BMW 5 Series Sedan 530i vs Lexus GS Turbo GS200t vs Volvo S90 T5
19 Jun 2017|42,024 views
BMW 5 Series
Sportiest styling
Most driver-centric and stylish cabin
Best for people who love driving
Lexus GS Turbo
Dated exterior and interior compared to the BMW and Volvo
Most soothing to be in
Very comfortable to drive
Volvo S90
Cleanest design inside and out
Most standard active safety systems
Lacks the refinement of BMW and Lexus
In the corporate world of hot shots in suits and ties, it's a daily dance of politics and brown-nosing to fight your way to the top. It's a highly competitive environment not made for everyone, but those who manage to pay the piper do reap satisfying rewards such as the financial capacity to own more expensive cars, which bespeaks one's achievements and lifestyle.
This brings us to the topic of executive sedans.
Like the corporate combat zones of men and women who own them, executive sedans, too, struggle in a dog-eat-dog world. Every now and then, new technologies and designs one-up a brand and leave its competitors in the dust. The latest model to re-enter the boxing ring is the new BMW 5 Series, the poster boy of high-ranking managerial types.
The new BMW 5 Series, codenamed the G30, looks to continue the legacy of its hot-selling predecessor, the F10
The outgoing F10 model set the benchmark in terms of global sales, having sold over two million units worldwide. Sporting a brand new design and features found on the larger 7 Series, the new BMW 5 Series aims to continue the German marque's glorious sales record.
Can this new iteration continue the model's legacy? We put a 5 Series 530i M Sport up against a Jap and a Swede - the highly refined Lexus GS Turbo GS200t and the tech-packed Volvo S90 T5 - to find out.
Presence
With executive sedans, design is a big deal. Buyers want a car that can project the right image - a car that's imposing, sophisticated and reasonably stylish.
The formal and precise design of the new 5 Series combines presence, aesthetic appeal and functionality in equal measure
In this aspect, the BMW is the best representation of the aforementioned elements, thanks in part to several 7 Series design cues, which exude athleticism, luxury and elegance. Compared to the previous generation, the design of the new 5 Series is more refined, more premium, yet just as sporty, if not even sportier.
The Lexus, although more fashionable than before, lacks the sophistication and road presence of the BMW. On top of that, its hawkish front end might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Likewise for Volvo, whose designers have chosen a very clean, reserved design, the S90 doesn't have enough dramatic beauty for uptown tastes.
This brings us to the topic of executive sedans.
Like the corporate combat zones of men and women who own them, executive sedans, too, struggle in a dog-eat-dog world. Every now and then, new technologies and designs one-up a brand and leave its competitors in the dust. The latest model to re-enter the boxing ring is the new BMW 5 Series, the poster boy of high-ranking managerial types.
The outgoing F10 model set the benchmark in terms of global sales, having sold over two million units worldwide. Sporting a brand new design and features found on the larger 7 Series, the new BMW 5 Series aims to continue the German marque's glorious sales record.
Can this new iteration continue the model's legacy? We put a 5 Series 530i M Sport up against a Jap and a Swede - the highly refined Lexus GS Turbo GS200t and the tech-packed Volvo S90 T5 - to find out.
Presence
With executive sedans, design is a big deal. Buyers want a car that can project the right image - a car that's imposing, sophisticated and reasonably stylish.
In this aspect, the BMW is the best representation of the aforementioned elements, thanks in part to several 7 Series design cues, which exude athleticism, luxury and elegance. Compared to the previous generation, the design of the new 5 Series is more refined, more premium, yet just as sporty, if not even sportier.
The Lexus, although more fashionable than before, lacks the sophistication and road presence of the BMW. On top of that, its hawkish front end might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Likewise for Volvo, whose designers have chosen a very clean, reserved design, the S90 doesn't have enough dramatic beauty for uptown tastes.
That's not to say the car isn't beautiful because compared to Volvos of old, this one's considered quite an eyeful.
Creature comforts
Inside, it's BMW and Lexus country. The 5 Series' cabin design is a welcoming evolution of past models, meaning ergonomics and materials used rank high. The updated iDrive infotainment system is the most uncomplicated one in this test and the car's seating position is also the most driver-focused. At the same time, cushy leather trims ensure your knees and elbows stay comfortable.
From the driver's seat, the cabin is almost indistinguishable from the latest 7 Series and that's saying a lot.
The GS' cabin may not have the best-in-class design, but its use of high-quality materials and comfort levels do shine
The GS doesn't have the most modern cabin design and the mouse-like control of its infotainment system isn't quite as user-friendly as we'd hoped. That said, the carmaker customarily boast enticingly crafted interiors with comfort to match, and the GS Turbo is no exception.
