2017 BMW 530d Review | The Bavarian Executive Express Is A Technological Specimen
Forget what you learnt in maths class because these days seven goes easily into five. Take this new-generation 2017 BMW 530d as a prime example of how and why.
At first glance this is a traditional full-sized sedan. Now more than ever, though, the new 5 Series offers among the most advanced technology found in any segment of vehicle at any price. Plus, there’s a hefty helping of old-school luxury items as well.
Yet it would still be calling it short to say that 5 Series now mimics 7 Series, because this vehicle is even more indulgent than its stretched sibling of only a few years ago.
There has, however, been a good reason why seven hasn’t always easily gone into five – this BMW has long been a driver’s car, not a chauffeur special. So has the new 530d’s character changed, and if so, is it for better or worse?
Vehicle Style: Large sedan
Price: $119,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine/trans: 195kW/620Nm 3.0 six-cylinder turbo diesel | eight-speed automatic
Fuel Economy Claimed: 4.7 L/100km | Tested: 8.2 L/100km
OVERVIEW
BMW believes the $108,900 (plus on-road costs) 530i with a 185kW/350Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol will be the most popular 5 Series. But surely the $11K stretch to this identically equipped $119,900 (plus orc) 530d appears even greater value, for the upgrade to the 195kW/620Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel six-cylinder alone.
Even claimed combined-cycle fuel consumption falls, from 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres for the 530i, to an astonishing 4.7L/100km here with this 530d. Meanwhile the respective 0-100km/h performance times are 6.2 seconds and 5.7sec.