the speed limit.
So, is the 530i good enough for its RM395,800k price tag (which is about RM20,000 more than a all new E-Class)? This is a question that can only be answered by you after a test drive on a weekend morning.
Wait? Right after test driving this 530i you should visit its immediate competitor’s showroom and test drive the Volvo S60 PHEV which retails for RM295,888 and the Mercedes E-Class AMG Line at RM375,432 and then over a cup of coffee reflect on all three test drives and then make your decision.
Do not let anyone, including us convince you to buy a luxury sports sedan which you need to live with for the next 4-6 years probably. You need to make that decision yourself.
For the corporate buyer or small businessman, the BMW 5 Series continues to be the default choice as it is easy to drive and live with, well-engineered and well-mannered. Moving five people comfortably or enjoying the long way home, any 5 Series is up to the task.
BMW 530i M Sport Specification
Engine: Twin Power Turbo
Capacity: 1998cc
Transmission: 8-speed Semi-Automatic
Max power: 252bhp @ 5,200-6,500rpm
Max torque: 350Nm @ 1,450-4,800rpm
Top Speed: 250km/h
0-100km/h: 6.4 seconds
Price: RM395,800.00