Luxury is, after all, the Japanese premium marque's strongsuit, hence the GS Turbo's top-notch interior comes as no surprise. It's also the quietest car to be in with regards to this group test.
The S90's cabin has the cleanest design of the three, but unfortunately loses out in quality of fit and finish
For drivers who love tech and minimalism, the Volvo's cabin should be a favourite. In the central console is a stylish 9.0-inch iPad-style touchscreen infotainment system that's a beauty to behold. However, it's not as easy to operate or intuitive as BMW's iDrive.
Creature comforts
Inside, it's BMW and Lexus country. The 5 Series' cabin design is a welcoming evolution of past models, meaning ergonomics and materials used rank high. The updated iDrive infotainment system is the most uncomplicated one in this test and the car's seating position is also the most driver-focused. At the same time, cushy leather trims ensure your knees and elbows stay comfortable.
From the driver's seat, the cabin is almost indistinguishable from the latest 7 Series and that's saying a lot.
The GS doesn't have the most modern cabin design and the mouse-like control of its infotainment system isn't quite as user-friendly as we'd hoped. That said, the carmaker customarily boast enticingly crafted interiors with comfort to match, and the GS Turbo is no exception.
Luxury is, after all, the Japanese premium marque's strongsuit, hence the GS Turbo's top-notch interior comes as no surprise. It's also the quietest car to be in with regards to this group test.
For drivers who love tech and minimalism, the Volvo's cabin should be a favourite. In the central console is a stylish 9.0-inch iPad-style touchscreen infotainment system that's a beauty to behold. However, it's not as easy to operate or intuitive as BMW's iDrive.
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The S90's got the cleanest cabin layout and the Swedish manufacturer has improved on refinement and luxury levels but surely, Volvo has a bit more catching up to do to match the overall creature comforts of BMW and Lexus.
At 530 litres, the 5 Series' trunk also lets you pack a bag or two more compared to the GS Turbo's 520 litres and the S90's 500 litres.
Pace and grace
Executive sedans are cars that are likely to be driven a fair bit, considering the owners have busy schedules - business meetings, taking the kids to and from school, dinner appointments and family outings. Hence, it pays to have a car that's actually a pleasure to drive.
The 5 Series isn't just the fastest here, but also has the most responsive and most impressive powertrain to boot
However, different people perceive driving pleasure differently. Some really enjoy driving dynamics; some want nothing but peace and quiet, while others bask in the glory (and peace of mind) of modern safety technology.
For the first group of people, the 5er is hands down the car to have. It has the most well-tuned powertrain, comprising of a turbo four-pot engine that's capable of churning 248bhp and 350Nm of torque.
It's slightly down on power compared to the S90's 254bhp one, but is the fastest car of the three from 0-100km/h, taking just 6.2 seconds. The S90 comes in a close second at 6.8 seconds while the GS Turbo takes 7.3 seconds.
But it's not just it's drag racing abilities that set the 5er way ahead of the competition in terms of driving pleasure. It delivers its power in an incredibly linear fashion, providing hasty throttle response and more impressively, sharper steering reaction.
The GS may be not be the fastest car in town, but power delivery and ride quality is unbelievably tofu-smooth
Its dynamic capabilities truly belie its size and in its class and in this respect, the BMW is unrivalled.
Where the GS Turbo excels is in the tranquillity department. It's got the quietest powertrain, albeit not as powerful as the two Europeans. Its trump card is comfort, and is the most relaxing car to pilot in this test.
At 530 litres, the 5 Series' trunk also lets you pack a bag or two more compared to the GS Turbo's 520 litres and the S90's 500 litres.
Pace and grace
Executive sedans are cars that are likely to be driven a fair bit, considering the owners have busy schedules - business meetings, taking the kids to and from school, dinner appointments and family outings. Hence, it pays to have a car that's actually a pleasure to drive.
However, different people perceive driving pleasure differently. Some really enjoy driving dynamics; some want nothing but peace and quiet, while others bask in the glory (and peace of mind) of modern safety technology.
For the first group of people, the 5er is hands down the car to have. It has the most well-tuned powertrain, comprising of a turbo four-pot engine that's capable of churning 248bhp and 350Nm of torque.
It's slightly down on power compared to the S90's 254bhp one, but is the fastest car of the three from 0-100km/h, taking just 6.2 seconds. The S90 comes in a close second at 6.8 seconds while the GS Turbo takes 7.3 seconds.
But it's not just it's drag racing abilities that set the 5er way ahead of the competition in terms of driving pleasure. It delivers its power in an incredibly linear fashion, providing hasty throttle response and more impressively, sharper steering reaction.
Its dynamic capabilities truly belie its size and in its class and in this respect, the BMW is unrivalled.
