2018 BMW 5 Series Review
The 2018 BMW 5-Series Sedan falls between the large exclusive 7-Series and the smaller 3-Series in BMW's lineup. It is a mixture of usability and performance, while also features great space and luxury throughout the cabin.
The 5-series is the newest addition to the BMW's sedan lineup for the year 2018. The sedan is back with some new technology and safety features and an exciting list of drivetrain options to choose from. The 2018 BMW 5-series holds a lot of stakes for the Bavarian automaker due to its midrange position which slots right between the extravagant 7-series and the affordable 3-series.
The traditional BMW 530i carries the same 2-liter engine as the outgoing model. The 540i comes packed with a 3-liter powerful engine and offers a diesel variant too. This year, BMW has introduced a plug-in hybrid 530e trim which has an electric iDrive motor. The new launched M550i tops the chart with a dual-turbocharged V8 engine which brings it a lot closer to the BMW M6.
Pricing and Features9.0/10
The base 530i sDrive variant comes with a 2-liter inline-4 cylinder turbocharged engine to produce a maximum power of 248 hp. The 540i pushes performance with a few additional standard features and a turbocharged 335-hp 3-liter inline-6 cylinder engine. An option of all-wheel drive(AWD) is offered with either variant at around $2,300.
The 530e plug-in hybrid features a 2-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine and an eDrive electric motor to produce a maximum power of 248 hp. The 530e is also offered in an xDrive variant for seamless performance on slippery ground. The 540d diesel 3.0L inline-6, which makes an awesome 457 foot-pounds of torque is only offered with the xDrive AWD.
| Trims | 530i | 530e iPerformance | 540i | 540d xDrive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $52,650 | $52,650 | $58,200 | $62,000 |
| Key Features | SensaTec Leatherette Upholstery | Same as 530i | Adds to or replaces features offered on 530i: | Same as 540i |
| 12-Way Power Driver Seat | Genuine Leather Upholstery | |||
| 12-Way Power Passenger Seat | 16-Way Power Driver Seat | |||
| Remote Keyless Power Door Lock | 16-Way Power Passenger Seat | |||
| 12 Speaker Audio System | Dual Zone Front Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Real-Time Traffic Display | Seat Memory setting | |||
| 2 LCD Monitors | ||||
| Sport Leather Steering Wheel w/Auto Tilt-Away |
Which trim would be the best choice for the 2018 BMW 5-Series sedan?
The BMW 5-Series comes loaded with performance and character, no matter which trims you choose. If you're more likely to be chauffeur-driven, then the 530i suffices. Although true driving pleasure is found in the 540i RWD, which can be easily outfitted with some modern tech and features available in the Convenience Package. The xDrive AWD does take away from the agility of the car and is only recommended in unpredictable weather conditions.
Engine and Performance9.1/10
BMW has a variety of engine and drivetrain options to choose from. The 2018 BMW base variant 530i is powered by the 2-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine which produces a maximum power of 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The transmission duties are carried out by an 8-speed automatic gearbox which is the only option in all variants.
The 540i comes with a uber-smooth and responsive inline-6 turbocharged 3.0L engine, putting out 335 horsepower and 332 foot-pounds of torque. The 540d comes with a similar 3.0L inline-6 turbo-diesel which gives out 261 horsepower and 457 foot-pounds of torque. All engines are at peak refinement and exceptionally smooth in their response. The AWD xDrive option is available on every powertrain.
| Model | BMW 5-series (530i) | Volvo S90 (T5 Momentum) | Jaguar XF (Base) | Audi A6 Premium (2.0 TFSI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $52,650 | $48,100 | $47,775 | $49,700 |
| Engine | 2.0L TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder | 2.0L 16V I4 Turbocharged | 2.0L 16V I4 Turbocharged | 2.0L TFSI 4-cylinder |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Automatic | 7-Speed Automatic |
| Power | 248 hp @ 5200 rpm | 250 hp @ 5500 rpm | 247 hp @ 5500 rpm | 252 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft @ 1450 rpm | 258 ft-lbs. @ 1500 rpm | 269 ft-lbs. @ 1200 rpm | 273 ft-lbs. @ 1600 rpm |
The 2018 BMW 5-Series in the smaller inline 4-motor is comparably powered to most of its competitors. although both the Audi A6 and the Jaguar XF show a better response in terms of torque. The inline-6 motor on the 540i is much better against its competitors, though it comes at a hefty premium, which proves a bit too dear considering the BMW is already at a higher price.
How fast does the 2018 BMW 5-Series accelerate?
