This 530e is part of the BMW 5-Series family which has the richest tradition of any model produced by the Munich-based car manufacturer. Presented for the first time in 1972, the BMW 5-Series Sedan is now in its seventh model generation and enjoys global popularity as an executive model for discerning customers.
Meanwhile, it continues to blend a perfect balance of dynamic sharpness and comfort with a larger interior capable of turning its hand to a variety of usage scenarios.
A long list of accolades, including Car of the Year, class winner in the Best Cars Award, Executive Car of the Year and winner of the Connected Car Awards, reflects the outstanding qualities of the current model generation.
From BMW Plant Dingolfing to the world
The new BMW 5-Series, like every one of its predecessors since 1973, has been produced primarily at BMW Plant Dingolfing in Bavaria which is the Group’s centre of excellence for the production of large BMW models.
Among the other cars manufactured here are the BMW 7-Series and BMW 8-Series luxury sports car. The new BMW 5-Series Sedan is also being built by production partner Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria.
Stepping up the road presence: the new exterior
The exterior design of the BMW 5-Series is headlined by sporting grace and clean surfaces. Precise modifications showcase the Sedan and Touring’s presence and exquisite sporting style even more vividly. Large, tautly drawn surfaces at the front and rear, the bold BMW kidney grille and new headlights and rear lights ensure the 5-Series exudes considerable visual impact.
Slight increase in vehicle length, but proportions otherwise unchanged
With their long bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, short overhangs, a long wheelbase and wide tracks, the familiar BMW proportions of the new BMW 5-Series Sedan make no secret of the cars’ dynamic character.
Leading the way once again for aerodynamic drag
With a drag coefficient as low as Cd = 0.23 this facelifted BMW 5-Series models continue to set the standard for aerodynamics in their respective segments. Among the key contributors here are the sophisticated design of the cars’ trim mouldings and the active air flap control system for the radiator.
New headlights with L-shaped daytime driving lights create a focused look
LED headlights with automatic headlight range control are again fitted as standard on the new 5-Series. The two daytime driving light sources – arranged next to one other – are U-shaped, the turn indicators are located in special light modules at the outer edge of the headlights.
The two new optional LED headlights create a totally new appearance. The two L-shaped light tubes arranged next to one another in each light unit have a precise and modern graphic. The new contouring of the headlights and the structure of the light sources at their heart bring a modern twist to the focused look familiar from BMW’s past and present. With these units, the outer daytime driving lights also perform the role of turn indicators.
This latest version of the 530e was launched in May 2021, just 6 months ago for RM334,353. Now, some of you might be worried about the battery system in any BMW hybrid. Well, in June 2020 BMW Malaysia extended its current PHEV battery warranty programme for its BMW and MINI vehicles by an additional 2 Years and 60,000km, bringing the programme to a total of 8 Years or 160,000km (whichever comes first).
How exactly is the drive on the highway and back roads with this car? Well, the BMW handling heritage remains. Let us explain.
Away from the traffic filled city roads this 530e will show off its best attributes. Forget any pre-conceived ideas of lack-luster heavy handling due to its sheer size and weight. There are a lot of performance sedans out there that will protest at the thought of a quick sweeping corner.
Not this 530e. Its given DNA means turn in is sharper than you would expect, body roll kept to the barest minimum, with more steering feel than some less focused peers.
When it comes to the ride quality, this 5 PHEV impressed us. The ride remained very supple under badly maintained tarmac despite its run-flat tires. The chassis and suspension handled most bumps without throwing the car out of control. You can hit a rough patch on the road, and of course you will feel it, but you won’t be uncomfortable to the point that your body takes any force.
The steering wheel allows for a solid feel on the road, but not too much. The 8-speed automatic, left either to its own devices or driven via steering column-mounted paddles, is smooth and quick and it blips the throttle on downshifts.
In other words, it is very agile and enjoyable leaving the driver to quickly forget its size and weight. Despite its sporting DNA, the taut firm yet comfortable suspension manages to isolate all but the worst of the tarmac on the outer limits of Klang Valley roads, without compromising cabin comfort, especially in the rear.
Also, in case you happen to be a few who want to save fuel and reduce emissions, this BMW 5 PHEV is rated to consume only 2.3l/100km of fuel with a CO2 emission of 53g/km. The electric motor is capable of an all-electric range of up to 67 kilometers (NEDC correlated) – making all-electric city driving and short journeys possible if you know how to work it.
Meanwhile, if you happen to prefer a pure petrol powered 5 Series, you can buy the 530i M Sport for RM396,000. Yes, it is RM65,000 more expensive as it does not enjoy the import duty rebate that PHEV’s enjoy in Malaysia.
Specifications BMW 530e Sport PHEV
Engine 4-cylinder Petrol
Capacity 1998cc
Transmission 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
Max Output 292bhp + 40bhp with Xtra Boost
Max Torque 420Nm
0-100km/h 5.9 seconds
Top Speed 235km/h
Price: RM334,353
