BMW’s 5 series badge has been a firm fixture in the automobile market for well over 40 years. The sixth generation is the F10, made from 2010 to 2016, and it cemented its track record as one of the leading executive automobile choices in the world.
The 5 series generation that preceded this one certainly had its detractors, mostly due to its controversial styling, both inside and out. but those criticisms swiftly disappeared with the sixth-generation car, which toned down the quirkiness and returned to a a lot more sober, conservative character. It’s one of the most popular choices for those trying to find executive wheels.
Advertisement – post continues below
The sixth-generation 5 series saloon debuted in 2010, but the model had actually been heralded by an alternative body style that went on sale the year before: 2009 saw the launch of the 5 series GT body style. The GT (Gran Turismo) was an all-new model in the line up – a distinctive-looking five-door hatchback variant that adds some extra practicality. However, the biggest sellers in the 5 series range remain the four-door saloon and Touring five-door estate body styles.
A subtle facelift to the car’s looks, as well as some updated interior technology, occurred in 2013. This facelift helped keep the 5 series looking relatively fresh, but in the intervening years rivals have clawed back some ground on the BMW, with newer models like the Jaguar XF and the advanced Mercedes-Benz E-Class hitting the market.
There’s a strong choice of engines under the bonnet, all of which benefit from BMW’s EfficientDynamics technology to boost fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions. Petrol units include a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder powering the 520i and 528i models, a forced-induction 3.0-litre six-cylinder for the 535i, while for the 550i, there’s a twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8. BMW’s eco model in the range, the ActiveHybrid 5, combines a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a lithium-ion battery pack – although it’s not a plug-in hybrid.
Advertisement – post continues below