BMW have optimized the gearbox and the response from the engine to give it some blistering output from the standstill. The 530i pulls up from 0-60 in just about 6 seconds, while the 540i is about a second faster at 5 seconds for 0-60. The 530i can even complete the quarter-mile in 14 seconds, which is a bit on the faster side from its competitors. The car has a top speed of 155 mph.
| Model | BMW 5-series (530i) | Volvo S90 (T5 Momentum) | Jaguar XF (Base) | Audi A6 Premium (2.0 TFSI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 6.0 sec | 6.9 sec | 6,0 sec | 7.7 sec |
| Quarter Mile | 14.1 sec | 15.3 sec | 14.5 sec | 15.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 130 mph | 152 mph | 144 mph |
|
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
6.6 | 6.5 | 6.3 | 6.3 |
The BMW 530i is on the faster side of most of its competitors, and the xDrive variant is even better in this respect. The Volvo S90 and the Audi A6 are a bit on the slower side, with the Audi taking a sluggish 7.7 seconds to touch 60 mph. The 540i far exceeds most of its competitors, although it comes with an electronically limited top speed of just around 130 mph.
How is the 2018 BMW 5-Series to drive?
Both the 2.0L inline-4 and the 3.0L inline-6 do a great job of taking the large sedan around. The 8-speed automatic gearbox is highly intuitive and does wonders in getting the most out of the engine. The inline-6 motor does a much better job at pushing the sedan, and the throttle response seems a bit quicker and responsive. The xDrive AWD system helps the car be quicker off the mark and also maintain its footing on slippery roads better.
The steering is crisp and precise characteristic of BMW. The car feels well-poised around corners and can turn surprisingly quickly for a sedan of its size. The early kick from the torque on either engine makes the acceleration seem almost seamless. The RWD sedan is a tad bit better at handling as compared to the xDrive which is a bit on the clumsier side when tested.
The sedan offers snappy handling and shows quick movements even on narrow corners. The steering is amazing but not as responsive as the M6. The sport mode works just fine but the comfort mode feels more premium, matching the luxury of a 7-series sedan. Being a BMW it definitely justifies their signature line- ‘Sheer driving pleasure’.
Braking
BMW does a great job of tuning their brakes. The 2018 5-Series sedan is exceptionally well designed and optimized to offer some of the best braking character currently on the market. The response is ideal with just the right amount of bite to help the sedan maneuver quickly, while it can also offer a much gradual acceleration to make it a more comfortable car. BMW outfits the 3-Series with 11.6-inch brake rotors at the front and 11.7-inch ones at the back. These get the car to a standstill in just 106 feet.
| Model | BMW 5-series (530i) | Volvo S90 (T5 Momentum) | Jaguar XF (Base) | Audi A6 Premium (2.0 TFSI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60-0 mph | 106 | 120 | 119 | 117 |
| Curb Weight (lbs.) | 3746 | 3870 | 3604 | 3858 |
| Brake (Front) | 11.6 | 13.6 | 12.8 | 13.6 |
| Brake (Rear) | 11.7 | 12.6 | 12.8 | 13 |
The 2018 BMW 5-Series seems the best equipped in terms of braking and stopping power. It comes to a stop much quicker than almost all of its competitors. The other sedans in the lineup even feature larger brakes. Overall the BMW is a highly reliable and completely safe car to drive.
Fuel Economy7.9/10
BMW cars are known for their high fuel economy figures even with some outstanding performance. The 3 Series has been outfitted similarly with German precision and technology to optimize its efficiency. The car though seems a bit too thirst around city streets with just 24 mpg, while on highways it fares better with 34 mpg. The 18-gallon fuel tank gives the sedan a range of almost 500 miles with efficient driving.
| Model | BMW 5-series (530i) | Volvo S90 (T5 Momentum) | Jaguar XF (Base) | Audi A6 Premium (2.0 TFSI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPG (City) | 24 | 27 | 25 | 25 |
| MPG (Hwy) | 34 | 34 | 34 | 34 |
| MPG (Combined) | 27 | 29 | 28 | 28 |
| Fuel Capacity (gallons) | 18.0 | 14.5 | 19.5 | 19.8 |
| Range (miles) | 432/612/486 | 348/493/391 | 488/663/546 | 495/673/554 |
The Volvo is the most efficient in cities, while the Audi A6 and the Jaguar XF are more or less similar to the BMW 5-Series. The Volvo though comes with the smallest fuel tank and consequently the least range in the competition. The largest fuel tank on the Audi A6 at 19.8 gallons is enough to get the sedan to 550 miles easily.