Where the GS Turbo excels is in the tranquillity department. It's got the quietest powertrain, albeit not as powerful as the two Europeans. Its trump card is comfort, and is the most relaxing car to pilot in this test.
The S90 is the trickier car to decipher. On its own, it's great. It's an impressively modern step forward for Volvo and it's a car that's really easy to appreciate.
However, drive it back-to-back and neck-to-neck against models as established such as the 5 Series and the GS, and you'll begin to find its flaws. For one, its similarly sized 2.0-litre turbo powertrain is a slight letdown. The Volvo loses out in power delivery to BMW and in creaminess to Lexus. It's got a powerful engine, the most powerful one here, but once you start pushing hard up the revs, it becomes coarse and produces a rather unpleasant note.
Standard active safety systems are the S90's saving grace
The S90 also doesn't breakdance like the 5er or perform a silent ballet like the GS around a bend. Instead, it's good for its active safety.
It helps to do most of your highway driving, thanks to features such as Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Aid.
Beeming with pride
So we return to the question of whether the new BMW 5 Series is able to continue the legacy of its predecessor and stay ahead of the executive sedan pack. The answer is yes. It just faces stronger competition today.
Once again the class leader, the new BMW 5 Series proves to be a tough cookie to beat
It may not be as lush as a Lexus but it surely scratches the itch for modernity and sportiness.
At time of writing, the $296,800 5er is relatively expensive compared to the $266,000 GS Turbo GS200t and the $230,000 S90 T5 Momentum, but undoubtably, you're paying a premium for something quite special. It's taken everything great about the old car, made significant improvements, and then some.
However, drive it back-to-back and neck-to-neck against models as established such as the 5 Series and the GS, and you'll begin to find its flaws. For one, its similarly sized 2.0-litre turbo powertrain is a slight letdown. The Volvo loses out in power delivery to BMW and in creaminess to Lexus. It's got a powerful engine, the most powerful one here, but once you start pushing hard up the revs, it becomes coarse and produces a rather unpleasant note.
The S90 also doesn't breakdance like the 5er or perform a silent ballet like the GS around a bend. Instead, it's good for its active safety.
It helps to do most of your highway driving, thanks to features such as Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Aid.
Beeming with pride
So we return to the question of whether the new BMW 5 Series is able to continue the legacy of its predecessor and stay ahead of the executive sedan pack. The answer is yes. It just faces stronger competition today.
It may not be as lush as a Lexus but it surely scratches the itch for modernity and sportiness.
At time of writing, the $296,800 5er is relatively expensive compared to the $266,000 GS Turbo GS200t and the $230,000 S90 T5 Momentum, but undoubtably, you're paying a premium for something quite special. It's taken everything great about the old car, made significant improvements, and then some.
BMW 5 Series
Sportiest styling
Most driver-centric and stylish cabin
Best for people who love driving
Lexus GS Turbo
Dated exterior and interior compared to the BMW and Volvo
Most soothing to be in
Very comfortable to drive
Volvo S90
Cleanest design inside and out
Most standard active safety systems
Lacks the refinement of BMW and Lexus
In the corporate world of hot shots in suits and ties, it's a daily dance of politics and brown-nosing to fight your way to the top. It's a highly competitive environment not made for everyone, but those who manage to pay the piper do reap satisfying rewards such as the financial capacity to own more expensive cars, which bespeaks one's achievements and lifestyle.
This brings us to the topic of executive sedans.
Like the corporate combat zones of men and women who own them, executive sedans, too, struggle in a dog-eat-dog world. Every now and then, new technologies and designs one-up a brand and leave its competitors in the dust. The latest model to re-enter the boxing ring is the new BMW 5 Series, the poster boy of high-ranking managerial types.
The outgoing F10 model set the benchmark in terms of global sales, having sold over two million units worldwide. Sporting a brand new design and features found on the larger 7 Series, the new BMW 5 Series aims to continue the German marque's glorious sales record.
Can this new iteration continue the model's legacy? We put a 5 Series 530i M Sport up against a Jap and a Swede - the highly refined Lexus GS Turbo GS200t and the tech-packed Volvo S90 T5 - to find out.
Presence
With executive sedans, design is a big deal. Buyers want a car that can project the right image - a car that's imposing, sophisticated and reasonably stylish.
In this aspect, the BMW is the best representation of the aforementioned elements, thanks in part to several 7 Series design cues, which exude athleticism, luxury and elegance. Compared to the previous generation, the design of the new 5 Series is more refined, more premium, yet just as sporty, if not even sportier.
