2020 BMW 5 Series

BMW has gone way ahead with the latest 5-series when it comes to tech features. It has introduced several fresh features such as the voice recognition system, Apple CarPlay, 3-D simulation and many other semi-autonomous features that poses a real threat to other competitors in the midrange luxury sedan segment including the defending champion Audi A6 which hit the record sales last year.

The base 530i variant is packed with a 2-liter inline-4 cylinder turbocharged engine to produce a maximum power of 248 hp. The 540i levels up the game with a few additional standard features and a turbocharged 335-hp 3-liter inline-6 cylinder engine. An option of all-wheel drive(AWD) is offered with both the variants. 

Trims	BMW 530i	BMW 540i
MSRP (RWD)	$53,900	$59,450
MSRP (AWD)	$56,200	$61,750
Key Features	Air Curtains and Air Breather system	Live Cockpit Professional
	Electronic throttle control	Electronically controlled engine cooling (map cooling)
	Brake Energy Regeneration	Rear-wheel drive system
	Twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers	Double-wishbone multi-link aluminum front suspension
	Electromechanical parking brake	Black Chrome Exhaust Tips
	Expanded Check Control vehicle monitor system	Active Kidney Grille

Talking of packages, the BMW 5-series comes with numerous options that add a lot of flair to this sedan. Some of the most notable ones include:

Package Name	Driving Assistance Plus Package	Dynamic Handling Package	Lighting Package
Cost	$1,700	$1,650	$1,050
Features	Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go	Dynamic Damper Control	Adaptive Full LED Lights
	Active Driving Assistant	M Sport Brakes	Automatic High Beams
		Integral Active Steering

We recommend

Although the 530i provides enough power and comfort, the 540i comes loaded with additional features with a more powerful engine which makes it worth paying a little more money for. No matter which trims you choose but the driver-assist package is surely a must-have which includes the active steering, heated seats, and additional safety features.

BMW has brought up a wide range of engine and drivetrain options to choose from. The 2020 BMW base variant 530i is powered by the 2-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine which produces a maximum power of 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The transmission duties are carried out by an 8-speed automatic gearbox which is the only option in all variants.

A purist can opt for 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six-cylinder which dishes out  335 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque and comes to the same 8-speed automatic transmission.

People who crave for a more individual touch, the transmission has a manual mode that permits you to use the paddle shifts. The Launch Control is a nice addition for exhibiting off the grunt of the engine at the traffic lights if not much else. You get RWD as standard while AWD can be had with both variants as an option.

Models	BMW 540i xDrive	Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic	Audi A6 Prestige	Volvo S90
MSRP	$61,750	$61,550	$63,700	$53,650
Engine	3.0L Turbocharged inline-6	3.0L Biturbo V6	3.0L Turbocharged V6	Twin-Charged 2.0L inline-4
Drivetrain	AWD	AWD	AWD	AWD
Transmission	8-Speed Sport Automatic w/ Manual Mode and Launch Control	9-Speed G-Tronic Automatic	7-Speed S Tronic Dual-Clutch Automatic	8-Speed Geartronic Automatic with Adaptive Shift
Power (hp @ rpm)	335@6,500	362@6,000	335@5,000	316@5,700
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm)	331@1,500	369@1,800	369@1,370	295@2,200

The 2020 BMW 5-series lies at the bottom when it comes to torque and just inches ahead of Volvo S 90 in power though it uses an engine of similar size and costs at least a grand more than all its competitors. The most powerful luxury sedan medal goes to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class with its unusual Biturbo V6 engine, which makes over 360 hp. 

Acceleration

Despite its mediocre performance in terms of torque and power, the 2020 BMW 5-series shows top-notch performance in terms of acceleration. The 530i pulls up from 0-60 in just 6 seconds which is fastest among the rivals. Taking advantage of the legacy of lighter craftsmanship that comes with the brand, the 5-series puts up a fabulous figure of 14.4 sec in the quarter-mile mark.

The 540i xDrive can climb from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds and covering a quarter-mile run in 13.8 seconds, the BMW 5-series displays a lot in terms of becoming a true sports sedan. 

Models	BMW 540i xDrive	Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic	Audi A6 Prestige	Volvo S90
0-60 MPH (sec)	4.5	5.0	5.1	5.6
Quarter Mile (sec)	13.8	13.6	14.2	14.1
Top Speed (MPH)	130	130	153	130
Engine	3.0L Turbocharged inline-6	3.0L Biturbo V6	3.0L Turbocharged V6	Twin-Charged 2.0L inline-4
Emission (tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15k mi/year)	5.9	6.5	6.0	5.9

Interestingly, the Volvo S90 is not that tardy despite its petty engine. It is essentially because of the practical use of both a supercharger and a turbocharger to cause the swede to go wild. The Audi A6 has a solid Quattro AWD method to profit from the traction but its gearbox lands in the way of passing that power to the wheels more dramatically.

