2019 BMW 540i xDrive Review - The Best Real World BMW?

[@Manu-Official]

An engine at the front, a sofa in the middle, and a cave at the back, great package.

[@RichardGSweet]

"Just a 540i xDrive" 🤔 I think you're getting a bit spoilt lately, James. 😂

[@koko_5662]

A humble 540i, no fucking way buddy. North South divide eh. With avg UK salary about 28/29k this is still a hefty price for most people/ running costs.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Humble does not mean cheap. I feel like car mags only ever talk about the M5 and ignore the whole rest of the range, of which the 540i isnt even the top

[@koko_5662]

@@JayEmmOnCars I know what you mean. This sits just inside of car «real world» and that’s why it’s comes across a bit OTT to refer to it that way. Good review either way. 👍

[@jimj2683]

@@JayEmmOnCars What is the best allround family-car in your opinion? I am leaning a bit toward this 540i myself, but perhaps something like a panamera is much better? Or even a cayenne?

[@adrianhazzard6665]

@@jimj2683 you run the risk of ruinous bills with those cars

[@brendan7632]

I drive an e60 530 that’s going to be turning 18 years old this year. There is nothing for the price that I would rather drive. It’s probably worth 2-4grand. Most 10 grand cars wouldn’t be as good. Amazing engine (m54) and heavy, meaty steering that makes the car feel so solid, even at 18 years old. James it right, Old BMWs just hit different

[@charles-h9e]

Im nearly with you. Have the better n52 6 speed manual, selling on ebay atm. I replaced with a 4.2 supercharged XF, a bit of an improvement all around in my view. Not a massive step, paid 5800, on a bit over 7000 after fixing its issues. Basically XFR spec, body kit wheels etc. But no diff. Short of e90 m3/f10m5/full proper XFR, c63 amg etc. Nearer 20 grand options it was the only thing I could justify

[@antoniohinojos3808]

E61 here mate, 535d so M57... and you're absolutely right, for the price performance ratio, you just cant beat them. Really hope these new ones age just as well.

[@marsmellow1589]

And even that generation as already a decline compared to the E39/E46

[@left_foot_brake]

How often does this car let you down mechanically? I would love something similar but I don't want my wife to be stranded. Glad to hear you love it, they drive beautifully

[@brendan7632]

@@left_foot_brake it’s never left my stranded. My only issue is the sunroof drains leaked causing my roof liner to collapse and water to build up in the footwell. However, mechanically I’ve literally had zero issues

[@jameslloydcole8783]

The interior of this 5 series is gorgeous.

[@aadi8568]

For me the engine of choice would be the 530d, the straight 6 diesel in that is powerful and archives brilliant fuel economy

[@tubejorrit]

I was on the market for a 535i F11 but ended up with a 530d F11 LCI, M sport, led headlights, adaptive drive and rear wheel steering. It drives so good I really don't know what to get if I ever sold the car. The x-drive on the G30 540i really turns me down since the x-drive requires special tires etc.

[@kortiz3931]

@@tubejorrit what you mean special tires?

[@Conservator.]

@@tubejorrit as far as I know every 5 series (at least from the E60 onwards) needs run flat tyres.

[@tubejorrit]

@@kortiz3931 dot star tires, they are sold per 4 because of the x-drive the diameter of the tires cant deviate to much or else the gears/clutch in the transferbox wear out. So normally if you have a flat tire you replace the tire + the one on the same axle, with x-drive you have to change all 4.

[@kortiz3931]

@@tubejorrit So, you mean that not really special tires but any suitable, except for you habe to change all 4 in case of flat tire? Dont think many people do that, in Russia we have about 80% cars sold with Xdrive, but Ive never heard anyone doing so.

[@gerrywatson261]

Thank God! James your reviews are like a breath of fresh air! No bs, no trying to destroy the cars tyres doing donuts and no ego trips! Keep up the professional journalism. In the meantime I will continue driving my E39 Msport touring till it dies😂

[@Corvolet5]

Also the best looking car in its segment. The G30 is truly one of the prettier cars in the BMW lineup

[@SDK2006b]

I had a Golf R Estate and thought that was the perfect family car. Then I got a G31 530d and that took the prize.

[@darkchild130]

I own a Z4 coupe because of this channel. BMWs of a certain age really are special

[@mc4130]

Lovely car - although I’m biased. I have a pre-GPF 540i Touring in almost exactly the same spec, HUD, soft close, comfort access, B&W, 4-zone, but I have the std suspension, and most importantly the MPPSK pack, adding a lighter flywheel, engine tune and sports exhaust. Transforms it and the engine breathes and changes gear as intended (pre-GPF). You’re welcome to have a go.

