Advanced Safety and Connectivity Significantly Enhanced

The BMW 5 Series has been redesigned. The seventh-generation model launched in Europe in February 2017. Ahead of this, an international test drive event was held in Portugal in December 2016. While the styling retains the elegant and sporty atmosphere of its predecessor, the key feature is the significant enhancement of advanced safety technologies and connectivity through the integration of electronic devices.

A sporty business sedan. This is how BMW defines the concept of the new seventh-generation 5 Series. The length has increased by 36mm to 4,935mm. The width has increased by 6mm to 1,868mm. The height has increased by 2mm to 1,466mm. The wheelbase has been extended by 7mm to 2,975mm.

"Leadership in technology, a luxurious atmosphere, and digital technology are the keys to success." BMW stated this in a press release. The first two points are familiar to BMW enthusiasts, as the driving pleasure and high-quality craftsmanship have always garnered fans for the 5 Series. The third point, the enhancement of digital technology, is now essential for success in the modern era.

The location chosen for the test drive spanned the area across the Tagus River estuary, starting from Lisbon Airport. A short drive inland from the coast led to golf resorts, giving a feel reminiscent of Pebble Beach in the US. Despite being mid-winter, the climate was warm and bathed in sunlight. It's understandable why Germans particularly favor this region for winter holidays. Moreover, it's ideal for driving. With mountain roads and highways, it was a well-chosen setting to test the 5 Series.

Infotainment System Surpasses the 7 Series

At the golf resort that served as the stage for the new 5 Series test drive, a lineup of key 5 Series models, starting from the first generation, was displayed. As someone who has been captivated by the first-generation 5 Series since the 1970s for its enduringly elegant yet sporty appeal, the 5 Series has always been a special model to me. Although the elegance was lost during the period when Chris Bangle served as Design Director in the 1990s and 2000s, its charm returned with the sixth generation.

As mentioned earlier, the new 5 Series has gradually increased in size. In fact, the 5 Series is one of BMW's best-selling models, particularly favored by corporate executives. This means the rear seats are also an important consideration for this model.

"There is no other car that offers sporty agility, presence, and comfort all in one package. With the introduction of this new generation model, we have once again set the benchmark in all areas. This means we have achieved the optimal fusion of driving dynamics and comfort, while pushing driver assistance and networking to the ultimate level. Therefore, the new BMW 5 Series is set to secure its position as the most successful business sedan."

These are the words of Klaus Fröhlich, Member of the Board of Management for Development at BMW, used to convey the company's enthusiasm for the new 5 Series. At the test drive event I attended, the emphasis on this being a car for "businessmen" was also strongly highlighted. A prime example of this is the array of connectivity technologies.

A representative example is the infotainment system. The 10.25-inch high-resolution screen (optional) displays navigation, phone, entertainment, and vehicle functions. These can be controlled not only via the iDrive controller but also through gesture input, which garnered significant attention in the preceding7 Seriesmodel. For instance, to answer an incoming call, you can point your index finger at the screen to initiate the call, or swipe your hand away to reject it.

The new 5 Series inherits this system and further expands its functionality. Additionally, voice input allows commands to be entered "in everyday conversational language" (according to BMW's press materials). Various functions can also be operated by directly touching the buttons displayed on the screen. The Head-Up Display projects various information onto the windshield when needed. Furthermore, the projection area is approximately 70% larger than in the previous model, measuring 800x400 pixels.

For those who frequently drive in congested urban traffic, BMW recommends using Surround View and Remote 3D View. These systems provide a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, allowing for early detection of obstacles or other road users suddenly appearing.

Connectivity with smartphones is also highlighted as an important aspect for a business sedan. A prime example is the adoption of "BMW Connected," a service set to launch in Germany.

This is introduced as a digital assistant. It reads calendar entries to extract address information and automatically transfers it to the vehicle. Based on real-time traffic information, it then notifies the user of the optimal departure time via smartphone.

There is no longer a need to manually enter destination addresses into the car's navigation system. By pre-entering data such as the destination address and desired arrival time via "BMW Connected" from outside the vehicle, this data is transferred upon entering the car and connecting your iPhone, automatically activating the navigation system.

A Driving Enjoyment Unbecoming of a 5-Meter Long Sedan
— 540i sDrive M Sport

The lineup available in Germany is extensive. Gasoline models include the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder "530i," the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder "540i," and the 4.4-liter V8 "M550i." Both rear-wheel drive and full-time all-wheel drive "xDrive" are offered (the M550i is xDrive only).

Diesel options include the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder "520d" and the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder "530d." Both are available with rear-wheel drive and full-time all-wheel drive "xDrive." Additionally, a plug-in hybrid system combining a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, the "530e iPerformance" (rear-wheel drive only), will also be introduced.

Two new 5 Series models were available at the international test drive event. The gasoline engine model was the "540i sDrive M Sport" with a straight-six engine. It boasts an increase of 25kW (34ps) in power and 50Nm in torque compared to the previous model.

