Sports dynamics available as a hybrid
The BMW 5 Series is produced as a saloon, estate (Touring) and coupe (Gran Turismo). It's available in both petrol and diesel engines with the capacity from 1.9 to 4.4 liters. There is also the BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid, which is a saloon with a V6 engine combined with an electric motor under its hood.
The German automaker presents BMW 5 Series as "embodiment of a modern executive car," including a combination of sports dynamics, elegant appearance and high tech equipment.
You can drive it using a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission, starting at CZK 1.17 million. The most expensive model with standard equipment is the sport model M5 which starts at CZK 2.9 million.
Regarding the equipment, two lines are available - Modern Line and Luxury Line. There are many kinds of options to choose from, such as upholstery, decor, tires, and wheel rims. The most expensive items on the very extensive list of optional equipment is a sports package called Competition which includes an increase in engine power to 423 kW and a sport chassis and driving.
Cheap operation, but expensive equipment
The BMW 5 Series got all five stars on the Whatcar website. It was even rated as the third best executive car of 2016 (after Audi A4 and Skoda Superb). The Whatcar's review highlighted great driving thanks to variable dampers, low cost of operation and the entertaining iDrive system which serves to control board systems. However, Whatcar criticized the lack of standard safety kit and expensive optional equipment.
The British server Autoexpress considers the BMW 5 Series the best executive car in terms of driving, even with a manual gearbox, particularly highlighting diesel engines. However, as far as appearance, it criticizes excessive conservatism (with the exception of the sport model M5). In comparison with Mercedes E-Class, Autoexpress considers BMW 5 Series design and built-in technology less advanced and not exclusive.
Carbuyer ranked BMW 5 Series 4.4 out of 5 points. The roominess inside the car, inexpensive operation and great driving were appreciated the most. Critical comments focused on expensive optional equipment and "unadventurous" design. The review also states that the Mercedes E-Class offers more advanced technologies.
The Top Gear magazine gave the BMW 5 Series 8 out of 10 points. The combination of variable dampers and active driving was considered the greatest quality of these cars. Since nobody buys petrol BMW 5 Series, diesel engines are a much better choice. Regarding the size of the car's interior, it is optimal for four passengers since the fifth would be squeezed on the rear seat. In terms of operation costs, it is the best car in its class.
What do you think about the BMW 5 Series? Do you have experience with different car types in this series? Share it with us in the discussion.
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Phptos: www.bmw.cz