[@lanehogger1532]

Just bought a 2019 520 msport touring with idrive 7. Absolutely love it as a 30000 mile a year workhorse. I’ve come from driving humble 1.6tdi Focus’s and Leon’s so to me this is fantastic 😊

[@YourTechGerman]

I'm 30, no kids and I'm till looking at this or the 550i because I just love the luxury paired with the effortless power

[@chriserz94]

I have the older brother of this machine a 2008 535XiT/6MT M-Sport, I can tell you it's a great recipe for a car even if its over decade older.

[@noobymcnoobs]

I loved my G30 520d it may have had the base of gone but I got carried away with the optional extras and it was a fantastic car when specked up properly. Probably the 2nd best family car I have ever had after my Jaguar XJ x351

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Love the interior of the car. It is a shame this car was never sold in my part of the world. I’d love to own one to use on weekends to visit my brother who lived in the country side. Very nice review. Keep up the good work.

[@tommyallen8072]

Absolutely beautiful interior. The difference between the nappa and merino leather is huge. It makes these cars feel almost rolls royce like inside.

[@RussellMiddleton]

If it's primarily a cruiser I'd have the diesel. Wish we got these in the US - they've even stopped importing the 3 series wagon. I'm running a 328d Sportwagen with every option checked (even adaptive cruise). Perfect road trip car.

[@NH00531]

I’m on my third 530d M Sport (F11 x 2 now a G31), first two from new and the latest bought at 9 months old. If doing serious daily mileage it still has to be the diesel for me, I get 42 mpg as a combined. Looked at the E class before but just no comparison dynamically and also I think the E class Merc still has the ‘old person’ image.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

For me, I would buy the one with the engine I enjoyed the most, be it diesel or petrol, and not be so concerned about economy. The amount you spend on fuel each year on a car at this price point is a very small factor in your cost of ownership - unless as you say, you're running extremely high mileage.

[@omegasak1752]

Which one you prefer regarding driving characteristics? (steering, dynamic performance, emotional connection). I mean the F11 or the G31?

[@NH00531]

@@omegasak1752 I’m no Chris Harris so can only say that I think the F11 you could throw about a bit more than the current one! I only really have three criteria, enough oomph when needed, economic enough to not bankrupt me doing 20K per year and able to act as a people carrier/DIY van/daily commute machine/general workhorse.

[@omegasak1752]

@@NH00531 thanks for your answer! I drove to test the G31 540i and it felt numb, dangerously numb in a way I had no clue what the car is doing, very much isolated. I also drove to test the F11 535D and it felt more tamed, like I could control it more and know the response of the car. I though I'd ask, as maybe the petrol vs diesel was messing with my impression. Thanks!

[@mc4130]

@@omegasak1752 I’ve had both. Both massively capable, and actually, I really miss the F11 diesel. Suits the character of the car better IMO. 540i is quicker all over, and accelerates like crazy, but all at higher revs which gives it the ‘on the toes/lighter’ feeling (as well as higher fuel consumption!), vs the 535d which is just like a massive pendulum and unassuming in its delivery. F11 definitely feels faster as it punches you in the kidneys in 8th like a heavyweight, as opposed to whipcracking you in the face on kickdown like a featherweight… the F11 is also heavy beast too vs G31 which makes it feel more solid and planted, but again, that’s also due to rev range. Emotionally and sound wise, the straight six B58 in the G31 is amazing.

[@trevorleggo1777]

Like you James, I have had far more beemers than anything else. I also have not found too many models of recent years to interest me. Currently running a 2014, 320 Touring. Taken from my dear wife after 80K klms. Lovely chassis, brisk enough. I long the experience of a Manual 525iM E34 Touring I ran some years ago. . a rare car but a real quick, pleasurable/practical jigger. The 540i T is also something I think should be a good buy, you do choose an interesting, thought-provoking selection. Thanks, keep up the good work.

[@PixelVogue]

I've always love BMWs with the saddle brown interior, always looks far better than the average black.

[@nickw1322]

This generation is BMWs best all round model, possibly the best everyday car as well in 530d guise!

[@AJay88798]

I drive this car everyday and i fu****g love it, awesome car !

[@BabakAhoorazaad]

When the time came to change my car i was considering this one but wasn’t really sure about it. Thanks to your video now i own one and i couldn’t be happier!

