2022 BMW 5 Series in-depth review - is the hybrid 530e the best PHEV? | What Car?

The BMW 5 Series is a fantastic luxury car - and it's just had a facelift to make it even better. In this review, we run through the new changes, and test the updated plug-in hybrid 530e to see if it's the best PHEV you can buy.
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[@colinc.8742]

Having driven dozens of cars in my 60 years of driving, this is the nearest thing to driving perfection.

[@BullyBoxer]

its smooth but the 4 cylinder engine sound harsh , I have 2023 car here.

[@philipmcrae1152]

I’ve switched to a 2017 520D after owning five 3 Series wow what a car.......large yes but it doesn’t drive that way. Mine has only done 18,000 miles and has adaptive.......I simply love this car.

[@GarryMcGovern]

I'm not a Beemer fan, but to retain that control wheel in the centre console is a master lesson that all other manufacturers should take note of. Being able to pretty much control everything with one hand - without having to even lift your arm off the arm-rest or barely your eyes off the road - is how it should be done. This touchscreen nonsense forcing you to take your eyes off the road, and shuffle about into stupid sub-menus, is such a regressive step and is unbelievably annoying. Technology should be there to make things easier - not to just look 'cool' for the simple sake of it. It's only 'cool' if it works - and not having to even lift your arm up, beats ANY touchscreen, any time.

[@paddymuppy]

Yes..I have the pre-facelift and it's fantastic.

[@Horizon301.]

I agree. We have the dual screen set up on the Audis and irs awful for the most part. It works and is cool but we know it’s not practical and much preferred that seen in the BMW’s. Even on the 7 with more touch aspects, they fully think of these things with indents and clear markers of what you are pushing. Sadly VW Group is going further with removing buttons

[@easyaussietarget3355]

Have to agree, I have it in an older 2016 Audi and I love it. Newer models did away with it.

[@ridge9246]

You're getting better with each review. I just wish the videos were longer

[@iliascohen]

Ever since I got my own piece, I got a problem too: I can't get enough of BMWs....

[@NeilMagill]

Superb review, well detailed and the content has clearly been thought about.

[@user-gw5rs7fp9j]

So handsome! Terrified of those other grilles.

[@resnonverba137]

Good review and nice to see the 520d getting some praise. Anyone put off by the low bhp figure should try one if they're in the market for this sort of car. They punch above what the figures would suggest and are excellent all-rounders.

[@richb326]

Got my 530e M-Sport just over a week ago. Love it already

[@borissavov]

Which year model is yours? Mine is 2018 530e M-Sport, purchased and driven since the summer of 2017. So far very happy, but I have a thought to upgrade with the latest.

[@richb326]

@@borissavov mine is brand new 2021 model, Alpine white, M-Sport Pro pack and 20” wheels

[@Radiation580]

I love 5 series

[@samf492]

We’ve just ordered a new 530d with the M pro pack in alpine white. What are your thoughts of the 20” wheels do they change the ride comfort?

[@GhostPrime21]

Now install a m5 kit on it :)

[@ukcarver]

Great review. Some people are saying it’s boring and needs to become more updated but some of us just love a more tradition take, and I think bmw have got this right.

[@tiagooliveirafranca4896]

Brilliant review. I got mine, a week ago. I’m super happy 👍🏻

[@ChrisFtype87]

Good review! Love this car.

[@paulgibbsblueskies]

Good review with all the things I need to know.

[@breadbuttrjam1604]

How did you find a proper Right Hand Steering model? There are no RHS models in the BMW website...

[@sergioramirez6255]

I had my 530e for a month now and I love it!

[@sukmangat]

Great review, I bought a 2018 Msport D model with 20 inch wheels but no adaptive suspension so the ride is a bit stiff however the car itself is amazing!

