2020 BMW 530i M Sport Review: Dynamically Efficient
Ben Chia
18/12/2020
That’s the ‘Efficient’ part sorted then, but how about the ‘Dynamics’? To be fair, the 5 Series is quite a large car now, and while it definitely won’t be as engaging to drive as, say, its E39 ancestor from the 90s, it does pretty well for a car of its size. The steering is light and the car is generally quite easy to manoeuvre, and it’s probably still the best driving car in its class.
What’s rather surprising though is the 530i’s ride quality. Previous experiences with BMW’s M Sport suspensions have shown quite simply, very uncomfortable ride quality in Singapore, such is their tendency to crash over every single road imperfection.
But the one in the 530i felt surprisingly controlled, and generally coped well over most surfaces, perhaps because it’s equipped with adaptive dampers. It still transmits harsher bumps into the cabin, but on the whole the 530i’s ride can actually be described as mostly comfortable – cue a sigh of relief from the CarBuyer Team.
Elsewhere, the updated 5 Series introduces features already seen in recent newer BMWs, such as the Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) voice activation system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the Reversing Assistant function that helps you back up out of tight sports for distances of up to 50 metres. The infotainment system has also been upgraded to the latest BMW OS 7.0.
Watch the video below to find out how you can talk to a BMW intelligently, let it find whatever you want, and even avoid jams and slowdowns
Externally, the facelifted 5 Series can be identified by its wider and flatter grille that is now connected to the headlights, which are now redesigned and incorporate L-shaped LED elements. The rear is more subtle, with only slightly rejigged taillights to mark the car out.
But while the 5 Series doesn’t look too different from its pre-facelift brethren, it’s the changes under the skin that has really transformed it. With its combination of effective performance and hugely impressive efficiency, it seems like the 5 Series has truly embodied the spirit of efficient dynamics.
BMW 530i M Sport
| Engine | 1,998cc, inline 4, turbocharged |
| Power | 252hp at 5200-6500rpm |
| Torque | 350Nm at 1450-4800rpm |
| Gearbox | 8-speed automatic |
| 0-100km/h | 6.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 250km/h |
| VES Band / CO2 | B / 127g/km |
| Fuel Efficiency | 5.6L/100km |
| Agent | Performance Motors |
| Price | S$293,888 with COE |
| Availability | Now |
| Verdict: | New mild hybrid tech transforms the 5 Series into a hugely effective and highly efficient luxury cruising machine |
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About the Author
Ben Chia
CarBuyer's print editor went out to explore the Great Big World, including a stint working in China (despite his limited Mandarin). Now he's back, ready to foist upon you his takes on everything good and wonderful about the automotive world. Follow Ben on Instagram @carbuyer.ben
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