[@talbotdorr682]

Man this guys channel and reviews are fantastic. Idk why he isn’t bigger on KZbin

[@md-detailing]

The Current 5 Series is reallr refined,lovely interior and exterioes especially the emgine and in estate form:D Great video Jay!

[@harrymc523]

I have a 530d touring (2wd for the occasional roundabout fun), and its the first car ive owned that ive loved more and more the longer ive owned it. Id argue its probably the best daily under 100k.

[@waldo795]

This content is awesome - you could put this into an episode of Top Gear and it would just work. Bravo sir!

[@peterwatson9047]

I drove a 2019 G30 520d saloon, m sport trim and rear wheel drive, for a month as a courtesy car (when my 2 series had it's turbo replaced under warranty) with a nice B road commute (Wantage to Newbury) was surprised how good the combination of ride on bumpy roads and composure and balance through corners was, although I didn't feel quite so well connected with the car. Made it seem faster than the power train spec sheet because it could maintain momentum really well. Safe overtaking was still an option where necessary. It was on 18's with passive suspension and didn't seem to have any options ticked - the black Dakota interior was fine but nothing on the one in this video. Anyhow after this and a recent test drive in a G21 330d rear drive with msport diff and adaptive suspension I'm left thinking perhaps with the extra weight and systems of the faster 6 cylinder models trade being well-resolved for a more satisfying engine. So my unpopular opinion (based on driving two cars) is perhaps the 20d models are the ones to have 😁

[@lukegodfrey9391]

I’ve had my G30 540i for around 12 months now after trading in my FK8 type R. I was after a touring but couldn’t find a nearby new one with the spec I wanted. Loving it, and I agree with the praise with the B58, it’s the perfect engine for a 5 series. Unless your paranoid about fuel economy I don’t understand why anyone would want a diesel. My only real gripe with it being it’s a touch refined for what it is. I understand it’s not an M car but you can hardly hear that glorious 6 cyl howl and the exhaust is completely silent from the drivers seat. Probably due to more sound proofing in the 5 series compared to the 2 or 3.

[@supersurfer1]

You obviously haven’t driven a big BMW or Audi diesel

[@gixxr88]

620nm with amazing fuel economy would be the answer as to why you'd want the diesel version! Interesting that you're coming from an FK8, how do you compare the both

[@lukegodfrey9391]

@@gixxr88 Their characteristics are polar opposites to be honest. The FK8 was all about its handling, which was ridiculous on PS4’s. very rarely had to dab the brakes and could go into unknown corners uncomfortably fast and it didn’t faze it at all. This G30 with a B58 has a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde personality when you switch it between comfort and sport plus. The 540i feels quick cause of the torque, but feels unsettled and very heavy in corners. You can’t throw this around a B road easily. You’ve really got to settle the suspension before a quick corner.

[@pcpedroariel]

@@lukegodfrey9391 but here is the thing a 540i G30 given the right settings can handle like a champ. Just switch it to Sport Plus when cornering and all is good. The Type R will always be a Handful to drive.

[@lukegodfrey9391]

I’m not really sure why sports plus would make it handle any better, it has no affect on the suspension or the handling. It’s just a big heavy 4wd car, it was never designed to be a sports car. The FK8 was definitely not a handful to drive, cold damp roads on cold tyres perhaps. It felt similar to a lotus evora in that you could properly take the piss in the corners and it never seemed to upset it.

[@davidarter6271]

Excellent review, James. This is a superb car and an excellent Grand Tourer. Thankyou

[@barfmeister8509]

Great looking car with a beautiful interior 👌

[@benpenagonzales6014]

I had a fully loaded f10 520d msport plus. With roof box it did everything. If this had the 2 extra kiddie seats I'd have this. It doesn't so I have an X5. Still brilliant, save I want the self driving tech.

[@teryd5672n]

I have the 530d and like the combination of performance, size and economy. Great on long runs with over 700 miles between fill ups.

[@GamerGabbar]

Hey Jay, I saw your review and just got me self a 540i touring as a daily while I'm building my C7 S6

[@brianiswrong]

540i X drive tourer and the word humble is a sentence not often heard.

[@elisorrells5314]

Europe produces some beautiful station wagons. Wish we got them here

[@Birmingham_racing]

I want the 550i get rid of the badges and it would be a proper sleeper

[@afdzalreza3508]

One of the best car I have ever driven.