As those familiar with BMW know, the "M Sport" is a model that enhances the sporty character through its suspension tuning, wheels, brakes, and interior and exterior design.

Key features include the kidney grille, which emphasizes a wider appearance than before, and the glossy black finish on the wheels and the air breather outlets on the sides of the body.

It is equipped with the M Aerodynamics package, consisting of a front apron with large air intakes, side skirts, a rear apron with a diffuser design, and an exhaust system with dual rectangular tailpipes. Other features include M Sport suspension for a lower ride height and optional 19-inch M alloy wheels. The interior boasts Alcantara M Sport seats, a newly designed leather-wrapped M Sport steering wheel, dedicated floor mats, interior trim, and aluminum pedals.

Once settled into the cockpit, which will feel familiar to anyone who has driven a BMW, the exquisite finish of the details immediately catches the eye. The dashboard's upper surface is covered in a material with a leather-like texture, exuding a strong sense of luxury akin to the 7 Series. The extensive customization options for seat shape, upholstery, and dashboard materials are characteristic of a premium sedan.

With maximum torque of 450Nm available from 1,380rpm, the initial acceleration is brisk. This quickly transitions into a feeling of immense power. The six-cylinder engine delivers substantial thrust, accompanied by a smooth, linear powerband. The 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.1 seconds for the rear-wheel-drive model confirms that the exhilarating driving experience expected from a BMW is fully delivered.

As mentioned earlier, the suspension is the M Sport specification, and it rides on 19-inch tires, so it doesn't offer a magic carpet ride at high speeds. There's a slight choppiness. Furthermore, like other BMWs, vibrations from the road are transmitted to the steering wheel. This is a deliberate setup by BMW, prioritizing steering directness for a sporty car. It's proof that even in a somewhat large "business sedan," the core BMW philosophy of "the ultimate driving machine" remains intact.

The strengths of the M Sport package are evident on winding roads. The joy of navigating a series of tight corners with nimble agility is exceptional. Even during repeated acceleration and braking, the 8-speed automatic transmission intelligently assesses the driving situation to maintain optimal RPMs, allowing for sustained high speeds.

The test model was a "Luxury Line," but it was equipped with the optional Integrated Active Steering and Sport Suspension (including lowered ride height).
The electromechanical Integrated Active Steering features rear-wheel steering, a distinctive characteristic.

Indeed, the 540i sDrive M Sport offers a driving enjoyment that belies its nearly 5-meter length as a four-door sedan. Ultimately, the choice between prioritizing comfort or sportiness depends on the driver's preference, but for me, the ride was slightly too firm.

On the other hand, the accuracy of the cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems has noticeably improved. Features like automatic lane changes initiated by the turn signal and automatic braking when detecting approaching vehicles from the side represent further enhancements in advanced safety equipment, though their benefits were limited within the scope of this test drive. The same applies to smartphone operation; their practicality would likely be appreciated in daily use.

More Appealing Than the Gasoline Engine Model
— BMW 530d xDrive

The inline-six engine is also a concept true to BMW's identity as an engine manufacturer. With Mercedes-Benz also announcing the development of a new inline-six, it's perhaps the final flourish of internal combustion engines. It was fortunate to have the opportunity to enjoy this well-balanced powerplant.

The BMW 530d was equipped with the "xDrive" all-wheel-drive system. While the rear-wheel-drive model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, the xDrive model achieves it in 5.4 seconds, demonstrating the system's effectiveness in converting engine power into motive force. The acceleration capability of a diesel engine vehicle is truly astonishing.

It features a variable turbine geometry turbocharger and the latest generation common-rail direct injection system, with a claimed maximum injection pressure of 2,500 bar.

It is indeed a superb engine. It revs as smoothly as a gasoline engine. Like the 540i, this model was also equipped with the optional Integrated Active Steering and Sport Suspension, emphasizing driving pleasure.

With maximum torque of 620Nm available from 2,000rpm, its powerful delivery is noticeably different from the gasoline engine. On winding roads, similar to the gasoline engine, the 8-speed automatic transmission maintains optimal revs, ensuring a remarkably smooth experience. On the highway, it allows for relaxed cruising while enjoying good music. I found it even more appealing than the gasoline engine model.

The comfort level is also high. The characteristic diesel noise is almost entirely suppressed. To reduce drivetrain noise, SYNTAK (Synergy Thermo Acoustic Capsule) technology is employed, encapsulating the engine and transmission in lightweight sound-absorbing material.

The "Luxury Line" test car emphasizes an elegant character with chrome parts on the kidney grille bars, air breathers, and window frames.

Inside, the leather seat covers with contrast stitching and interior trim with dedicated inlays are eye-catching. The dashboard, finished in leather, exudes a level of luxury approaching that of the 7 Series.

The new 5 Series is expected to be unveiled in January or February 2017. While the specific lineup is yet to be determined, given its high level of refinement, it's unlikely that anyone will regret purchasing it.