BMW 5 Series 2021 In-Depth Review - The Ultimate Executive Car?

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BMW's 'G30' 7th generation 5 series has changed - but not beyond recognition. The looks get sharpened, engine electrification now proliferates and a couple of extra powerplant variants join the range. Otherwise, the line-up of saloon and Touring models continues with much the same polished, Teutonic and mildly dynamic appeal as before.
Background
How do you right a bestseller? This refreshed version of the 7th generation 5 series is BMW's answer to that question when it comes to the Munich maker's uber-successful offering in the full-executive segment. Over 600,000 examples of this 'G30' series '5' have been sold since its original launch in 2016 but changes were needed, following key enhancements to its two most significant rivals. An all-new version of the Audi A6 was launched in 2018 and Mercedes substantially updated its 10th generation E-class in early 2020.
In terms of what's new here, you'll immediately spot the new 3 series-style nose. But arguably what's more important is what now lies beneath the bonnet. 48V mild hybrid tech has now been introduced to all the mainstream engines, plus there's a second, more powerful plug-in hybrid option. And a new V8 M Performance model, along with a re-fettled M5 too. Plus updated media connectivity as part of a lightly-smartened cabin. Plenty to talk about them.
Driving Experience
Thanks to a reduction in weight of about 100kg, this 7th generation 5 Series proved to be a little sharper to drive than its immediate predecessor and still feels a little more agile than its direct Audi and Mercedes rivals. Especially if you add in options like 4-wheel steering and adaptive damping. The kind of full air suspension set-up you can have on a rival Mercedes E-Class is still lacking, though there's an air suspended rear axle on the Touring estate variant. You'll want to know about engines which continue to work via an 8-speed ZF auto gearbox. All the mainstream four cylinder and six cylinder powerplants now get the Munich maker's latest 48V mild hybrid technology. Most 5 series buyers still want a diesel - there are three options again available. Things kick off with the four-cylinder 188hp 520d, which sits below a couple of six cylinder variants, the 281hp 530d and the 335hp 540d xDrive. The 520d and 530d can be had with either standard rear wheel drive or extra cost xDrive 4WD.
BMW expects petrol power to enjoy a greater take-up with this facelifted model. The mainstream part of the range uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo unit, things kicking off with a 181hp 520i. Above the 520i, xDrive 4WD is either optional or mandatory. That 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit features in more powerful 248hp form in the 530i. And in the plug-in hybrid 530e, which offers up to 288hp. If you think a 5 Series really needs a six cylinder engine and you want petrol power, the conventional option is the 329hp 540i. A 248hp version of the 540i's same 3.0-litre petrol 'six' is paired to a 107hp electric motor in a new more powerful plug-in hybrid derivative, the 545e xDrive. Finally, there are a couple of potent V8 variants, starting with a freshly-added M Performance version, the 550i xDrive, which offers 523hp from its 4.4-litre powerplant and bridges the gap to the top M5 Competition super saloon. The M5 Competition uses the same V8 engine in 625hp form.
Design and Build
One day, BMW might choose to visually differentiate this car from the style of the smaller 3 Series model that sits below it in the company's line-up, but that day hasn't come yet. This updated '5' adopts a look that brings it back into line with the 7th generation 3 Series model introduced in 2018, with a wider single-frame front grille flanked by beadier LED headlights and structured rear LED tail lamps. L-shaped daytime running lights also feature at the front and the bumpers have been re-profiled at both ends, which has increased the length of the saloon by 27mm and the Touring estate by 21mm, so that both now measure in at a fraction under 5m.
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[@mattltvtoyreviews1955]

Great review, if you're spending such a lot of money on a car this review tells you all you need to know. Brilliant.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thank you Matt, that's great to hear 👍

[@kevinfitzgerald6578]

Love your dedication on your videos, making a very comprehensive review for an hour long. Been a subscriber since 5K, hope it grows into a million one day and hopefully it happens sooner :D Love from Indonesia!

[@TheMisterB2u]

Great reviews and so comprehensive.Try autogefuhl on you tube as well,German presenter ,but good reviews!

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for being a long-time subscriber, Kevin 👍

[@simmybear31]

I've had 3 models with gesture control and can honestly say I've never had a single problem with it - for me itworks beautifully.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

That's great to hear, Simon 👍 Are you looking for a new car at the moment?