[@Kelveron]

Driven a good friend's 2017 530i (saloon though, not Touring) more than a few times and it's a beautiful car to be in and to drive. Built like a Swiss bank vault, ride is lovely and for a fairly big old barge handles so deftly. I know BMW get a lot of slagging off these days (esp online), but they don't half still make some excellent motors.

[@papa_pt]

handling is great for the size but car feels so damn sterile. Felt more like my old Lexus GS than any of my old 5 series bc there's near zero steering feedback 😐

[@Kelveron]

@@papa_pt True, the electric steering isn't as feelsome as the old hydraulic system. That said, I found 530i's steering to be well weighed and it tracks accurately. More importantly (at least to me), the car's chassis is well balanced and pretty sharp given its size. To me, unless I'm driving a sports car, lack of ultimate steering feel isn't that big an issue, esp. on a large exec saloon.

[@papa_pt]

@@Kelveron they track accurately (like a video game) but miss that return to center feel. That's the thing though. This is a midsize sports sedan and steering was one of the biggest reasons to go with a BMW back in the day, from 3 series all the way to the 7 which remained very engaging. Merc, Lexus and Audi were there if you wanted a more laid back experience but it seems like BMW diluted themselves to try and capture some of that market. It's why I'd never trade it my e61 which is a hoot and still very comfortable on long trips

[@colinward1007]

Great review. I've got the saloon model - brilliant cruising car and probably the most comfortable car I've owned in years!

[@Taylor40667]

Mate lent me his lci 530d touring. To me the 530d is the one to go for lots of torque 50 mpg perfect daily

[@Will_M600]

If they still do a 35d I'd say go for that, drove a 335d xdrive for a bit and it was genuinely amazing

[@DDLNX]

I've had three 535d estates and they were awesome. Pity that engines no longer available. Hence we have an X5 40d

[@Fhrivneoauf]

It is a thumping good lump in that one

[@DavidEverson77]

@@DDLNX nothing wrong with a G31 530d.

[@mehranallybaccus7375]

@@Will_M600 I've got an E61 535d and it really it the ultimate utility vehicle

[@thomashogan1985]

Saturday morning, Fresh coffee and a new JE vid. Happy days

[@JasperM1972]

The sunglasses/HUD issue only occurs with polarised lenses. Switched to non-polarised for this very reason and now it works just fine. K

[@stefancupovic4824]

Touring 540 yes it is the best real world bmw at the moment.

[@veemacks7255]

I doubt James will see this but for anyone that does ... Heads Up Displays are compatible with regular sunglasses. It's the polarised ones that are a problem. They're never a good idea for driving. You can see issues with glass and in-car screens sometimes looking weird

[@seigma5340]

Honestly speaking, the only BMWs I'd consider buying from the current offer are the 330i and the 540i, simple and plain rwd sedans/wagons without controversial styling that do not pretend to be something else through stupid M badges

[@mrpuckles8704]

Hi Jay, just picking up on something you said. You can buy a non M 8 cylinder. the m550i is available in the uk. it was made so when this generation of 5 series received its facelift

[@wezzla]

550i is unfortunately not available as touring.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

That will explain my confusion

[@timprice5]

These are a serious bargain right now. An equivalent E Class E43 or E53 is £10K more. Personally i would struggle getting late 20s MPG, the 530d (whilst diesel is unpopular it is still current) makes much more sense and a bag of torque where you will likely use it most. Again the 530d is good value against its 6 cylinder Merc option, the E350d/E400d particularly if you want one of the newer OM656 straight six diesels rather than the old OM642 V6 which is getting on a bit. If you were buying a cooking 5 series though, i would struggle to look past the E class value as an E220d is better specced in general particularly with Premium/Plus packs. They give the merc a lot of kit as standard which is hard to find as an option on the used market in the BMW

[@Brickhazard]

I would hardly call 25 grand for a 6 year old 5 series a bargain. Used car market is totally messed up at the moment.

[@smwatson1512]

So many poverty-spec BMWs on the secondhand market.

[@elisorrells5314]

@@smwatson1512 Europeans(particularly brits) seem to be very obsessed with badge snobbery, not saying it’s not present elsewhere. But I’ll never understand buying a base BMW that’s less powerful and worse equipped than a cheaper or equivalent Mazda or Ford

[@trihardcx6743]

The E-Class equivalent of the 540i is the E400/450, not the E43/53. That competes with the M550i.

