The G30 5 Series is now in its final year, following a refresh for the 2021 model year. This seventh-generation 2023 BMW 5 Series fills mostly the same niche as it always has: it provides dynamic driving with understated looks and a plush interior. With four engine choices, a mostly-modern suite of technology, and lots of driver assistance goodies, it’s still a fan favorite in the luxury sedan segment, despite more options than ever from rivals like Genesis, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.
Standard issue for the 2023 BMW 5 Series is the 530i or 530i xDrive for those that need all-wheel drive. A turbocharged four-cylinder sits under the hood providing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It’s not going to win any drag races, and BMW estimates that zero to 60 mph takes around 5.9 seconds. The sweetheart of the group is the 540i, which uses the ubiquitous B58 turbocharged six-cylinder making 335 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. With xDrive, it’ll dash from a standstill to 60 mph in a remarkable 4.6 seconds – only about half a second slower than the last-generation F10 M5.
A plug-in hybrid 530e is available, too, pairing the four-cylinder with a battery and motor setup. It makes 288 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Though it’s an economical option for those that can live with the short all-electric range, it’s a bit of a shame BMW didn’t pair it with the inline six for gratuitous acceleration potential.
The group’s top performer (sans the incredible M5, of course) is the M550i xDrive. It relies on a twin-turbo V8 producing 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque and rockets through the quarter mile in 11.8 seconds. It’s considerably faster than, well, most cars, and is worth the premium if you crave performance. From zero to 60 mph, it’s even pretty close to matching the mighty R35 Nissan GT-R.
Despite its hybrid powertrain, the 530e does not technically lead the pack when it comes to fuel economy. That crown goes to…
