There are six generations that the BMW Serie 5. The German brand launched the first generation back in 1972 and, since then, sales of this model have been multiplying exponentially year after year. As a result, Propeller's signature saloon has become the world leader in its segment and, therefore, in a reference, both for customers and for manufacturers around the world. All this is due to the fact that this model knows how to mix technology, comfort and the classic touch of sportiness that the firm prints on its models.
Currently we are facing the sixth generation of this sedan, called F10, a sixth generation that is reaping very good results. Since it was presented in 2009, those of the propeller have managed to place more than a million units on the market, without taking into account the results obtained by the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo. We can say that this model is already facing the last part of its commercial cycle and for this received in March 2013 a slight restyling, a few brushstrokes that keeps it fresh to continue leading the market.
With the arrival of the restyling, not only a renewed aesthetic and new equipment possibilities were introduced, but also the appearance of a new access version in the diesel range of this German colossus. Now we can access the BMW 5 Series for 41.500 euros, an adjusted rate that corresponds to the BMW 518d. This model stands as the most austere version of the range thanks to its 2.0-liter engine with TwinPower Turbo technology that develops 143 horsepower and 360 Nm of maximum torque. This week we will check if this block is worthy of a whole BMW 5 Series, although first we will have to review all the news of the facelift.
Three brushstrokes and new finishes
Do not expect major changes in the exterior design of this model, the truth is that it does not need it either since it has an exterior line that despite the passage of time is still attractive, at least for a server. The key may be in its proportions, not so much in its generous dimensions. A long hood, a delayed cabin and overhangs that we could describe as contained, give it a dynamic profile. If we add to this a height of 1.464 mm and a width of almost 1 meter 90 centimeters, the result is a land ship but with a plumb image.
With the restyling, two new finishes have been introduced, Luxury Line and Modern Line, which we will not be able to judge since our unit did not equip any of them. In addition, we now have a greater differentiation between the bodies of this model, especially with the 5 Series Gran Turismo, described by some as the rare of the family. But, what are the main differences of restyling? They can be counted on the fingers of one hand and distinguishing one model from another with the naked eye is the difficult level of the game "find the seven differences". We can criticize the few changes, but the owners of a pre-restyling model they won't see yours outdated.
At the front there are two important changes. The first is the profiled frame of BMW's own ovoid grille, while the second is a redesign of the bumper's air intakes. It will be even more complicated to see any change in the profile of the car, since only the location of the side indicators has been changed. Now these are inserted in the housing of the mirrors. Once the 4,9 meters in length have been traveled, it will be a complex task to notice the new fold in the bumper and some light strips in the narrower and more profiled pilots. Both changes contribute, although not very noticeably, to to the feeling of width and poise.
Our test unit was dressed in Alpinweiss white and equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels. Lastly, after the slight update, all 5 Series models come standard with xenon headlights.
More functionality and customization
As we have just seen, the changes made on the outside are minimal and subtle. Don't expect to find a totally redone interior or big changes that make you think your pre-facelift 5 Series is old-fashioned. Nothing is further from reality. The German brand has retouched what is just and necessary, revising some sections to improve the functionality and practicality of this car, as well as customization, a possibility with a growing demand. This last section will have to be touched very above, since our test unit is shown as the access version and as such has fair equipment.
Regarding customization, we must say that BMW now offers a greater catalog of alloy wheels, new colors for the exterior, new shades for the upholstery and trim strips for the passenger compartment. Whoever is interested in a 518d I don't think they look at these things, but rather at the capabilities that the car has to deal with on a day-to-day basis. At this point the German model offers everything necessary for daily warfare and after the update it has larger capacity slide compartments as well as larger cup holders. As far as the interior design is concerned, the only modification lies in the chrome frame of the iDrive controller.
Stop counting. So far the changes made in the cabin. The rest is identical to the outgoing model, with a spacious and habitable interior, thanks to its two large front seats and a second row in which three adults can travel comfortably, as long as they are not very generous in size, and with some finishes and adjustments to the height of the circumstances, leaving the hard plastic to the most hidden and inaccessible areas of the cabin. In terms of ergonomics, everything is quite close at hand and the iDrive controller is already an old acquaintance. Beginners may find it somewhat complicated, although after a few hours they will get used to using it.
The press unit had the Business Navigation System with a 6,2″ screen, which replicates the indications on the small screen, difficult to read when the sun shines on it, which is located in the already classic and outdated instrument panel of the Bavarian firm (they could already change it). Do not expect an expensive Head-Up display, we have already had to pay 2.099,35 euros for the basic navigation system and a few euros for the parking sensor, 889,35 euros exactly. The list of options is huge and expensive, as usual, but what's the point of having a 518d equipped to the top.
Finally, in the rear we find a large trunk with automatic opening, the closure is already manual. We have a 520-litre capacity, a more than correct measure since we generally won't have space problems, although less than that of its German rivals. For example, the new Mercedes E-Class has a capacity of 540 liters, while the Audi A6 530 liters. A difference not at all significant, and more so when the cargo space is so usable, although due to the length of the trunk Loading heavy objects close to the second row of seats is quite a challenge.
We close for today. Tomorrow the most interesting part of our test awaits us, we will check how the performance of this engine is and if it is more than enough to be a worthy block for the BMW 5 Series.
More information about this model
- Plazas 5
- Power 197 - 489 hp
- Consumer goods 0,8 - 5,7l/100km
- Assessment 4,7
A good car, quite attractive, even with a quality interior… Until you see the dashboard… It doesn't have to be something futuristic or ornate, but pay at least 5 minutes of attention to the design. It happens with the latest releases too.
In the article I criticize it and it is not for less. Same with the BMW 3 Series. It seems inexcusable to me that with quality products these details are not pampered.
Although to some it may seem more bland than an ironing board, others will surely find great appeal in such a sober design.
They should already join TFT with analog. Motorcycles have a lot of advantage. It would be great and put them on a car 😉
The problem I see with the painting is that it seems even flat, in 2D. And this greatly impoverishes the image. Ok, it is very easy to read, it is visible, but the ease of reading does not have to be at odds with a more visual design. In addition to the classic orange lighting…