[@timprice5]

@@trihardcx6743 True but in the UK you can't buy the E450 particularly in estate form so it has to be the E43/E53 if you want 6 cylinder petrol

[@velvetjones1856]

540xi probably best built BMW in line.5 series has plenty of room for average sized guy. 6 cylinder better than the V8.

[@AreaCode865]

Great review. I love the new G series. I have an f11 535d which is doing around 42mpg average. With a stage 2+ map, it has 430hp and 830Nm of torque, so although I’d like the new interior and G series chassis, I’ll be keeping it for the time being. I have 18” alloys with Michelin cross climate+ and despite being rwd, it feels sure footed year round. Only 245 section rear tyres but they handle the torque without difficulty

[@dgracer1]

Really enjoyed that video. I have a G30 520d, I love it. It’s an M-Spec car and has covered over 25,000 miles in 15 months. It averages 48mpg and I’ve gotten 54mpg from it on a few long runs. It’s an everyday car that ticks a lot of boxes. I’ve driven the same model M5 and in my opinion it does add more to the whole thing. The spec is fantastic, it has the theatre, it’s understated (which I love) and on a tight road behind traffic it can get in front of said traffic with great ease. I am biased though, I love BMW’s. Really enjoyed your review though…👏

[@MG-Alexandrovich]

I really felt xdrive intervention taking corners in my 18 540 xdrive. I also have 21 x3 30 xdrive and it’s behavior is much better.

[@WarHammer1911A1]

Wish we still got the Touring models in North America. I have an E46 Touring, and a E61 Touring.

[@allosaurusfragilis7782]

I've never owned a BMW despite my history of about 50 cars. I've hired them abroad on multiple occasions and always found them great to drive and sit in. I've concluded it must be the image. Me stepping out of one locally just doesn't feel right. It's not me, somehow. I like cars these days that don't draw attention or envy . I don't like showing off any more. Definitely used to...motorbikes, speedboats etc. But now I'm old it doesn't sit right. I'm talking about the fancier models. One like this would be ideal for us. Oh, and I can't afford a decent one, did I mention that lol

[@ApothecaryTerry]

I've not had 50 cars, but the image is definitely part of what's stopped me. Saying "I drive a BMW" isn't something that I'd feel proud of. Too many of the stereotypes fit, they're everywhere and the fact most people just assume German cars are great (many are, many aren't) just winds me up. I kind of like having a car that makes people ask questions, something interesting. The fact the customer service I've had from their dealers when trying to get test drives has been nonexistent at best doesn't help. All that said, while I don't really rate many of their recent cars, some of their "40i" badged models really appeal. The interesting factor is the main thing against this car I think.

[@GoldenCroc]

Dont let others dictate what you drive, even indirectly.

[@GoldenCroc]

@@ApothecaryTerry I have driven mostly BMWs more many years now. Personally, I couldnt care less if the devil himself drove them. For me, life is too short to worry about such things. The fact that their reliability is a bit crap is a much larger consideration for me.

[@ApothecaryTerry]

​@@GoldenCroc It's not about who else drives them, it's just that some cars start positive conversations, others don't. I bought a Porsche in 2020. For those 18 months I've averaged roughly 50 miles for each person shouting "nice car" or just staring. Everyone I've known has either said "how did you afford that" or "wow" when they first saw it. Having those reactions adds a lot of positive experience to owning a nice car. This is relevant because most BMWs don't get that- a 2002, M1, Z8 or whatever would but those are rare exceptions. For almost any recent BMW though, the reaction from most people is either an indicator joke, indifference or ignorance in form of "oh it's German so it's good". At least 99% of people wouldn't know an M5 from a 520d. Those probably don't bother you, but there is a large amount of enjoyment that can be had from a car which isn't there. For anyone who hasn't had it, it's easy not to care and that's fine...but if you've had that experience then you'll know that no matter how little you care about the opinions of others, it's still great to get all that.

[@GoldenCroc]

@@ApothecaryTerry I live in a country where threats of torture wouldnt make people speak to eachother unprompted. Doesnt matter what kind of car you have, just about no one outside of a car show will comment on it. So, basing your buying on this is a bit of an alien concept to me. Anyways, most people that shuns brands are more concerned about what the appearance of a brand is, not the conversational aspect. Good for you if thats a big part of your enjoyment, personally I think I wouldnt find those conversations interesting. Cheers.

[@LouisEguchiWale]

My 520d touring I had of this generation was the best car I ever ever had a 40i version would be great

[@trihardcx6743]

A 2018 non-OPF 540i with the MPPSK would be mega.

