BMW 5 Series LWB 530Li review: technology, features, practicality,

The BMW 5 Series has always stood out from its German rivals for the simple reason that no other car focuses on the driving experience as much as it does. Now, the latest generation of the 5 Series signals a change in approach, as the comfort of rear-seat passengers is now a priority. To achieve this, the 5 Series is now larger than ever. But does this also mean an increase in overall appeal? Well, let’s find out.

BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase Review: Bigger, Better?

The new BMW 5 Series has been improved in every way. India will now get the long-wheelbase (LWB) version of the 5 Series, making it the second country in the world after China to get the long-wheelbase version. The highlight of the size growth is of course the wheelbase – now measuring a staggering 3,105 mm. To put it simply, it is not only longer than the outgoing standard-wheelbase 5 Series, but also longer than the BMW 6 Series GT, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB and even the upcoming E-Class LWB (which has already been unveiled in India and is scheduled to be launched later this year). To be more precise, its overall length, width and height have also increased, making it the largest car in its class.

It’s no wonder that the first thing you notice about this car is its massive size. To those familiar with the BMW range, the new 5 Series feels about the same size as the 7 Series from a few generations ago. Now, it’s obvious that the BMW designers have done their best to disguise its size, but I must add that I don’t think they succeeded – the design just doesn’t work. Let me try to explain why.

Up front, new wing-shaped headlight clusters feature vertical LED signatures and are located on either side of a decently sized grille. While not as large as the grille on the 7 Series, it still lights up – a feature that may be attractive to some and garish to others. The bumper has also been updated, and the front face now has a lot of vertical elements that help increase the sense of height. From the side, the iconic Hofmeister corner has been subtly smoothed out, and a badge with the number “5” appears on the C-pillar. Now, unlike the Chinese version of the 5 Series LWB, this model does not come with illuminated side badges, and according to BMW, this is because upcoming regulations restrict lighting elements on the side profile of cars above a certain height. The roofline flows into the trunk lid in an almost coupe-like manner.

Additionally, the front overhang is noticeably longer than before, which, combined with the 18-inch alloy wheels, makes the car’s stance feel a little less sporty than we’ve come to expect from a 5 Series. At the rear, the design takes a completely different approach, with horizontal elements, including the slim taillights. Our test car had metallic grey trim throughout, but customers can also opt for bronze trim.

BMW 5 Series LWB review: It’s all about the interior?

Yes! Once you get a feel for the car’s size and design and step inside, you enter a cabin that takes heavy inspiration from the 7 Series and looks and feels several notches above the outgoing model.

The highlight of the front is the crystal-like ambient lighting that runs through the dashboard, reminiscent of the 7 Series, although not continuously. But there is nothing to complain about, because the overall atmosphere of the cabin is very futuristic. The air-conditioning vents are hidden behind the center console touch screen, and the dashboard is decorated with two large digital screens – the best in the class – which adds to the overall technological feel of the cabin. Everything here feels premium, making the cabin hard to pick on.

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In the back, the increased length of the car means there’s plenty of legroom, even without adjusting the front passenger seat. While BMW decided not to equip the rear seats with a reclining system – unlike the Mercedes-Benz E-Class – the seats are still very comfortable. However, there are some notable flaws. For example, there are no blinds for the windows and rear glass panel, and there are no screens behind the front seats for the rear passengers’ entertainment. Still, it does have a 4-zone climate control system, a huge panoramic glass roof, plush neck pillows and a foldable center armrest that also comes with a wireless charging pad. In short, while there are a few things missing, there’s nothing to complain about in terms of overall comfort.

As far as features are concerned, it ticks all the boxes. You get things like a high-quality 360-degree parking camera with parking assist, electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, front seat ventilation, a head-up display, an electrically powered boot with a storage capacity of 500 litres, a 655W Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and more.

BMW 5 Series LWB review: Is it still a driver’s car?

The 5 Series will be offered in a 530Li model, which is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine. This engine can propel this giant car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds thanks to a 48V mild-hybrid system. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels only. It also has a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, if you’re interested.

In terms of the driving experience, the 5 Series continues to impress. The ride setup is excellent – it provides ample feedback to the driver and allows for precise adjustments when cornering. Even on rough roads, the new 5 Series handles well, thanks largely to its 18-inch alloy wheels. Granted, they’re not as pretty as we’d like them to be, but those big sidewalls contribute to a very comfortable ride.

During our time with the car, the underbody was not scraped once despite the added length, which is very impressive. But it’s not perfect. You see, the 530Li LWB is clearly tuned for a comfortable ride, which may be a bit disappointing to BMW purists. But when you compare it to its competitors, there’s no doubt that the 5 Series is still the best choice for those who like a comfortable and capable vehicle for a weekend getaway.

BMW 5 Series LWB review: Conclusion

The new BMW 5 Series has a clear goal in mind, and the change in its approach is to that end. While it may not be as sporty or look as sharp as before, it is definitely the most luxurious and spacious 5 Series yet. Its focus is on offering the best blend of comfort and sportiness in the segment, and from the looks of it, it has achieved its goal. I would go so far as to say that even before the new E-Class came to India, BMW had already laid claim to being the best in the world in its segment.