[@shriramarunachalammuthuvez1800]

Excellent and Comprehensive review, if you are going to buy a 5 series, then this video is a must watch, I found it really really useful. Gave me more information than what I got from the dealer. Best review I have seen for 5.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks for watching, Shriram! We supply every make and model in the UK and will be more than happy to get you behind the wheel of a new 5 Series. Fill-in this quick form and we'll get in touch: bit.ly/39YHCml

[@yes8032]

Oh yes it’s a beautiful executive

[@andrewwheeler8591]

Excellent yet again 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thank you Andrew, glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@mustafabilek6273]

Thank you for review :)) It is my favorite car but I like light colour interior .

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Our pleasure, Mustafa. We can get you behind the wheel of one! 👍 Get in touch here: www.osv.ltd.uk/hello-youtube/

[@mustafabilek6273]

@@OsvUkVehicleSupply Sir , I am so glad now for your answer but I'm at the outside of the uk. Respect from Turkey :))

[@Pete-wk7pf]

Would love to see a review of the 545e

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thank you for the suggestion, Pete. We'll see what we can do 👍

[@markscars1069]

The recall skills this chap has are mighty impressive. One question please. Do you know if the 545e has a function to run the engine all the time if the driver so chooses? Or does the hybrid system always have the upper hand?

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi Mark, one of our Vehicle Specialists will be more than happy to look into this for you. Feel free to get in touch here: bit.ly/39YHCml

[@SimonTolchard]

Yes, in sport mode the engine runs all the time ...

[@dipin2]

Wonderful review...........From india

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thank you, Dipin. We're glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@Tec2Nut]

ASould I sell my Audi D4 2017 for this , great car bit never took to it

[@jondoyle44]

59:48 Driver assistance features. Etc.

[@TheMisterB2u]

The strange thing about the 5 series is,that although it's a very good car ,you don't see that many on the road!Could it be the price ?

[@lechprotean]

Price and the fact that most people who could afford it, go for SUVs instead

[@biriyaniferrari165]

Brilliant review, I've never heard anyone so eloquent. You ought to go into politics! Best wishes.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Thanks Biriyani, your great feedback means a lot! Make sure to subscribe for more in-depth vehicle reviews - bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@mattwarren69]

great review ... however i thought an hour and 20 mins was rushing through a bit !!! 3 hours would been more comprehensive lol! seriously though good review . Nice car

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Sorry for cutting the review short, Matt! 😂 Thanks for watching 👍

[@kingkongq153]

리뷰 잘 봤습니다. 👍 한국에서 ...

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

감사합니다!

[@ianmowbray3284]

Why would you buy a new 550i when you can buy a two year old m5 comp for the same money. There are lots for sale in the Uk.

[@crimsonpirate1710]

Not everyone wants to wave their willy at people

[@tlig]

My car.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Great to hear! How are you finding it?

[@tlig]

@@OsvUkVehicleSupply Haha. I wrote that in hope; I haven't got it, would love to though.

[@andrewgriffiths3507]

Always wearing them gloves 🧤

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

🧤🧤🧤

[@crimsonpirate1710]

😂😂😂😂

[@DRAGONUZY12]

BMW 5 series vs 3 series? [For a family man]

[@benjones1180]

5 all day long

[@abdusshimla8255]

Dear sir is there a pillow and snuff tool kit in boot if so i buh...i need this kit cus im live in russia and russia very crazy basttard....anyone mess with me then i use kit before this i drink vodka

[@paulfrost6313]

Beautiful. Sad to think that BMW will ruin the next gen 5 series with their horrid grill.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

It's certainly not everyone's cup of tea, Paul ☕

[@nigelfarage69]

I'd rather take an A6 with adaptive air suspension.

[@benjones1180]

This guy is full of shit I have the new 5 and had the old 5 and both drive equally aswell just newer looks and tech is the only real difference

[@frankcoldwell4424]

Far too long to watch.

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi Frank, we specialise in comprehensive, in-depth reviews to help viewers find their perfect next vehicle. We also have a shorter version of this review if you'd prefer to watch that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2illo1tgdmnsM0

[@brianhansen2202]

That guy talks and talks and talks...

[@OsvUkVehicleSupply]

Hi Brian, we like to provide as much information about the vehicle as possible to help viewers decide if it's their perfect next vehicle 👍

[@andrewwheeler8591]

Erm it's his job to 🙄

[@EatMy50Cal]

If you like a more ‚reduced‘ review, look out for AutoTopNL or Autogefühl, which don’t really focus on detailed descriptions. You’ll find whatever you like on KZbin if only you search for it. :-)

[@richie162]

A6 better car