[@bbpleg]

Just bought myself a g31 530d…. It’s got all the goodies and I absolutely love it! Good looking, fast enough, comfy, practical… a perfect daily :)

[@heroinwaltz5267]

Did you go for xdrive or rwd? Looking for one myself and really struggling to find any xdrive in the region of £26K.

[@bbpleg]

@@heroinwaltz5267 I live in Norway, so theres only xdrive vehicles to choose from...

[@robi4387]

A BMW that doesn't switch off when you take the key and press lock. Reminds me of my e66 before it was fixed something I had wish I could forget completely.

[@liamtree1250]

that is a stunning car that interior is soo good

[@weeevilswine]

If you’re ever In Scotland and my e60 535d is working you’re welcome to drive it

[@martinhankin422]

Got to press button twice to completely turn car off , in theory uve actually left the car switched on !

[@iankamuri9090]

That is a really good looking car.👌

[@rupertmiller4718]

Its really quite hard to think of an estate car that costs around £60,000 or more new and gets to 60 in under 5 seconds as humble. Ok estate cars are generally work horses and not going to get your viewing figures fizzing like a Lambo or Ferrari but to the man in the street a 540 is anything but humble. I currently drive a humble BMW; an ageing E61 520d it really isn't exciting but it does its job so well and has done for the 13 years I have owned it. I get where you are coming from though, its my 4th BMW; the previous three being coupes, a 3.0CSI a 328 and a 330 sport and all were epic. Reliable, fun to drive, perfectly capable as daily drivers and of high mileage. Big engined BMWs make a lot of sense. On the other hand Ferraris and Lambos only make sense if you are lucky enough to get a well looked after one and limit your driving to fine days every once in a while. Its also rare to find a Ferrari, Lambo, Maserati that's as well built as a BMW or Mercedes.

[@BigUriel]

I think it's clear Jay is posh. Maybe he doesn't always dress or talk like it but when you hear him talk about the cars his family and friends have it's pretty clear they're all pretty well off.

[@GoldenCroc]

@@BigUriel Yep, its all a matter of perspective.

[@rupertmiller4718]

@@BigUriel That has always been obvious, his accent, speech patterns and grammer give that away in minutes. He doesn't drop his Hs or use the haitch sound etc.

[@goose4150]

Lovely great daily ride. I want one

[@OnlineHousehusband]

It's like watching a young Jeremy Clarkson. The way you present is very similar 😂....great review btw 👍

[@Krebs61]

Have this car for some time now. No plan to sell it. Just going to buy another car to have for just in case

[@sfletcher83]

I had a carbon black 440i GC a few years ago and definitely agree on the paint - it was absolutely gorgeous. Just a nightmare to maintain 😔

[@philpeters531]

I'm looking at one of those at the moment, what issues did you have with it?

[@TimFoster]

(Unpopular opinion?) Frequently, BMW estates are the better looking models than other body shapes in the range. My e46 touring, and current (lowly, but absolutely all-that-I-need 520d xdrive msport) g31 are both great-looking cars. Eagerly anticipating a properly-electric touring 5er.

[@john-vy1ml]

You nailed this review. I think it applies to most newer bmw cars. The dampers and suspension dont give u that confidence like the older bmw does. I know they are much faster but they dont have that sharp feeling anymore. Ps. I haven't driven the m cars.

[@jimj2683]

The m cars are pretty much exactly the same. The only difference is the tuning of dampers, springs, engine, wheels etc.

[@Captain_Scarlet_SIG]

Estates so much more load space,practicality & looks than the present obsession with the swamped SUV clone market it’s a shame manufacturers are gonna fade estates out. Never take any Xdrive model off the hard standing unless you wanna tow it out. Lovely interior in this one.

[@GoldenCroc]

People just love their SUVs so its not like the manufacturers have a choice. But yeah.

[@rosserrington3315]

Top job. I have a 67 plate version with adaptive suspension. Superb, so much better to drive then my previous V8 6 series and XK Jag before that.

[@i.s.3458]

650i?

[@rosserrington3315]

@@i.s.3458 correct, a 650i

[@alexluke84]

Interior is top notch 😍

[@thetezz0001]

Great video bro and great car

[@dustinyork9641]

Best reviewer on YT.

[@maxmoughal5183]

Stunning and just my kind of thing now, probably should have put Continentals on it though.