[@rg6982]

This is by far the best looking car in the BMW current line up The 8 series grand coupe isn't far off

[@MariuszCars]

Cool video. Well done. I owned 5 series some time ago. Sold when car was 17yo 😂 but for quality and driving experience I couldn’t complain 😎

[@CarsofGlasgow]

Great video and what a lovely car! I recently picked up a 2020 520d touring and it is great

[@CarsofGlasgow]

@@Danrw44 thanks, if you fancy seeing it I made a video of it on my channel :)

[@TheophilusPWildbeest]

35 miles electric range is only achievable rolling steadily along a straight country road, I did it in my 330e and got 34, but in normal commuting it's 20 ish, and only 18 in winter with everything switched on. That being said I still get 125 mpg overall by plugging it in every night so that 75% of my miles are electric.

[@borissavov]

Totally agree and my 2018 530e ratio gas/electricity is about the same. My work is 15km from home and it is charged to both sites.

[@jmchughx]

Do you have an issue with the bootspace? Seems a bit on the small side...

[@TheophilusPWildbeest]

@@jmchughx It is small, but ok for me, I don't use it much.

[@MadelnMachines]

I was thinking who could really be bothered to charge their car every night. It would much prefer something I could charge once a week and have it do about 100-150 miles. How long does it take to charge the 330e?

[@TheophilusPWildbeest]

@@MadelnMachines It takes about 3.5 hours at home, public chargers are faster, but the reality is I plug it in at home then leave it to charge, it takes seconds to do. Next time I go out I unplug it, again seconds.

[@thakursachin]

If you want adaptive suspension (M Sport Pro Edition) but don't want run flat tyres, that's only possible with the hybrid versions. I couldn't get that with 530d.

[@Stempi89]

Love the headlights!

[@newbeginnings8566]

Looks very nice indeed in that colour/trim/wheels..

[@mattltvtoyreviews1955]

Great review, as always. 👍 Look forward to the next one.

[@vibemkt1]

Superb review. Bought my M 2 years and agree 100% with review. My 5th BMW and my best. My next car will be the latest model

[@sambam007]

hybrids still make more sense than full electric in countries that do not have a large fast charging infrastructure yet and will be the only car you have. Or when battery tech lighter , higher capacity and cheaper to produce at scale. Oh a sub 5 min charging time from 0-100%

[@stumotors]

Currently in the market for a petrol hybrid, is this the best option to go for??

[@novainvicta]

I can second the 520d. I took delivery of the LCI 520d SE in early January after having the previous version. I opted for the SE with standard 17" wheels because I have a bad back. The only thing I wish was still an option is the variable damper control which I had on my previous car and does give a better ride quality than standard dampers. The fit & finish is really good and great to drive. Word of warning though split folding rear seats are not standard you have to pay a further £ 395.00. The boot has electronic release but electronic closing is extra & part of an expensive pack. Frankly why anyone would want anything but the 520d or the 530e if your a company car driver is beyond me. Dealers push the M-Sport models which have a harsher ride with their bigger wheels but only the M-Sport Plus models are you able to select variable dampers but with 19" / 20" wheels your destroying the best reason for having it a compliant ride.

[@Horizon301.]

It doesn’t make that much of a difference as they aren’t fitting 20 inches with the M Sport models. And even then, the 7 series gets 19’s and rides without issues. It’s the suspension that can be more of an issue on S Line vehicles and M Sport I assume. With Audi you can still request the standard suspension though. M Sport is best for the aesthetics, people aren’t buying it for the more uncomfortable ride. Even the 7 series SE is very tame and in my view not worth havving unless it’s M-Sport. I guess it’s a difference of opinion really.

[@paultaylor9652]

Lovely Jubbly review

[@NoNameSkejter]

how's the comfort on these 20 inch wheels?

[@Evil.Turkey]

It’s like the best car E V E R and the most handsome BMW in a long time ❤

[@izemanevobike]

Interesting how packages differ from other countries like Austria, or Germany. Standard here is something completely differnt than what you see ;)

[@jamiep61]

I enjoyed watching the Video Review. One of the best Executive Cars on sale

[@rg6982]

Spot on

[@fahadmudassar426]

How much mileage does it give on hybrid?

