The BMW 530d is easily the most expensive car in this year’s competition. Should 2004 turn out to be the year of the luxury limo, this could count in its favour.
With its straight-six, common-rail diesel engine developing 160kW of power and eye-popping torque of 500Nm, this powerful oil-burner takes no prisoners. It comfortably outperforms most so-called sports cars with its top speed of 245kph and acceleration figures of 0-100 kph in 7,1 seconds (as claimed by the manufacturers in Munich).
Despite gobbling up the road at this impressive rate, it still manages to sip a mere 6,9 litres of fuel every 100km — also a factory claim.
Visually, the new 5 Series makes a dramatic statement, albeit somewhat more understated than the over- the-top 7 Series. The customary Bangle Angles at the rear are now also available (at no additional charge), yet the 530d manages to look sporting, elegant and robust all at the same time. The powerful front headlights (bi-xenon) make an impressive style statement — and the car is best viewed from the front.
Making use of innovative technologies — including a brand-new, weight-saving aluminium/steel bodywork structure, which, depending on the model, lowers overall mass by 75kg — the saloon offers more space and comfort with less mass.
The luggage room is now significantly larger — taking care of an old gripe against BMW.
Another advantage is the near-perfect 50/50-weight distribution for this front-engined, rear-wheel-drive vehicle. This should do wonders for its handling, which, in the past, has always been exemplary anyway.
Ergonomics
Controversially, the cockpit layout is based on BMW’s iDrive philosophy. Translated, this means that the driver should be at least semi-computer literate to be able to get a blast of cold air on to his or her feet. The appearance of iDrive has certainly generated deep and meaningful discussions. The technologically-minded younger generation love and admire this cocking-a-snoot attitude towards arch-rivals, while older folks yearn for the days when the simple touch of a button switched on the air conditioning.
Being a BMW, no expense was spared to make the car as safe as possible. Adaptive headlights can “see” around corners, dynamic stability control makes most drivers appear better than they really are, and the vehicle is crammed with air bags.
Most functions essential for safe motoring are within the driver’s immediate reach on or around the steering wheel, while the basic comfort functions are in the centre console. All other settings, functions and services are in the hands of the driver or front passenger using the controller and control display specially modified for the 5 Series (translating this PR speak means the iDrive was redesigned to be more user-friendly).
The interior
Customers are able to choose the new 5 Series in five equipment variants and four interior colours. Another innovative standard feature includes automatic air conditioning with adaptive evaporation temperature control to prevent the occupants’ mucous membranes from growing too cold and drying out. Contact-lens wearers will also love this feature.
Overall impression
The BMW 530d manual is aimed squarely at the business community and professional classes. It is well-built and rattle-free in the proud tradition of executive German saloons.
Yet some questions remain. The fusion of aluminium/steel could present a nightmare to a repair shop. Only suitably trained mechanics and specially appointed facilities will be able to effect repairs.
The iDrive remains controversial and a nuisance. It seems BMW doesn’t wish to subscribe to the Japanese kiss principle (keep it simple, stupid). Well-heeled elderly folk (those who can afford to buy a 5 Series) may just decide that the iDrive should be someone else’s problem and opt for a less complicated chariot.
As a Car of the Year contender, the BMW 530d is in with a strong chance if the trend of recent years (let’s anoint the econoboxes) is reversed.
Mechanically and in terms of build quality, it probably fills the top slot.
Now BMW must convince the jury members to look beyond the Chris Bangle Boot and the i (irritating) Drive when assessing this contender. After all, should the BMW 530d win, it will be following in the proud tyre treadmarks of the 735i (1988), the 535i (1990), the 316i (1993), the 528i (1998) and the 320d (2001).