Ride and Handling 

The sedan offers snappy handling and shows quick movements even on narrow corners. The steering is amazing but not as responsive as the M6. The sport mode works just fine but the comfort mode feels more premium, matching the luxury of a 7-series sedan. Being a BMW it definitely justifies their signature line- ‘Sheer driving pleasure’.

The electronically outlined engine cooling makes 540i's powerhouse is kept at peak shape even with varying weather or driving modes. The M-Package adds the M-suspension and M-steering wheel and while serving together complements to its driving dynamics. An instantaneous hike in the performance is due to its harmonised TwinPower engine which is intended for road slides and the final touches to the performance are courtesy of the M package. Yet, don't expect it to impress you, when out on the track.

Braking

The 530i's braking is as smooth as it can get but also powerful when you need it. The car can come to a halt from 60 mph in just 108 ft which is one of the best in the segment while the Mercedes- Benz is a bit lazy hits the bottom of the chart. The ABS helps in maintaining the car’s stability and composure even when one goes hard on the pedal.

 With highlights like Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying, and Stop-and-Go assist, you can rather, recline in the belief that the brakes will be eager as soon as needed.

Models	BMW 540i xDrive	Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic	Audi A6 Prestige	Volvo S90
Brake Rotors Front (in)	N/A	14.2	12.7	13.6
Brake Rotors Rear (in)	N/A	12.6	11.8	12.6
Curb Weight (lbs)	3942	4134	4266	4819
60-0 MPH (ft)	108	110	103	107

Being lighter than the Mercedes-Benz, it is better in terms of braking. Not solid enough to excel the Audi A6 or an S90 sedan, though. Both these cars profit from a better AWD system that awards them much better traction than the BMW, in turn strengthening the braking performance.

The BMW 530i maintains a combined fuel economy of 29 mpg which helps it share the podium of the table with Audi A6. Despite pretty good economy figures as a whole, the BMW 7-series seems to be a bit thirsty when it comes to city roads. Also, by a massive 18-gallon fuel tank, you can travel a lot of distance before pausing at a gas station wanting a refill.

Model	BMW 540i xDrive	Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic	Audi A6 Prestige	Volvo S90
MPG (City)	22	20	22	21
MPG (Highway)	29	28	29	31
MPG (Combined)	25	23	24	25
Fuel Capacity (Gallons)	18.0	21.1	19.3	15.9
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) (mi)	396/522/450	400/557/485	463/618/463	334/493/397

Volvo S90 is the most fuel-efficient in the city, while the highway economy is the same for all. Audi and Mercedes follow behind, with identical figures. Highway economy figures are the same for all cars here.

The interior of the 2020 BMW 5-series is surely exquisite. The dual-tone leather and tasteful use of chrome at minute places like air vents and knobs show the carmaker’s focus on luxury. The interior of this sedan is undoubtedly better than its primitive but doesn't hit the 7-series benchmark.

The heated armrests in front and rear, ambient carpet lighting and futuristically designed customizable dashboard don't just look amazing but also work fluently with every move of the passenger.

5 passengers can easily settle in the cabin and with comfort. Sufficient legroom and headroom keep the cockpit breathy and spacious. Add in a few features like air aroma and circulation and this car can go up against any Audi or Merc in this price range.

Model	BMW 540i xDrive	Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic	Audi A6 Prestige	Volvo S90
Passenger capacity	5	5	5	5
Front Room(Head/Shoulder/Leg)(in.)	38.8/58.7/41.4	37.9/57.8/41.3	38.0/57.8/41.3	37.8/57.5/42.2
Rear Room(Head/Shoulder/Leg)(in.)	37.5/55.9/36.5	38.2/56.9/35.8	38.1/56.5/37.4	37.8/55.4/40.4

The 5-series leads the segment in headroom but its smaller wheelbase as compared to its competitors inhibits ample room in the rear cabin space and drags it down in the chart. The cabin is quiet enough unless you're on city roads at peak hours and there's lots of honking noise.

Interior Features

The interior features of the 2020 BMW 530i include:

• Power sunshade
• Key Fob trunk/hatch/door release
• Power windows
• 5 12V DC power outlets
• Sunroof/convertible roof FOB controls
• Navigation system
• Retained accessory power
• Day-night rearview mirror
• Heated sport steering wheel with power tilting, power telescoping, auto tilt-away
• Distance pacing cruise control
• Automatic temperature control
• Remote window controls
• Emergency communication system

Infotainment system

The 2020 BMW 5 Series receives two notable upgrades: the iDrive 7 infotainment system and the joining of BMW's latest Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation display. The iDrive system can be utilized to control the cool 10.25-inch central display by voice, via the touchscreen, or using the conventional touchpad central controller. While there is a fundamental learning curve to master, the system is very instinctive and smooth. 

