The new BMW 5 Series is a standout in the UK’s executive saloon market, balancing sporty performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. With its mix of petrol, diesel, and now fully electric options, this latest generation of the 5 Series caters to a wide range of UK drivers, from company car users to those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Exterior Design:
On UK roads, the 5 Series is instantly recognisable, with its signature kidney grille, sleek LED headlights, and sharper lines giving it a sportier, more aggressive stance. The subtle, refined design will appeal to those looking for an understated executive saloon. The M Sport models, popular among British drivers, feature additional styling touches like larger alloy wheels, a more aggressive front bumper, and side skirts. Despite its size, the 5 Series maintains a streamlined profile, making it feel dynamic and responsive, whether on the motorway or navigating through city traffic.
Interior:
Stepping inside, the new 5 Series feels every bit the premium saloon. In typical BMW fashion, the cabin is driver-focused, with an emphasis on comfort and technology. The standout feature is the curved dual-display system, seamlessly blending the digital instrument cluster with the infotainment screen running BMW’s iDrive 8.5. This system offers crystal-clear graphics and easy access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The infotainment also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, vital for British drivers relying on apps like Google Maps and Spotify for their commutes.
Space is abundant, especially in the back where UK passengers will appreciate the added legroom. With its luxurious leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and available four-zone climate control, the 5 Series ensures that both the driver and passengers travel in comfort, whether it’s a cross-country drive or a quick run into town.
Powertrains:
The UK line-up offers a variety of powertrains to suit different needs. Traditionalists can opt for the familiar 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engines, which remain popular due to their balance of power and fuel efficiency. The diesels, in particular, remain a favourite in Britain, where long-distance motorway journeys are common, and the 48-volt mild-hybrid tech adds efficiency without sacrificing performance.
For those moving towards electrification, the BMW i5 is the headline model. Offering up to 335 bhp and a range of around 295 miles, the i5 is perfectly suited for the UK’s growing electric vehicle infrastructure. It also supports fast charging, with the ability to gain around 80 miles of range in just 10 minutes, ideal for busy schedules. The high-performance i5 M60 brings even more excitement to the table with 590 bhp, making it one of the quickest executive saloons on British roads.
The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of the 5 Series will also appeal to UK buyers looking to reduce their company car tax bills, thanks to their low emissions and ability to run on electric power alone for short trips. For city commuters, this is an ideal solution, especially with the UK government’s push for greener vehicles and clean air zones.
Driving Experience:
BMW’s reputation for driving dynamics holds firm with the new 5 Series. Whether it’s cruising down the M1 or tackling winding B-roads in the countryside, the car delivers a confident, engaging experience. Adaptive suspension and a range of driving modes allow you to tailor the car’s responses, ensuring that the 5 Series feels both sporty and comfortable depending on your needs.
The fully electric i5 brings a new dimension to the range, with instant torque providing rapid acceleration and a smooth, quiet drive. It’s an excellent choice for those who want the performance BMW is known for, but with zero emissions—a growing priority for many UK drivers, especially as cities like London tighten their restrictions on older, more polluting vehicles.
Technology & Features:
The new 5 Series comes equipped with the latest tech aimed at improving the driving experience. The iDrive 8.5 system features a slick interface, supported by advanced voice controls, which is particularly handy when navigating busy city streets or motorways. British drivers will also appreciate the augmented reality navigation, which overlays directions onto a live feed of the road, making it easier to navigate unfamiliar areas.
The car is also packed with driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and highway assist for semi-autonomous driving on long motorway journeys. Parking in tight UK spaces is made easier with a 360-degree camera and automated parking functions.
Verdict:
The new BMW 5 Series is an excellent choice for UK drivers seeking a versatile, luxurious executive saloon. With a range of powertrain options, including the innovative BMW i5, it offers something for everyone, whether you’re after sporty performance or a greener drive. Add to that a spacious, high-tech interior and BMW’s renowned driving dynamics, and you have a car that’s well-suited to British roads, long motorway trips, and urban driving alike.