The 2017 BMW 5 Series’ most economical version consumes just 2 liters/100 km.
The 530e is the best choice if fuel economy is your primary concern. It has all the same features as the 5Series G30 but in a smaller package that doesn’t compromise performance. From the outside, it looks just about the same as the conventionally-powered models, but it does come with a blue inlay for the kidney grille, an “iPerformance” badge and obviously, the second cap to plug it in and recharge the battery pack.
The powertrain was essentially sourced from the smaller 330e that we reviewed a few months back. The powertrain combines a turbocharged 2.0 liter gasoline engine that produces 184 horsepower (135kilowatts) and an electric motor rated 95 hp (70.0 kW) for a total output 252 HP (185 kW) as well as 310 pound-feet (442 Newton-meters).
The eight-speed automatic transmission delivers the hybrid punch to the wheels and allows the 530e to reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 6.2 seconds. This makes it 0.1s faster than the lighter 330e. The 530e can reach 146 mph (235 kph) with the combined power of the electric motor and combustion engine. This is a little faster than the 330e which averages 140 mph (2225 kph). If you’re looking to use electric power, the 530e can reach speeds up to 87 MPH (140 Kph), but that will drain your battery much faster.
The new BMW530e is more efficient than the 330e. It can travel 45 km (28 miles) on its own, or as a hybrid, and will consume just 2 liters (100 km) (117.6 MPG US, 141.2 MPG UK), with CO2 emissions of 46 g/km. To match the extra bulk of the car, the 530e uses a 9.2 kWh battery pack. The 330e has 7.6 kWh lithium-ion batteries.
The new 530e, a successor to the ActiveHybrid5, is compatible with the My BMW Remote App on Android and iOS. This allows the owner to remotely monitor the battery level, remaining range, and schedule charging.
The 530e is expected to go on sale in March 2017. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.