Interior8.6/10
The interior of the 2018 BMW 5-series is surely exquisite. The available dual tone leather and tasteful use of chrome at minute places like air vents and knobs show the carmaker’s focus on luxury. The interior of this sedan is undoubtedly better than its previous versions but doesn't hit the heights of luxury as the 7-Series does. The heated armrests in front and rear, ambient carpet lighting and futuristically designed customizable dashboard don't just look amazing but is also laid out ergonomically for both the passengers and the driver.
Base models are fitted with synthetic leather called SensaTec, which higher variants come with real leather. The front seats are available with up to 20-way power adjustability, and even include options like seat heating and cooling. There are even in-seat massagers available on all four corner seats, although only optionally. All seating positions have great legroom and headroom and even cubbies and spaces for storage.
| Model | BMW 5-seriesExterior |
|---|
| Model | BMW 5-series (530i) | Volvo S90 (T5 Momentum) | Jaguar XF (Base) | Audi A6 Premium (2.0 TFSI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curb Weight (lbs.) | 3746 | 3870 | 3604 | 3858 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 117.1 | 120.5 | 116.5 | 114.6 |
| Length (in) | 194.6 | 200.1 | 195.0 | 194.2 |
| Width (in) | 73.5 | 74.0 | 78.2 | 73.8 |
| Height (in) | 58.2 | 57.1 | 58.2 | 57.8 |
| Ground Clearance (in) | 6.2 | 6.0 | 4.5 | 6.6 |
| Track Width – Front (in) | 63 | 63.7 | 63.2 | 64.1 |
| Track Width – Rear (in) | 63.9 | 63.7 | 62.8 | 63.7 |
The Volvo S90 is most definitely the longest car and even has the longest wheelbase. The 5-Series is quite long and sleek and will surely be imposing on the road. The exterior is beautifully designed and matches the performance, which is sure to make this car a true head-turner. The jaguar looks a bit sedated, while the Audi looks executive as compared to the BMW.
Exterior Features
There are a lot of distinctive features on the outside of the car. Standard external features include:
- Adaptive LED headlights with automatic high beams
- Automatic windshield wipers
- Remote parking
- Keyless entry
- Restyled front bumper
- 360-degree automatic camera
- Panoramic Sunroof
Safety9.9/10
BMW is known to make well-designed cars with rugged durability as well as adequate crumple zones throughout to mitigate the effects of a crash. All models come standard with front and side airbags to give ti one of the best offerings in basic safety. The IIHS has rated the 2018 BMW 5-Series as the "Top Safety Pick+" which means it has some of the best and most reliable safety features on the market. BMW even loads the car with some additional safety features and technology which are:
- Front and rear Head Protection System (HPS)
- 3-point safety belts with force limiters and head restraints at all seating positions
- Seat-mounted front side-impact airbags
- LATCH attachments for child-restraint safety installation
- Driver's and passenger's front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS)
- Front safety belts with automatic pre-tensioners
- Dusk-Sensing Headlights
- Tire Pressure Monitoring
Competition9.0/10
2018 BMW 5-Series vs Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 comes loaded with a similar-sized engine that produces the same power and torque as that of the BMW's. The Volvo has a better base package than that of BMW's with all the essential features like parking assist, remote locking, and smartphone-integrated infotainment system at a lesser cost than BMW. The Volvo also has better legroom in the rear. However, the price difference seems to make sense when we look at the premium styling, handling, comfort, and fuel economy of the 2018 BMW 5-series.
2018 BMW 5-Series vs Audi A6 L
The Audi A6 L is powered by a 2-liter 4 cylinder engine which produces the best in class power and torque. It also offers a plush and luxurious interior equivalent to the BMW's but 5-series basically one-ups A6 in the driving experience as A6 isn't as responsive as 530i, also the ride quality is quite poor due to larger alloy wheels. But overall the Audi has better range and usability. The Audi A6 has also been the most popular luxury sedan for 2017.
2018 BMW 5-Series vs Jaguar XF
The Jaguar surely is a complete package on its own with a powerful engine, great handling, and spacious trunk but it fails to pose a threat to the more premium, luxurious, and sporty BMW 5-series due to its rough ride quality. The fit and finish of the car seem a bit lacking and the Jaguar also feels a bit less ergonomic. Finally, the infotainment and lighting features in the interior are lacking as compared to some of the better cars in the segment.
Final Verdict8.1/10
The 2018 BMW 5-series offers great efficiency along with effortless handling, impressive driving dynamics, and quick acceleration. BMW has gone to great lengths to ensure that the engine fits well into the car. While the 530i seems to lack a bit of punch, it is still well made and highly responsive. The larger engine in the 540i is probably the best fit for this segment in term s of drivability. So, if you're looking for a good car around 50 grand and won't mind spending some more money on the lucrative add-on packages.