BMW might have its SUVs like the X1 as its best-selling product but the fact is that the carmaker is best known for its sedans like the 3 and the 5 Series. Hence, the launch of the new generation 5 Series is a big moment but more so because is a 5 Series LWB or a long wheelbase. This is the first time that a long wheelbase model has been launched in India and that too at an aggressive price of only Rs 72.9 lakh. But the question is how good is the new 5 Series LWB? Here is our review
Exteriors
The new BMW 5 Series now is much longer and bigger than before. Indian market does not get the standard wheelbase version as that is only for the imported i5. The 5 Series standard now comes with a long wheelbase only. This means a length of 5165mm and a width of 1900mm while the wheelbase is a huge 3,105mm. It is the largest car in its class and that means it now looks more like a 7-Series. It is a bold looking sedan with the large BMW kidney grille plus equally large swept back Matrix LED headlamps. There is an MSport kit but the standard 18inch alloys look a bit small while bigger 19-inchs are optional. The rear door is very long too while the grille is illuminated. It certainly looks sportier while paint finish is fantastic as expected.
Interiors
The rear doors are very long and take effort to open/close. That said, you can walk into the cabin as the rear is not too low and makes it easier to get in and out. The space inside is tremendous and it feels huge while you can really lounge here. The rear seat is the talking point and legroom is fantastic. Head room is also good while you sink into the seat which also wraps you from the sides. The huge glass roof also covers most of the roof and that adds a sense of space. There are soft cushions and some gadgets but you do not get sunblinds or any adjustment at the rear which is something buyers could expect.
There is a wireless phone charger and a small touchscreen for the climate control but there is no TV here unlike the Chinese version. The design of the interior is sleek and much like all the BMWs with a large curved display. A large 14.9-inch touchscreen is curved and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster too. The touchscreen has nice and sharp display while being easy to use while some important functions are here instead of being physically present on the dashboard. In terms features, it gets an interaction bar like the bigger 7 Series plus 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system, ventilated and powered seats, glass roof and more including some ADAS features. We will also say that the lighting plus the crystal design theme is also appreciated.
Driving experience
Surprisingly there is no diesel for now as India gets a 2.0l turbo petrol with a mild hybrid electric boost. The 530Li gets a 2.0 litre turbo petrol which pumps out 258bhp and 400Nm plus a 48v mild hybrid system linked. An 8-speed automatic is standard while the Indian market does not get air suspension. The 5 Series LWB is quick but smooth as the engine is silent at low revs. When you first drive the 5 Series, it does not feel so big but the suspension is much softer than the earlier version since this model is now focussed towards ride comfort. It is fast enough but it builds power in a linear fashion which is justified. The ground clearance also seems good enough for our roads but the huge length is something you need to be careful of. There is a sport mode and with that you get plenty of fun and it does feel quick.
Verdict
The new 5 Series LWB is priced at Rs 72.9 lakh while there is also a buyback scheme with 72 percent too. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the new 5 Series LWB is cheaper and is priced quite well. It offers a lot of space and has elegant looks for the price while it is now offering what buyers in this class want. While BMW may not have provided some crucial features, it is a great value for money luxury car and we recommend a buy.
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