[@user-ss4dn9ue5g]

is it bluestone color？

[@kamlall9722]

Great review. Actually the bmw 5 series and Audi A6 have the same size boot of 530 litres. The Mercedes E classes boot is only 10 litres bigger.

[@MrStateofplay]

Best car I have owned in my lifetime.

[@maJor_mowLLy]

Make video of air suspension 530e please sir 🥺

[@r-guditeamworks5319]

Gd review bro 👍

[@YourTechGerman]

I can't wait for these to depreciate and get myself a nice used one :p

[@JuanPS1971]

This is definitely going to be my next choice when I exhaust my 2014 520d

[@XiaoBi826]

Anyone can tell me why this version of 530e’s front light looks different from the 530i launched even earlier? Is the front light specially for plug-in model ?

[@WiseMammoth]

It's depends on modification.. auto light,or just chep led BMW

[@888CBK]

Nice clip! What's the official name of the exterior color?

[@user-vh3cx6xy3i]

BMW is one of the major car brands that I still like due to there sleek modern looks but still keeping traditional functions like having physical buttons etc. Mercedes have let us down big time.

[@btkt6464]

What color is this?

[@Knorxkay]

how much does the slightly used 530e cost.?

[@dmfamzo]

03:01 "Isn't it great to see a manufacturer update its interior but not make things worse?!, like making everything touchscreen and removing physical controls!" *Audi* : I have no idea what he is talking about!! 🙄😓

[@mb5893]

If you drive the new ifour there are very few buttons physical buttons that you touch to make changes such as radio and navigation.

[@omrgmotors6644]

Nice review. 👌🏼

[@santana9537]

Such a beautiful machine 😍😍😍

[@MrChirasin]

What does a "step on" mean at around the 3:30 mark? Does that mean it's better build quality than the E class?

[@Esq.bright]

I believe it means a 'step above' in class and quality.

[@PerpetualTiredness]

How come you never mention insurance groups and prices? It's important to know before buying.

[@Horizon301.]

Do groups even matter? Insurance is the same for most cars nowadays. The 7 series for example doesn’t cost anymore to insure than the 5 in some cases or it’s a very minor increase. It all depends on your insurance company, yourself and the area etc. unless it’s a Range Rover, I wouldn’t see a need to mention this on reviews

[@simonmontoni5355]

when I see car videos with the steering wheel in the right side is like to see watch reviews and the reviewer is left hand

[@walterjiani9229]

If I am looking for a fuel efficient + Moderate Luxury + Less Maintenance which would be the best in 5 Series?

[@mb5893]

530e

[@BHBeckenbauer]

Looks really sharp!

[@superengine9847]

Undoubtedly, it's a great Car.😍

[@jefferyfeng1778]

the head lights are actually different in UK to anywhere else

[@temidayomajekodunmi3242]

Nah it’s the same. Just differently specd. If you get the upgrades you get the visibility lights. It’s standard on the 550.

[@limpunsing224]

Ace video review

[@DJIDroneTravel]

Amazing car

[@nordic1121]

I purchased a 530e recently ,used but only a couple of years old I looked at other cars but settled on the 530e, my commute is 12 miles all round so running costs will be low and you could argue it’s a bit of a waste to own such a car for that mileage but it’s such a brilliant vehicle my family love it bags of space and comfort.

[@abdullahmunawar2720]

Do u happen to know the mpg ?

[@nordic1121]

@@abdullahmunawar2720 on the petrol side , mid twenties around town and just over thirty on the motorway. The electric will give you 28 miles from a full charge.

[@richarddastardly6845]

I want a 520d

[@Darthadios]

At here the basic model costs more than the M-sport in Great Britain.

[@newbeginnings8566]

You need to where 'here' is for your statement to have interest...

[@JD-eq4dp]

Could very well be the case but I'll stick to the 530d.

[@roconnor01]

Will it last 500,000 miles like a Toyota Camry?

