The automotive legend of Germany in 2017 presented the world with the new seventh-generation BMW 5-Series. The Bavarian sedan managed to surprise everyone, offering a version that exceeded expectations. A modern and new standard of perfection that has preserved the traditions cherished by the corporation. The distinctive features of BMW remain recognizable, which is crucial for its devoted fans.
Changes in the Exterior
For BMW enthusiasts, one of the paramount and essential details has always been the appearance of the car. BMW strives to preserve the beloved features of its cars to the maximum. Curves, the recognizable gaze, details – all of these are important, as BMW is a status car where economy is not considered.
Dimensions of the BMW 5-Series:
- Length of the car 4,935 mm;
- Width of the Bavarian 1,868 mm;
- Height excellent for tall passengers — 1,466 mm;
- Wheelbase size — 2,975 mm.
Regardless of the configuration, the body dimensions remain unchanged.
Externally, the 5th model resembles the «seven,» also because their evolution took place simultaneously. The radiator grille has slightly increased and acquired contours in chrome finish. The headlights have been enlarged, the optic pattern changed, becoming smoother yet strict, devoid of any romanticism. Even the daytime running lights have been altered in appearance.
LED headlights are installed as standard. The function that prevents blinding of oncoming drivers, called Selective Beam, can be installed in the extended configuration for an additional cost. These headlights provide good illumination up to 500 meters.
The front bumper has changed in shape and now features three large and distinct air intake sections, giving the car a more aggressive look. The identical side cutouts add significant originality to the design. Additionally, horizontally positioned integrated strips of fog lights have been added.
The BMW 5-Series looks very striking, dynamic, and stylish from the side. The silhouette is sporty and sleek, formed from a short front overhang, long entire front section, and maximum rearward shift of the roof; the elegant wheel arches are widely set apart, emphasizing the robustness of the car's lines.
Less work has been done on the rear of the sedan compared to the front, making it less expressive. However, this cannot be considered a flaw. Designers took care in detailing the rear bumper, incorporating exhaust pipe tips that are placed at the edges and vary in shape in different versions.
The taillights have the familiar L-shaped form, sparking some controversy. Some argue that the taillights should have been «tweaked,» but BMW enthusiasts pay no attention to this.
The fifth model has significantly refreshed, and denying this would be inappropriate. The BMW 5-Series offers 21 body color options and 17 original wheel designs ranging from 17 to 20 inches. There are additional design lines — Sport, Luxury, M Sport.
Interior of the BMW 5-Series
The interior of the BMW 5-Series has noticeably and decently evolved. The first thing that catches the eye is the updated dashboard, which differs significantly from previous models in the series. The dashboard trim consists of natural wood, good quality plastic. The fit and finish leave no room for complaints.
The new fifth-generation BMW comes with digital instruments, indicating the modernity of the cabin equipment. The operation of the digital system is well-executed, ensuring it won't let the owner down when needed. It features a touchscreen display that serves informational and entertainment purposes.
The touchscreen is sensitive but not overly so, eliminating the need for users to repeatedly tap on the screen in frustration or accidentally trigger settings by touching the display. It is optimal and intuitive.
Features of the 7-Series are also reflected in the 5-Series. The BMW 5-Series steering wheel offers expanded functionality. Not all competitors have such a range of options on the steering wheel. Despite the expansion, the steering wheel does not feel cluttered or overloaded.
The luxurious interior materials harmoniously enhance the rich and sophisticated style of the cabin. The new 5-Series focuses on comfort, elongation, and expansion. The space for legs and entire body of passengers has increased. As special attention was paid to comfort, the seats have become softer.
Sound insulation has been improved. Thanks to these enhancements, the driver and passengers are shielded from external noises, without experiencing a sense of complete silence that may cause discomfort.
The sound level is at the right balance. The improvement in soundproofing is achieved by incorporating sound-absorbing inserts in the headliner and additional insulation in the ceiling above the rear passengers.
Rear passengers have their climate control sensors, armrest. The seats are multi-contoured.
The steering wheel features uniform heating, with the option for front seat heating in any configuration. The cabin is leather-clad, with the quality of leather in BMW style, known for its high durability.
The trunk volume has been increased to 530 liters, although it is not a record in its class. Nevertheless, the 5-Series is not designed to transport a refrigerator. However, the rear bench can be folded in a 2:1 ratio.
Read more: Restyling BMW M6 F12
BMW 5-Series Engine Lineup, Power, and Fuel Consumption
The BMW 5-Series sedan features front double-wishbone suspension and a five-link system at the rear, providing the suspension with a significant advantage. While standard shock absorbers are installed, adaptive ones can be fitted depending on the model's configuration.
An uncommon feature of rear-wheel steering, which enhances rather than hinders driving safety, has been incorporated. Disc brakes are used on all four wheels.
Both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive are available. The power steering system is intelligently equipped, automatically adjusting based on the engine speed and vehicle speed.
All versions are equipped with an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The exception is the BMW 520d model — the diesel variant comes with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The BMW 5-Series is offered with various power units, including the Active Hybrid 5 hybrid model, which can be charged from a socket. Due to the battery, the trunk capacity is reduced to 375 liters.
In this way, BMW presents 6 engine options, three each for diesel and gasoline. However, the Germans continue to surprise by introducing a hybrid model in the 5-Series.
Safety
The BMW 5-Series is equipped with sensitive front and side airbags, ABS, ESP, precise parking sensors, ISOFIX system, well-distributed safety belts with a good response control feature. BMW safety belts stand out not only for their strength but also for their softness. Alongside Audi, BMW boasts ideal belts that do not suffocate or press on the body parts, remaining comfortable even on long journeys.
The material of the belts is soft, durable, and easy to maintain, as it does not absorb dirt to the extent that dirt becomes visible in fine grooves. This is done to prevent any «stains» from giving an unkempt look to the elegant and fresh interior.
Furthermore, the dirt-repellent material protects car users from unnecessary microbes. The correct shape of the driver and passenger seats plays a significant role in safety, ensuring the body remains securely in place due to numerous electronic adjustments and excellent lateral support, minimizing the risk of minor injuries during abrupt maneuvers.
BMW managed to surprise the public with the seventh generation of the fifth series, making a genuine and qualitative breakthrough in next-generation sedans. In this vehicle, the manufacturer clearly indicates that the future lies in technologies that provide comfort and safety.