The 2020 BMW 530i comes fitted with infotainment features such as:

• SiriusXM AM/FM/HD/Satellite with seek-scan
• Multi-source rear audio controls
• Speed sensitive volume
• Primary monitor touchscreen
• 2 2nd row LCD monitor
• 16 premium speakers
• 600W amplifier
• Audio theft deterrent
• Steering-wheel mounted audio controls
• Smart device integration
• Head-up display
• Reverse sensing system
• Systems monitor 

Cargo Capacity 

The clever design of BMW5-Series manages to make up a huge space for the rear boot. The credit goes to the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats. Despite being smaller in length, this car provides generous 18.7 ft-cube of the cargo space which is great for the segment.

Despite being smaller in length, this car provides generous 18.7 ft-cube of the cargo space which is great for the segment.

Model	2020 BMW 530i 4dr Rear-wheel Drive Sedan	2020 BMW 530e iPerformance 4dr Rear-wheel Drive Sedan	2020 Mercedes Benz Base E 350 4dr Rear-wheel Drive Sedan
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	18.7	14.5	13.1

When matched with different sedans in the division, the BMW certainly surpasses everyone. The cargo can fit up to 6 carries on suitcases. 

Unlike the X7 and 7 Series, for now, the 5 Series preserves a more concise primitively-sized grille design, and it's all the better for it. This ensures a beautiful and dignified mid-size sedan but, for some, the 5 is a bit too cautious in its styling. BMW 540i is highest in the segment which gives it a coupe look, making ample headroom in the cabin. 

The sedan is lighter than its older sibling due to its cutting-edge design featuring high-strength aluminum chassis which gives it unmatched acceleration and handling yet stable and strong build quality.  The BMW 5-Series also offers a decent ground clearance of 6.2 inches.

Model	BMW 540i xDrive	Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic	Audi A6 Prestige	Volvo S90
Curb weight (lbs.)	3942	4134	4266	4819
Length(in)	194.6	193.8	194.4	200.1
Width(in)	73.5	72.9	74.3	74.4
Height(in)	58.2	57.8	57.4	57.1
Ground clearance (in)	5.5	4.3	6.5	6.0
Wheelbase (in)	117.1	115.7	115.1	120.5
Track width F/R(in)	63.0/63.9	62.8/63.0	64.2/63.7	63.7/63.7

Audi A6 has the largest ground clearance, great for saving the underbelly from scraping at any surface. Offroading isn't in the official description for any, but taking the beaten path won't be too challenging for these cars.

Exterior Features

On the exterior front, the 2020 BMW 530i comes with exterior features such as:

• Galvanized steel/aluminum body material
• Black grille with chrome surround
• Turn signal indicator mirrors
• Auto-dimming power remote left side-view door mirror
• Body-colored front and rear bumpers
• Metallic paint
• Chrome tip exhaust
• Heated power-folding side-view door mirrors 
• Power open and close trunk

The 2020 BMW 5-Series comes with all the essential safety features as per standards. The features include:

• Front and rear ventilated disc brakes
• Remote activated perimeter/approach lights
• Manual adjustable front head restraints
• Dual front impact airbags
• Side-impact bars
• Electronic stability
• Forward collision warning
• Four-wheel ABS brakes
• Traction control
• Run-flat rear tires
• Brake assist
• Front seatbelt pretensioners

2020 BMW 530i/540i  vs 2020 Volvo S90

The Volvo S90 comes loaded with a similar-sized engine that produces the same power and torque as that of a BMW. The Volvo has a better base package than that of BMW's with all the essential features like parking assist, remote locking, and smartphone-integrated infotainment system at a lesser cost than BMW. However, the price difference seems to make sense when we look at the premium styling, handling, comfort, and fuel economy of the 2020 BMW 5-series.

2020 BMW 530i/540i  vs 2020 Audi A6 L

The Audi A6 L is powered by a 2-liter 4 cylinder engine that produces the best in class power and torque. It also offers a plush and luxurious interior equivalent to the BMW's but 5-series basically one-ups A6 in the driving experience as A6 isn't as responsive as 530i, also the ride quality is quite poor due to larger alloy wheels.

2020 BMW 530i/540i VS 2020 Mercedes Benz Base E 350 

Conflict of comfort sedans, the 530i fights well with the E350. Requiring a few dollars more than the 2020 530i, the Merc E350 makes somewhat more power and added torque. Both cars are comfort-focused and are built for cruising. Buy the Merc E350 for its very pure driving experience while getting the BMW 530i available in 2020 will give you a lively transmission, various drive modes and various combinations to choose from. 

BMW 5-series offers great efficiency along with the effortless handling, impressive driving dynamics, and stout acceleration. The car doesn't feel exceptional and lacks punch on straight highways due to its less powerful engine, however, the luxury of the cabin and Sub-autonomous features make up for it.

So, if you're looking for a good car around 50 grand and won't mind spending some more money on the lucrative add-on packages.