[@miketaylor1916]

The SE 530e rides soooo much better than the M sports harsh ride.

[@Asmoharg]

I really really hate those carmakers whose idea of an infotainment system is an iPad slapped on top of the dashboard. No thank you - I have just ordered a Mercedes E300 e

[@andriusverbickas1010]

Your sitting postion is way to close to the wheel thats why theres so much space in the back, no way anyone drives with their hands bended like that. :)

[@toyotaprius79]

But is it actually good with petrol economy? We really have to categorize different kinds of hybrids. Mild "hybrids", parallel single motor hybrids, series generator hybrids, and of course the arguably superior series/parallel hybrids from -Toyota- The Prius. 6:20 Very stupid and self defeating too for the emissions. The economy loss (pollution caused) is only minimized when going at a higher speed of 50 - 70 mph where internal combustion engines traditionally performed best.

[@PerpetualTiredness]

Can you leave the statistics on screen for longer so we can read them without pausing the video?

[@lucassitanggang5154]

E Drive, EQ, E-Tron: competitive

[@Chris-jt4ux]

Uh not quite.

[@tanushko]

When are you reviewing the 5 series 545e? Please do! That should be a proper car with a proper engine.

[@mb5893]

In Europe only.

[@Undisputed_King]

That gear stick in the center needs to go

[@kaiole4244]

what color is this?

[@k.w.a.5111]

Yes, what color is this?

[@oceanthirteen1628]

Enlarged 3er

[@trabali5168]

no cd player?

[@Chris-jt4ux]

Yes, CD player is there

[@siddharoodhbiradar2026]

Does it also use petrol or run only by charging? I'm not getting the point🤔

[@Chris-jt4ux]

It's a hybrid......

[@835I]

🤔Is it a good idea to replace the middle class car ( 40 000 ) with an upper middle class ( 50 000 ) one to the car? There may often be an idea that more expensive is immediately better, but is that so? 🤔 Or will there be a better mind when the car costs more? 😐 I looked at the features on different websites : BMW 5 Series (vs BMW 3 Series): + Blind Spot Monitor As standard, the interior is the same size - less horsepower & less torque in the engine - more weight - worse fuel consumption - lower trunk volume (14 ft³ vs 17 ft³) - worse turning diameter (39.4 ft vs 37.4 ft) - price difference ~ 13000 (= if I owned a BMW 320, I wouldn't exchange it for a BMW 5 Series car) (more need to get things in the BMW 5 serie, the price difference is not yet covered by those things)

[@emeraldarcher4258]

It really needs more leg room.

[@GodKing804]

Don't you mean adaptive LASER lights? Not LED???

[@dennisstrimple6624]

In the US the laser lights don’t come with the e.

[@GodKing804]

@@dennisstrimple6624 cool, this isn't a US car

[@WiseMammoth]

good day everyone, I want to express my only correct opinion, this car can surprise only those people who drove cars before 2005, let's say E60, skipped the F10 series and bought a G30 body, they will be very surprised, But for everyone else who drove more or less fresh ones the cars are three years old, nothing new, you won’t see all the modern cars of the same class, both Audi and Mercedes are approximately the same in dynamics and in multimedia and in everything, it’s just a matter of taste whether you like it or not, but any modern Chinese car will tear any European car to shreds and an American car in all respects and this is a fact; conclusion, if you like it visually, you can take it if you don’t like it; we take what everyone likes; road safety

[@0farmerjohn0]

The latest BMWs are designed by the finance department at bmw. The engineers have all moved on to Kia, Hyundai, Geely and some I've heard moved to Mazda. We are already seeing the upgrades from Kia and Hyundai and they are fantastic! Geely is still is probably a decade away. Mazda 6 in RWD I think is a clear sign of former BMW engineers influence.

[@74aamer]

I'm going for my cs

[@kreisiboy1888]

those headlights with the DRL are a cheap option. Not the real good headlights available to 5 series

[@terryh192]

The best one is the M5 competition

[@DreamCarGarage1]

er...not sure if you were clear enough; so you think it's a good car then?

