2018 BMW 5-Series

Pros: Ride and handling balance; extensive range of technology and safety features; even base 530i model offers spirited acceleration

Cons: Steep prices escalate even further as options are added; rear-seat legroom is not particularly generous

CG Says: After its redesign last year, the 2018 BMW 5-Series adds four new models. The high-performance M5 returns with a twin-turbocharged 600-horsepower 4.4-liter V-8, performance suspension, and standard all-wheel drive. The sporty M550i xDrive is powered by a 456-horsepower twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 and has sport suspension and standard all-wheel drive. The 530e plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with an electric motor to produce a total of 248 hp and is available with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The 540d is powered by 261-hp 3.0-liter 6-cylinder turbodiesel and has standard all-wheel drive. The new models join the existing 530i (powered by a 248-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder) and the 540i (powered by a 335-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder). All models have an 8-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo four-door hatchback is replaced by a new 6-Series Gran Turismo (see separate report). The 5-Series is a premium midsize sedan with a comprehensive list of technology and safety equipment. Available luxury/technology features include ventilated and massaging front seats, rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, remote control parking, and BMW’s Gesture Control system (which enables certain infotainment controls to be operated via hand gestures, without touching physical buttons or knobs). Available safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, and steering-linked LED headlights, and BMW’s Fatigue and Focus Alert system. BMW’s 530i, 540i, and 540d offerings are dynamic premium sport sedans that offer an immersive driving experience with the expected array of coddling luxury and technology features. The M5, M550i, and 530e up the ante for performance and high-tech efficiency, respectively. Any 5-Series offers a compelling blend of nimble performance and high-end ambiance, but you’ll have to pay for it. Base prices are steep, and much of the equipment you’d expect to be standard on a luxury car costs extra.