BMW 5 Series 2024 Review

The luxury executive sedan market has always been a fiercely competitive battlefield for automobile manufacturers. Consumers value brand identity and also have stringent requirements for configuration, space, and driving experience. The 2024 BMW 520i M Sport officially entered the market in September with a price tag of RM 349,800, targeting a specific market segment. Its core selling points are the sporty exterior brought by the M Sport package, comprehensive smart features, and the fuel efficiency of the hybrid system. In this test drive, we will focus on its static quality and dynamic performance to see if this mid-cycle facelift of the classic model can meet the needs of executive-level users.

From its appearance, the 2024 BMW 520i M Sport continues BMW's family design language while featuring sportier details. The front end uses a large kidney-shaped grille paired with a blackened M Sport front bumper. The sharp-edged air intakes on both sides enhance its visual aggressiveness. The side profile features smooth lines, with a waistline extending from the front fender to the rear, complemented by 19-inch M-specific wheels. The overall stance is low and dynamic. At the rear, the LED taillights adopt a smoked black design, and the internal light strips are L-shaped for high recognizability. The M Sport rear bumper features a diffuser design, and the dual exhaust outlets further emphasize its sporty attributes. The lighting system includes standard all-LED headlights with automatic headlamps and daytime running lights, providing clear illumination and sufficient visibility at night.

Inside, the interior adopts BMW's latest family layout, with black as the main color, complemented by silver trims and M Sport-specific logos, creating a luxurious and sporty atmosphere. The center console features a 14.9-inch Curved Display screen integrated with the iDrive 8.0 smart system, offering smooth operation and voice control support. The instrument panel is fully digital, with a clear interface and customizable display content. In terms of materials, the seats are made of genuine leather, and the front seats support electric adjustment and memory functions, providing good support. The rear seats can be folded in a 40:20:40 split and their backrest angle can be manually adjusted. Standard features include a HUD head-up display, Harman Kardon 12-speaker sound system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and independent rear air conditioning, balancing practicality and comfort.

As for space, the dimensions of the car measure 5060mm in length, 1900mm in width, and 1515mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2900mm, placing it at the mainstream level in its class. The front seats offer spacious room; for passengers with a height of 180cm, there is approximately a fist of headroom and over two fists of legroom. The rear seats provide two fists of legroom and about a fist of headroom, meeting the needs for family or business travel. In terms of storage capability, the trunk has a capacity of 490 liters, with a regular shape that can accommodate three 20-inch suitcases. Additionally, details like the front center armrest box and door panel storage compartments provide ample storage space for daily use.

In terms of the powertrain, the 520i M Sport is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine and a 48V mild hybrid system. The engine has a maximum power output of 153kW (208PS) and a maximum torque of 330N·m, with a system combined power output of 155kW (211PS). It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and features a rear-wheel-drive layout. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 230km/h. During actual driving, the mild hybrid system engages smoothly during start-up, with responsive power delivery. Acceleration at low to medium speeds is brisk, and the transmission shifting logic is clear with decisive downshifts. When switched to Sport mode, throttle sensitivity increases, and power output becomes more immediate, providing ample confidence for overtaking.

In terms of handling performance, the steering wheel is precise with minimal play and moderate feedback strength. In sports mode, the steering feels heavier, enhancing driving pleasure. The chassis features a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, tuned for sportiness, with good support. When driving over bumpy roads, the suspension effectively filters out minor vibrations and keeps the body stable; during high-speed cornering, body roll is well-controlled, tire grip is sufficient, and the overall performance is stable. The braking system responds sensitively, with linear brake force output, and the vehicle maintains stability during emergency braking.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 5.8L/100km. During actual test drives, the fuel consumption in city roads is about 7.2L/100km, and about 5.5L/100km on highways, which meets expectations. As for noise control, wind and tire noise are well suppressed during high-speed driving, with in-cabin conversations remaining unaffected; engine noise is slightly noticeable at high rpm but does not impact comfort. Regarding ride comfort, the seats offer good support and cushioning, making long trips less fatiguing. The energy recovery system is adjustable, and the default mode provides moderate recovery strength, ensuring smooth drivability.

In terms of safety features, the 520i M Sport comes standard with six safety airbags, ABS anti-lock braking, ESP stability control, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, ACC adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree panoramic camera, and more, offering comprehensive safety. Compared to similar models such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6L, the 520i M Sport provides richer features at a similar price point, especially in terms of intelligent driving assistance systems and comfort configurations, making it an outstanding value for money.

In summary, the core advantages of the 2024 BMW 520i M Sport lie in its sporty exterior design, comprehensive intelligent configurations, balanced power performance, and excellent handling. Compared to competitors in the same class, it offers more competitive features and value for money, making it suitable for consumers who prioritize brand prestige, pursue a sporty driving experience, and also need a family-friendly vehicle. Whether for daily commuting or long-distance travel, this car provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, making it a worthy contender in the luxury executive sedan market.