When you’re looking at a luxury sedan, the details often seal the deal—things like size, mileage, performance, and of course, the features you live with every day. The BMW 5 Series doesn’t just throw numbers on a brochure; it mixes those figures with a real-world ease that explains why it has been such a popular executive sedan in India.
On the tape measure, the 5 Series stretches to 4,963 mm in length, 1,868 mm in width, and 1,479 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,975 mm. Ground clearance sits at about 144 mm—not SUV-high, but manageable on most Indian roads if you’re careful over speed breakers. That long wheelbase really helps passengers at the back, while the proportions give it the classic understated BMW stance.
Through its current generation, BMW has sold the 5 Series with both petrol and diesel options. The 530i petrol makes 252 bhp and 350 Nm, while the 530d diesel pushes out 265 bhp and a strong 620 Nm. On paper the difference doesn’t look huge, but in everyday driving, the diesel feels punchier, especially when overtaking. Both engines are paired with BMW’s 8-speed automatic gearbox, which owners often describe as smooth at low speeds and quick when you put your foot down.
This car is no slouch. The petrol version hits 0–100 km/h in about 6.1 seconds, while the diesel gets there in roughly 5.7 seconds. Like most German luxury cars, the top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h—not that you’ll ever test it on Indian highways, but it shows how much performance sits under the bonnet.
BMW claims the 530i petrol returns around 14.8 km/l, while the 530d diesel can go up to 20.4 km/l under ideal test conditions. In the real world, owners usually see 10–12 km/l in the city and 14–16 km/l on highways. Pretty reasonable for a big sedan with this kind of performance.
Practicality isn’t forgotten either. The boot measures 530 litres, enough for a couple of large suitcases plus smaller bags—perfect for airport runs or road trips. The rear seats are comfortable and supportive, though if maximum legroom is the priority, the long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz E-Class edges it.
Step inside and the cabin feels every bit as premium as you’d expect. The iDrive infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital display, gesture controls, ambient lighting, and wireless charging are all part of the package. Higher trims throw in extras like a Harman Kardon sound system, ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Interestingly, BMW keeps a good mix of touch and physical buttons, which many drivers still prefer over all-screen setups.
Safety is another strong point. Standard equipment includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control, traction control, and tyre pressure monitoring. Step up to the higher trims and you’ll also find adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and emergency braking. More than the tech, though, what stands out is the solid build and stability at highway speeds—the kind of confidence BMW has always been known for.
| Mileage (ARAI) | 17.42 |
| Max torque (Nm) | -- |
| Max power (bhp) | -- |
| Seating capacity | -- |
| Gear box | -- |
| Displacement | 1995 |
| Number of cylinders | -- |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Fuel Type | diesel |
| Adaptive suspension for smoother highway drive | |
| Gesture-controlled infotainment system | |
| Premium audio upgrade option | |
| Multiple driver assistance features |
| Popular Variants | On-Road Price*in Delhi |
|---|---|
530Li M Sport (Titanium Bronze) petrolautomatic1998 cc15.7 kmpl | ₹ 83.72 Lakh |
Among luxury executive sedans, the BMW 5 Series has long set the benchmark for balancing sharp driving dynamics with premium comfort. Positioned between the compact 3 Series and the flagship 7 Series, it takes on direct rivals such as the Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Jaguar XF. Where the E-Class leans heavily toward comfort and the A6 focuses on understated elegance, the 5 Series has built its reputation as the “driver’s car” of the segment—without compromising on everyday usability.
Reviewers consistently highlight how well the BMW 5 Series blends a sporty edge with business-class luxury. Owners report that while it’s engaging on highways and corners, it also serves well as a family sedan, with refinement and safety features to match expectations in this class. Professionals and executives often appreciate its dual personality: chauffeur-friendly during the week, yet rewarding to drive on weekends.
For those considering a used BMW 5 Series, much of that luxury and driving pleasure remains intact, making it an appealing alternative at a more attainable entry cost. Buyers get access to BMW’s engineering and technology at a fraction of the new car price—one of the strongest reasons why the 5 Series continues to be in demand in the pre-owned luxury car market.
| Design | 4/5 | |
| Paint Quality | 4/5 | |
| Panel Gaps | 4/5 |
| Design | 4/5 | |
| Space | 4/5 | |
| Comfort | 4/5 |
| No. of Airbags | 4 | |
| Features | 4/5 |
| Stability | 4/5 | |
| Eng. Response | 4/5 | |
| Clutch & Gears | 4/5 |
| Pros | Balanced ride and sharp handling | Premium interior materials and finish | Strong performance across variants | Advanced infotainment and features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cons | Ride can feel stiff on rough roads | Higher service and maintenance costs | Rear space trails Mercedes E-Class | Infotainment has a learning curve |
"Rear space is adequate but not as roomy as the E-Class. Still, the driving experience makes up for it."
"I use it for both office commutes and weekend trips. The refinement is top-notch, and it still feels engaging to drive."
"Handling is precise, steering is sharp. Long drives are a pleasure, though service costs are on the higher side."
"Suspension is firmer than expected on rough roads. On highways, though, the car is planted and solid."