[@amelalibasic5541]

I like more 540 e::))

[@valgehiir]

Great video, and for once the host guy is as handsome as the BMW 5 series

[@resnonverba137]

Oddball.

[@flemmingsorensen5470]

And compared wirh the Volvo S90? The world is moving on; there are more choices than the three germans these days...

[@lesleyfernandez636]

A plug-in hybrid? Like my 🔌 in kettle when I want to boil water.

[@richb326]

Does your kettle have a 2.0 petrol engine?!

[@lesleyfernandez636]

@@richb326 it is turbo-charged infact.

[@miketaylor1916]

I’d like to think if your commute is 15 miles you’d consider cycling!!!

[@_bav]

You obviously live somewhere with no big hills!

[@hchishtis]

where the hell has he parked the car at the beginning

[@s23bho38]

Sorry, but this LCI still looks dated. Great review but BMW need to up their game. The interior should at the very least have mirrored the excellent 3 series.

[@novainvicta]

It looks far better in the metal

[@richb326]

@@novainvicta true. It’s all very nice and solid and doesn’t look dated

[@s23bho38]

To each their own I guess. I have owned the pre LCI version and would not be tempted to buy the LCI. Happy to wait until the next generation release.

[@paullacey2999]

Buy now before a huge grille gets nailed on it.....

[@mihnealazar7039]

@@Danrw44 I mean the new Laserlights day time running lights look like a Jaguar / Golf 7 and not a BMW at night but yeah that’s the only thing.

[@asadshaikh7860]

Flying beast fan here? 💪😝

[@Lestalad1961]

I had a previous gen 520d M Sport and moved to the G20 330e M Sport as the 3 is now more spacious than any other gen which leaves me to think that the 5 series is pretty much redundant as a model.

[@novainvicta]

Having tested both the 5 Series is way bigger inside. Has more standard equipment and only a slightly higher price.

[@Lestalad1961]

@@novainvicta way bigger? Really? I’ve given up zero rear leg room in the new 3 over my previous 5 series and I’d be interested to know what the extra standard kit is. I swapped a 520d M Sport for a new 3 M Sport and the 3 is much more loaded although I concede it is the new G20 3er.

[@dstfno]

There's a market for every model and even though the 3 series have grown the 5 series is still a bigger car that is a bit roomier inside. It maybe isn't earth shattering but gives you a luxurious feeling that the 3 series doesn't have.

[@jobsingames]

Hybrids are the Germans excuse for not producing enough EVs

[@djh29971]

I've got the 530e as a hire car and it's £55K of sheer boredom. It rides well enough, but it's a lot of money for a bit of a barge that lacks the torque of a larger engine which is what it really needs.

[@WiseMammoth]

my wife has one, if you don’t live ten kilometers from work, and you want to save on gasoline, driving on electricity at 80 km/h is an option, but on the highway on gasoline it consumes 10 liters and doesn’t go anywhere. I did a chip tuning for it, now it has 400 horses, it seems to run but eats 15 liters... a car for pensioners, although with such a small trunk it even goes to the store twice)) definitely should have taken the 530d

[@kuzmajacek]

"The electric side adds a lot to the package of a car" in a positive way when you live in a matrix and need a car to go to the office and to Tesco to buy potatoes. If car is part of your lifestyle, you use it to travel across Europe, see places, the electric side adds just unnecessary weight and makes the fuel economy worse. In such case both PHEX and EV are just a huge degradation of a quality of traditional combustion engine cars. Back to diesel for me.

[@bruintoo]

Best PHEV is the Toyota RAV4 Prime. US EPA has the 530e rated at 21 miles all electric range.

[@bh4560]

The reverse camera lets that car down. Its like a 20 year old camera system. 👎 bmw light years ahead.

[@topman3208]

Some ugly lights angel eyes best

[@David-Dumont]

GL