[@JohnInSale]

Best BMW in my opinion is the 640 xdrive diesel GT, sadly and stupidly BMW UK stopped offering it after the facelift, even tho it’s still produced and exported to other RHD markets It’s the perfect all round vehicle if you can only have one car 🚙👍🏻

[@badgastein2]

I almost agree with you - I’ve got the petrol 640i GT x-drive full air suspension. I’ve let BMW UK know what I think about them dropping this car in the UK….it will be replaced in my garage by a Mercedes EQS in due course.

[@badgastein2]

If you are in the market for a used 540i X drive, check out the 640iGT X drive which has basically the same B58 engine and leather interior - UK models came with a panoramic sunroof.

[@TLOU238]

I have a 2018 530i M sport and have been tempted to get a 540i.... if only my commute wasn't 150 miles......

[@TLOU238]

Don't do this commute anymore, 540i here I come lol

[@TLOU238]

Now I have a fully loaded xdrive 540i. Should have got it sooner

[@TLOU238]

Why the hell am I talking to myself here

[@benpenagonzales6014]

As much as these are brilliant, I've had one and an X5, German cars don't make you feel special like say a jag. But having that extended merino leather does really help. Wish I'd put it on mine.

[@vatrica1]

Funny that the carbon Schwartz paint is still used, as a detailer I must say that is the hardest paint to keep clean in my opinion

[@juanpablocorreiaecheverria2857]

I love the 5 Series Estate! I wish we could have it in Brazil

[@rennie7316]

The code is G31 for estate and G30 for saloon version

[@SpontaneousEvolution]

Good video, but, I just didn't get the point of comparing this 540i to an M5 or M5cs. I doubt there will ever be a buyer who is comparing one to the other, surely they are aimed at totally different places in the market.

[@mta01ajd]

I have this but as a 530d, 10 grand of extras, 600 miles to a tank, sounds good, love it. And most importantly I managed to persuade the wife!

[@MrOvershoot]

I'm slightly ambivalent about BMW's well to be honest the latest ones are mostly just gopping and trying too hard. This however is nice and subtle it can merge into the general traffic when needed but leap out past when needed. I’m an Estate (and all their other names) fan anyway.

[@vandelayofficial492]

I want one of these so badly and it's so upsetting that I can't have one here in America.

[@callummccubbing4506]

I approve greatly of your music choice at 6:58 good sir

[@davidrpriest]

They don’t have any of the touring models in the United States. I Own An X7 but it probably would’ve gone for this if it was available

[@MohammedAhmed-ow8ie]

Excellent Review as always. I just happened to be browsing the classifieds on G30's. Hopefully depreciation does it's thing lol

[@resnonverba137]

This era of 5 Series are really excellent cars, and I include the 520D. But I was most pleasantly surprised by the 6 Series GT, a car I wasn't expecting to fall for as I did.

[@Brego66]

As long as you don't have to look at it for too long 🙁

[@resnonverba137]

@@Brego66 That was my initial thought too. The looks won me over along with its practicality and dynamics.

[@heinedenmark]

The best BMW has always been the 5 series. It most of course have a straight 6. BUT.. It should of course be a wagon

[@arvidjohansson3120]

I have only driven the 520d. Main faults with that car was the engine. It was good, but not enjoyable. On my market you can get the car without xDrive which is the way to go. The car becomes a bit more sporty and cheaper to run.

[@josefgordon7712]

I've always fancied an Alpina Wagon though I'm not sure they ever did one.

[@adrianchell]

They do both 3-series and 5-series based ones.

[@vsboy2577]

The only car you ever need.

[@eze8970]

Thanks J, not sure I could live with a 'mud' interior!

[@mehranallybaccus7375]

Hi James, another excellent review, thank you. I own an E61 and the issue of the radio not turning off is to do with the proximity of the fob to the car. It should turn off eventually but the electronics in these vehicles are notoriously sketchy leading to awful battery drain issues. Also, the main wiring loom for air ride suspension, electronic tailgate, etc,... are located in the boot, where you'd expect to find the spare tyre. Pan roof vehicles badly designed so water pools in this area screwing up everything... Guess which one I've got?! I believe BMW has since moved these important looms to a better location?

[@weeevilswine]

Literally just bought my 08 535d and having to get the battery changed and some other issues sorted

[@bh4560]

I have coded that out of mine so it turns off with the engine off button. "As it should!" Hahaha

[@rjhandley556]

I’ve never been particularly interested in Beamers, 7 series and z4s excluded. Never understood why you’d buy a 5 rather than an e class or an a6. Appreciate that’s probably a very unpopular opinion! Thanks for another great video James

[@RichardEnglander]

A6 has nasty fwd and torque steer, less feel, understeer too

[@JamesWilliams1974]

For the way they drive. The f11 for me is in a different class than the alternatives.

