2018 BMW 5-Series Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What's New for 2018?
The only noteworthy changes for the 2018 lineup are the additions of the M550i xDrive and the plug-in hybrid 530e iPerformance models. Other than that, most things remain unchanged from the 2017 model.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 BMW 5-Series – The Pros
1. A Long List of Technological and Safety Features
As you might expect from a luxury vehicle, the 2018 BMW 5-Series comes loaded with a long list of safety and tech features. All of the infotainment features work extremely well and offer easy-to-use controls. A navigation system comes standard on the vehicle's lineup, as does Bluetooth.
2. Multiple Powertrain Options
If you want choices, you've got them. There are quite a few solid powertrain options to choose from. The base 530i trim comes with a 2.0-L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. The 540i xDrive can be equipped with a 3.0-L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine, while the line-topping M550i xDrive has an impressive 4.4-L 8-cylinder turbocharged engine. The hybrid 530e iPerformance and 530e xDrive iPerformance come with a 2.0-L 4-cylinder turbocharged gas/electric hybrid. All of these engines come with the standard 8-speed automatic transmission.
3. A Spacious Cabin
The interior of the 2018 BMW 5-Series is incredibly spacious. Front and rear occupants have more than enough head, shoulder, hip, and legroom. Everything feels luxurious and comfortable, and it is easy to enjoy long rides in this cozy interior.
4. High-Quality Materials
There is no doubt that the materials utilized to craft the 2018 BMW 5-Series are high-quality. Everything in the cabin looks expensive, including the trim, stitching, and leather seats. All knobs and controls look like they will hold up well over time.
5. The Plug-In Hybrid Variant Options
You can opt for the 530e iPerformance or the 530e xDrive iPerformance, which comes equipped with all-wheel drive. Either way, you're getting a relatively good deal on a hybrid variant. They both get decent fuel economy with only 1 combined mpg separating them. The powertrain is pretty strong for this class, and you can get about 16 miles on electric alone, which is also quite good.
6. Swift Acceleration
Since all engines are paired with 8-speed automatic transmissions, each trim gets quite a bit of hp and torque. Regardless of which trim you choose, the vehicle should be able to go from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 6 seconds, which is quite fast for this segment.
7. Easy To Find a Comfortable Driving Position
The driver's seat is adjustable 10 or 12 ways, depending on which trim you get. The front passenger seat is equally as adjustable. Drivers of any size will not have a problem quickly finding a driving position that works well for them, and the tilt and telescoping steering wheel makes this even easier to accomplish.
8. A Unique Interior
The 2018 BMW 5-Series has a unique interior appearance. The seats have patterns stitched into them that make them stand out from the competition. These types of small but significant details can be found throughout the cabin and add to the vehicle's personality.
9. Plenty of Cargo Space
The 5-Series bests many of its rivals with its 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be increased when you fold the rear seats down. Even the hybrid variant gives a generous 14.5 cubic feet of space since its battery pack is conveniently placed out of the way.
10. The Infotainment System's Knob Controller
Younger drivers might take this for granted, but those who grew up with knob controllers will love that BMW keeps a knob controller for the infotainment system. While the system is easy to use from the touchscreen, it goes to show that BMW cares about its drivers and their diverse needs.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 BMW 5-Series – The Cons
1. Blind Spot Monitoring is Only Optional
While some automakers have made blind spot monitoring standard on their luxury vehicles, BMW has yet to do so on the 5-Series. It is available as an option, but it would be nice to see it added as standard on at least the higher trim levels.
2. A Rearview Camera Isn't Standard
Surprisingly, a rearview camera is also not standard on the 5-Series. Even economy vehicles are now made with standard rearview cameras, so this is a bit puzzling. Again, it can be added on, but it comes at an additional cost.
3. The Price
The price of the vehicle itself might be something of a deterrent for some drivers. Without a standard rearview camera and other active safety equipment, this might not make it worth the cost for some people. The add-ons and packages bulk the price up even higher, so drivers will really want to get only the essentials if they are shopping on a budget.
How it stacks up to the competition:
2018 BMW 5-Series vs. 2018 Volvo S90
The 2018 Volvo S90 is one of the most comfortable vehicles in this class. Its seats are some of the most well-bolstered that are available. The S90's interior rivals that of the 5-Series, and the vehicle is loaded to the brim with safety and technological features. The infotainment system is superbly intuitive and is probably one of the best on the market. The only downfalls are that it gives a bumpy ride when equipped with some of the optional wheels and that the steering is heavier than it should be.
2018 BMW 5-Series vs. 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Another top competitor for the model year is the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Whether you get the coupe, convertible, or sedan, you are buying something that looks elegant and has a ton of customization options. The well-loved and high-powered AMG models are back for 2018, and there is a tremendous amount of driver assist features loaded onto the vehicle. However, the E-Class's sedan doesn't have much cargo space, and the base suspension feels too stiff.
Conclusion
The 2018 BMW 5-Series epitomizes luxury without compromising on user-friendliness. It is easy to get comfortable behind the wheel of this luxury sedan. The hybrid variant will likely be an attractive option to those looking for a good hybrid model, and the gas-powered models are certainly exciting to drive.
