If you were impressed by the BMW 3 Series, the 5 series will stun you. At first glance you may not notice the difference. However look more closely and you will discover the longer bonnet that hides a powerful 6-cylinder engine. This is no tame horse –the manufacturer’s and indeed international norms classify this as a sedan, its external size and interior space will rank it as a big luxury car in India. Then what would you call the 7 series? That is indeed a million dollar question!
In India customers will be offered three petrol and one diesel version. German diesel engine technology is so superior that it gives near petrol engine ride comfort and driving pleasure. The attainment of maximum torque at lower rpm makes it ideal for city traffic, while giving economy on the highways. But paying Rs.15 lakhs more is something of a individualised decision. Me, I am still a petrol engine fan, but already a wavering one.
Cylinders/valves Capacity cm Max. output Maximum torque
in cubic in kW at 1/min¹ in Nm at 1/min¹
523i 6/4 2497 Figures withheld awaiting ARAI
525i 6/4 2497 approval. (range of 182 hp (135 kW according
530i 6/4 2996 to official sources)
525d 6/4 2993
In true BMW style the cars come equipped with an alarm system, automatic air conditioning with extended features, automatic transmission, car phone preparation, 6-CD changer, chrome line exterior, cruise control, cup holder, exterior parts in body colour, and floor mats in velour.
If you thought 3 series was too techie, check the additional gizmos on the % series-a glass roof, electrical with sliding and tilting function, headlight beam-throw control, automatic, HiFi loudspeaker system, interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function, leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, park distance control, rain sensor, seat adjustment, electrical with memory for driver’s seat, Servotronic, sports leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, sunblind for rear window, electrical sun blinds for rear side windows, mechanical TV function, windscreen with green shade band, Xenon light including headlight washer system.
The 5 series is the fastest 4-door sedan in production top speed = 205 mph. Miles –not kilometres.
Safety Features
Airbags for driver and front passenger, with seat occupant detector, bumper system with interchangeable crumple zones front and rear Dynamic
Stability Control (including ABS). Front belt system with automatic height adjustment, belt force limiter and pyrotechnic belt buckle tensioner;
front-to-rear head airbags,
integrated side-impact protection; run-flat indicator, run-flat tyres, safety battery terminal clamp, side airbags for front and rear passengers, warning triangle with first-aid kit.
Interior Trim
Fine-wood trim poplar grain brown
Exterior Colour
Black Sapphire, Monaco Blue, Platinum Grey, and Titanium Silver
Upholstery
Dakota leather Beige, Dakota leather Black, and Dakota leather Grey
Alloy Wheels
Radial spoke 244 with run-flat tyres 7,5J x 17 / 225/50 R17
Star spoke 246 with run-flat tyres 8J x 18 / 245/40 R18
Price: 523i Rs.37,00,000; 525i Rs.40,90,000; 530i Rs.45,00,000; 525d Rs.42,40,000
