2019 BMW 5-Series Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Whether you’re seeking everyday comfort or desire heart-stopping performance, the 2019 BMW 5-Series promises to deliver. It remains one of the highest-ranked midsize luxury sedans on the market. While the even base 530i is quite lavish, a number of cutting-edge features are available. Despite having very few shortcomings, the new 5-Series is not a flawless car. Let’s check out this luxury sedan’s pros and cons.

What’s New for 2019?

To give buyers more for their money, BMW has equipped the new 5-Series with a few more standard safety technologies. Furthermore, Apple CarPlay is now standard on every 2019 BMW 5-Series.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 BMW 5-Series – The Pros

1. Lively, Efficient Base Engine

A TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine comes standard on the base 530i model. It’s a great choice for the buyers who plan to drive the sedan on an everyday basis. While BMW rates this engine to produce 248 horsepower, don’t be surprised if it feels even stronger during your test drive. You’ll be able to hit 60 mph in 6.0 seconds flat. In terms of fuel economy, anticipate getting up to 34 mpg on premium gas.

2. Strong 540i Model

Although the 540i model looks identical to the base 2019 BMW 5-Series, a more powerful engine rests under its hood. The turbocharged inline-six engine develops a spirited 335 horsepower. When tested by a professional driver on the track, the 540i ripped a 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds. While the 540i may not be as efficient on gas, you can still look forward to getting a combined 24 mpg.

3. M550i Model Brings the Excitement

If you don’t mind sacrificing some fuel efficiency, consider getting the high-output M550i model. It’s designed to deliver the maximum performance. Motivating the M550i is a turbocharged V8 engine, which punches out an exhilarating 456 horsepower. With a 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds, the M550i will give a lot of sports cars a run for their money. An adaptive suspension and 19-inch performance tires aid handling. You’ll also notice the M550i's more aggressive styling treatments.

4. Smooth, Quiet Ride

The 2019 BMW 5-Series is a car you’ll love taking on road trips. Its plush ride will make you feel completely at peace on the highway. Passengers will barely even feel large cracks in the road. BMW also made sure there’s no wind noise inside the cabin. Although you may hear the engine during acceleration, it’s only a quiet rumble. The sedan’s well-insulated interior also helps enhance the audio system’s sound quality.

5. Conservative Yet Attractive Styling

The 2019 BMW 5-Series is a very elegant car. Like so many other BMW automobiles, it has a very sporty stance. On the front, BMW’s classic grille helps give the 5-Series a signature look. If you’re seeking a bit more sportiness, opt for the M Sport package. It outfits the sedan with a seductive body kit and a lowered suspension. Some of the available paint colors include Champagne Quartz Metallic. Alpine White, and Dark Graphite Metallic.

6. Very Comfy Car

As expected, the 2019 BMW 5-Series provides an above-average level of comfort. As soon as you sit behind the wheel, you’ll immediately experience a feeling of relaxation. Because the front seats have such a good amount of adjustment, everyone should be able to obtain a comfortable sitting position. Featuring massaging cushions, the optional multicontour seats will allow you to further unwind on the road. Meanwhile, the available powered sunshades help keep kids comfy.

7. Base Model Will Fulfill Most People

Some buyers will desire all the bells and whistles. However, the base 2019 BMW 5-Series is luxurious enough for most folks. BMW’s simulated-leather upholstery has a very extravagant feel. You’ll also enjoy the 530i’s lively performance. Some of the standard features include a 10.2-inch display with Apple CarPlay, navigation, and LED adaptive headlamps for improved visibility at night. It’s at least $5,000 less expensive than the next highest trim.

8. More Safety Technologies

Last year, BMW forced buyers to fork over extra cash for advanced safety technologies. Fortunately, all versions of the 2019 BMW 5-Series now come standard with some helpful driving aids. While blind-spot monitoring aids your ability to safely change lanes, the forward collision warning system can automatically stop the sedan during emergencies. Lane departure alert and rear cross-traffic alert are also found throughout the lineup.

9. Remote Control Parking

Exiting your vehicle in tight areas can be a bit of a struggle. BMW’s Remote Control Parking system can help. It enables you to remotely move the sedan forward and backward via a touch-sensitive keypad. No longer will you need to squeeze out of your car. When using the Remote Control Parking feature, the chances of you dinging a door are significantly lower.

10. Features to Keep Your Family Entertained

The 2019 BMW 5-Series offers some great entertainment features. An available Wi-Fi hot spot enables families to remain logged-in to the web. Designed with twin display screens and a DVD drive, the rear entertainment system easily connects to game consoles. While the standard 205-watt sound system is decent, the optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system gives you the feeling of being at a live concert.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 BMW 5-Series – The Cons

1. Some Trims Are Costly

BMW luxury vehicles tend to be on the expensive side. The 2019 BMW 5-Series is no exception. While the base 530i has the most affordable price tag, it still costs thousands of dollars more than a fully loaded Honda Accord. If you desire the high-powered M550i model, be prepared to pay nearly $75,000. Options, such as night vision and soft-close automatic doors, will add to the car’s steep cost.

2. Steering Feel a Bit Vague

Some drivers may desire a bit more feedback from the sedan’s electric power steering rack. This is especially true for the folks who are accustomed to driving a traditional sports sedan. It’s not as communicative as previous steering systems. Although the 5-Series features a Sport mode, it still does not give you a direct connection to the road surface.

3. BMW Doesn’t Offer a Manual Transmission Anymore

In the past, the BMW 5-Series offered one of the most enjoyable manual transmissions in the class. Sadly, BMW no longer offers the 5-Series with a stick shift. This will disappoint the driving purists who love the art of changing gears. If you find automatic transmissions to be a bit boring, check out the 2019 Kia Stinger and the 2019 Audi A4. These midsize sedans still offer a manual gearbox.

4. Not As Fun to Drive as Previous Generations

While the new 5-Series has a sporty character, it’s not as fun to drive as the previous generations. Some drivers may find it to be too unassertive. The 2019 Dodge Charger Daytona is more thrilling to drive.

5. Some Families May Desire More Legroom

The 2019 BMW 5-Series provides a good amount of legroom. Nevertheless, some families may still desire more space. Under-seat toe room could be an issue for folks with large feet. Stepping up to the larger BMW 7 Series will solve this issue.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

The 2019 Audi A6 is among this sedan’s closest competitors. While the Audi A6 boasts a great interior, its ride is not quite as smooth. However, a greater number of premium features come standard on the Audi A6. You may also be considering the new 2019 Lexus GS. It nearly matches the luxuriousness of the 5-Series for a significantly lower price. Furthermore, Lexus is known for producing long-lasting cars. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is yet another great luxury sedan. When choosing between the E-Class and the 5-Series, it may come down to a simple matter of personal preference.

Conclusion

It’s hard not to recommend the 2019 BMW 5-Series. It does not have very many weak points. You’ll enjoy its luxurious cabin and soothing ride. Although the base 530i model comes loaded with ample equipment, BMW offers a dizzying number of options. A Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS also makes the 5-Series a secure family vehicle. However, don’t overlook the sedan’s price tag. The upper trims could become a financial burden for some buyers.