[@Dave_dave69]

I feel like “roadster” sounds like an app for men with roadsters to meet men with other roadsters…🤣

[@RUfromthe40s]

i have some BMW's but the last i bought was the 850 in the 90's , but have around 12 more , this because i sold some years ago the 2002 tii that i had 2 from 75 ,still have a regular 2002 ,the first model a 1970 allthoug there was the 2000 from 69 ,no headrest , also a 73 alpina , the 2002 regular from 74 a 1602 from the same year ,a 1502 from 75 , a 525 from 75 also from 74 the 520 , the coupe 3.5 Cs from 74 , the 645i from 76 and a 535i from79 , i do prefer the 71 2002 in orange ,in the 90's i used to drive it and when camping i used to get scared ,because when coming from the beach i would see several kids all around the car and thinking it had been vandalised but all were only curiouse vecause being from germany they had never seen a car like that and some even asked me if it was really a BMW ,i use to point the badge that was a piece of metal with colours faded and in the bottom a curved line to meet the front curvature of the bonnet , at the time it was a crime to say to put an automatic transmition , never saw one , i did pay almost nothing for each and some when given to me , the more powerfull ones because of the gasoline comsumption anf sad to see the 600 series gone that it was till the 80's the car to have , the coupe even made buyers buy it instead of the Mercedes SEC , wich i still have one ,manual with a powerfull V8 , the reason i have them all was not related with being a fan of the brand but as i had new a white 1502 in 75 that was sold at the same time as the 315 , it had a diferent sound and quality on its building ,but liking music a very poor sound system and a central console that roten fast while nothing else was bad in the car , the ti and tii was so bad that no one wanted them i saw several stoped because no one knew how to fix it , while the mercedes 60's injection system was perfect , some guys didn't knew their cars had already electronic injection , i kept this but i saw several in perfect shape being crashed , normally the ti tii and the turbo option , i even trade one in perfect condition for a pioneer cassette deck , the CT-200 , this i sold in 2017 for 50.000€ but paid 1.000€ to be tuned , the thing that made them all survive was the top quality Bosh electronic system and their graphite cables to spark plugs where the best , some cars now they say that were good and they are rare like the Z1 , well no one bought them , i had for 3 monthes a 1.6L but that was it those up and down doors were bad , the Z8 , BMW at the time rented them cheap to run on circuits this with hardtop and excelent iron wheels , all white , trucks filled with them ,now they ask a fortune for one , who would buy it having the option of buying a 8 series with V12 engine much cheaper , i bought first the V12 but kept a V8 much reliable also manual , drivers at the time used to say that automatic was for phisical disabled people or for 80 year old men or women , where i live only recentelly people are having their first automatic and accidents happen with most of them , till the 2000's only had seen a mini from the 60's automatic from the same person a toyota corolla ( he was a veteran from the war in Africa and had reduced mobility on his arm ) also remenber somebody having a 350 SE from mercedes but was a poor person and bouvht it while working in construction in germany. I remenber the first sport car they install an automatic transmition , don't know for sure if it was a Ferrari or a Porshe , this for american market it was a scandall all over Europe was the talk of the day. why there are r.p.m counters on automatic cars ,one would be better served with a big clock as they did in the past, have you ever seen a Lotus with automatic , a F1 champion brand and still perfect cars to drive ,i only had an Europa from 72 , today i can't enter on it , one stops growing in height than starts growing for the sides but some years ago i was sick to the point of thinking i was going to leave this unperfect world but also filled with moments of pleasure when a doctor says you're ok and i asked what about the pain in all my body , he said to me you got lucky but till today no one knows what i had , onevthing came iut good from it ,i could dress my old jeans and drove my lotus but after 10 years i'm again large or strong and the lotus is stoped , regards

[@RUfromthe40s]

the modern ones are not real BMW's are what i call autopilot cars , you don't drive them ,you only steer like 5 year old kid cars, its also dangerous one might think he's a good driver wich is an ilusion because those systems fail and that's when we see them destroyd on the side of the road wich happens a lot , its sad to see young men dead because of this new wave of cars, be safe.

[@gabrielcaramet3238]

I would go for the 550d touring