THE NEW BMW 530I XDRIVE SALOON

OHLALA SPENT THE DAY IN THE BMW 530I XDRIVE. A HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER VEHICLE IN THE MIDSIZED LUXURY SALOON SEGMENT, AND FOR GOOD REASON.

Having test driven almost a dozen different BMW models over the years, OHLALA is yet to experience a creation from this German car manufacturing giant that does not meet our approval.

This month, thanks to the exceptional team at Euro Motors, we were given the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the latest-generation BMW 530i xDrive Saloon.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The 530i showcases an exquisite sporting style, highlighted by its bold lines and clean surfaces. At the front end, the uniquely shaped kidney grille, framed by a single-piece surround, is wider and taller than its predecessor. This centrepiece drops down into the front apron, emphasising the length of the shapely hood.

The front end also features full-LED headlights, complemented by the two U-shaped daytime driving light sources, situated alongside one another, forming a contemporary-looking light graphic.

At the sculptured flanks sit 20-inch light-alloy wheels, underscoring the athletic stance of the new 530i. At the back end, the tail lights add an additional visual impact with their L-shaped graphic and black edging. We found it very interesting how both the rear and brake lights have been expertly integrated into a shared light fixture with a predominantly three-dimensional external lens. Further adding to the sporty nature of the vehicle are the stylish, free-form trapezoidal tailpipe finishers.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Slipping into the electronically adjustable front seats of the 530i, we were greeted by an interior that effortlessly combines modern elegance with a driver-focussed cockpit design. This captivating combination not only provides the perfect environment for comfortable long-distance travel but the setup for sheer driving pleasure.

Wherever our eyes settled in the new 5-Series cabin, they were met with precise craft and high-quality materials. In our test model, the black surfaces of the instrument panel were trimmed in the optional Sensatec, enriched by contrast stitching in a classy shade of brown. Additionally, the buttons located on the centre console were surfaced in high-gloss black.

A generous feeling of space is evident throughout the 530i, with plenty of leg, shoulder and headroom available for up to five occupants. Further adding to the practical nature of the vehicle is the 530-litre luggage compartment, with its hands-free opening and closing tailgate. Its capacity can be greatly increased with the 40:20:40 split rear seats folded flat. This is achievable through the mere touch of a button located in the boot.

“The 530i showcases an exquisite sporting style, highlighted by its bold lines and clean surfaces.”

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

The infotainment system of the new 530i features a standard 10.25-inch Control Display, designer controls on the centre console and conveniently arranged multifunction buttons on the sports steering wheel. We found this practical system to be of exceptionally high quality and responsive to commands.

The latest-generation 530i contains the BMW Operating System 7 that incorporates both the standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus, along with the optional Live Cockpit Professional. These features, along with an array of additional digital services, assist the driver in multiple ways.

We were once again impressed by the cloud-based BMW Maps. It calculates routes and arrival times almost instantly and provides real-time traffic data, at short intervals, amongst other handy features.

The 530i also provides full smartphone connectivity, Google Assistant, Bluetooth/wi-fi interfaces, a head-up display, a multimedia system, BMW Intelligent Personal Assist, along with Remote Software Upgrades.

SAFETY & ASSISTANCE

Alongside the multiple standard airbags fitted throughout the vehicle, BMW have included various driver assistance systems in their saloon. These include cruise control with brake function and the Attentiveness Assistant.

The optional Driving Assistant is a camera- and radar-based driver assistance system that offers additional features. These include lane departure warning, lane changing warning with blind spot detection, front collision warning with brake intervention, rear crossing traffic warning and rear collision warning.

POWER & PERFORMANCE

Our test model 530i xDrive Saloon was powered by a four-cylinder, inline petrol engine featuring mild hybrid technology and coupled with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. This setup produces a capacity of 1,998cc, an output of 252hp and a max torque of 250Nm. All this power enables the 530i xDrive to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable 6.3 seconds and to attain an electronically capped top speed of 250km/h.

We were excited by the way the BMW xDrive system maximises traction and handling stability. Furthermore, the effective braking system always managed to tame the abundance of power on offer, adding to the sense of ultimate control this remarkable car provides.

OUR VERDICT

Featuring beautiful interior and exterior designs, responsive driving performance and plenty of both comfort and assistance, you simply can’t go wrong with this four-door luxury saloon.

For more information or to book a test drive of your own,
please call Euro Motors on 1775 0750.
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@euromotors_bh

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