The Lexus, although more fashionable than before, lacks the sophistication and road presence of the BMW. On top of that, its hawkish front end might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Likewise for Volvo, whose designers have chosen a very clean, reserved design, the S90 doesn't have enough dramatic beauty for uptown tastes.
This brings us to the topic of executive sedans.
Like the corporate combat zones of men and women who own them, executive sedans, too, struggle in a dog-eat-dog world. Every now and then, new technologies and designs one-up a brand and leave its competitors in the dust. The latest model to re-enter the boxing ring is the new BMW 5 Series, the poster boy of high-ranking managerial types.
The outgoing F10 model set the benchmark in terms of global sales, having sold over two million units worldwide. Sporting a brand new design and features found on the larger 7 Series, the new BMW 5 Series aims to continue the German marque's glorious sales record.
Can this new iteration continue the model's legacy? We put a 5 Series 530i M Sport up against a Jap and a Swede - the highly refined Lexus GS Turbo GS200t and the tech-packed Volvo S90 T5 - to find out.
Presence
With executive sedans, design is a big deal. Buyers want a car that can project the right image - a car that's imposing, sophisticated and reasonably stylish.
In this aspect, the BMW is the best representation of the aforementioned elements, thanks in part to several 7 Series design cues, which exude athleticism, luxury and elegance. Compared to the previous generation, the design of the new 5 Series is more refined, more premium, yet just as sporty, if not even sportier.
The Lexus, although more fashionable than before, lacks the sophistication and road presence of the BMW. On top of that, its hawkish front end might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Likewise for Volvo, whose designers have chosen a very clean, reserved design, the S90 doesn't have enough dramatic beauty for uptown tastes.
That's not to say the car isn't beautiful because compared to Volvos of old, this one's considered quite an eyeful.
Creature comforts
Inside, it's BMW and Lexus country. The 5 Series' cabin design is a welcoming evolution of past models, meaning ergonomics and materials used rank high. The updated iDrive infotainment system is the most uncomplicated one in this test and the car's seating position is also the most driver-focused. At the same time, cushy leather trims ensure your knees and elbows stay comfortable.
From the driver's seat, the cabin is almost indistinguishable from the latest 7 Series and that's saying a lot.
The GS doesn't have the most modern cabin design and the mouse-like control of its infotainment system isn't quite as user-friendly as we'd hoped. That said, the carmaker customarily boast enticingly crafted interiors with comfort to match, and the GS Turbo is no exception.
Luxury is, after all, the Japanese premium marque's strongsuit, hence the GS Turbo's top-notch interior comes as no surprise. It's also the quietest car to be in with regards to this group test.
For drivers who love tech and minimalism, the Volvo's cabin should be a favourite. In the central console is a stylish 9.0-inch iPad-style touchscreen infotainment system that's a beauty to behold. However, it's not as easy to operate or intuitive as BMW's iDrive.
Creature comforts
Inside, it's BMW and Lexus country. The 5 Series' cabin design is a welcoming evolution of past models, meaning ergonomics and materials used rank high. The updated iDrive infotainment system is the most uncomplicated one in this test and the car's seating position is also the most driver-focused. At the same time, cushy leather trims ensure your knees and elbows stay comfortable.
From the driver's seat, the cabin is almost indistinguishable from the latest 7 Series and that's saying a lot.
The GS doesn't have the most modern cabin design and the mouse-like control of its infotainment system isn't quite as user-friendly as we'd hoped. That said, the carmaker customarily boast enticingly crafted interiors with comfort to match, and the GS Turbo is no exception.
Luxury is, after all, the Japanese premium marque's strongsuit, hence the GS Turbo's top-notch interior comes as no surprise. It's also the quietest car to be in with regards to this group test.
For drivers who love tech and minimalism, the Volvo's cabin should be a favourite. In the central console is a stylish 9.0-inch iPad-style touchscreen infotainment system that's a beauty to behold. However, it's not as easy to operate or intuitive as BMW's iDrive.
The S90's got the cleanest cabin layout and the Swedish manufacturer has improved on refinement and luxury levels but surely, Volvo has a bit more catching up to do to match the overall creature comforts of BMW and Lexus.
At 530 litres, the 5 Series' trunk also lets you pack a bag or two more compared to the GS Turbo's 520 litres and the S90's 500 litres.
Pace and grace
Executive sedans are cars that are likely to be driven a fair bit, considering the owners have busy schedules - business meetings, taking the kids to and from school, dinner appointments and family outings. Hence, it pays to have a car that's actually a pleasure to drive.
However, different people perceive driving pleasure differently. Some really enjoy driving dynamics; some want nothing but peace and quiet, while others bask in the glory (and peace of mind) of modern safety technology.
For the first group of people, the 5er is hands down the car to have. It has the most well-tuned powertrain, comprising of a turbo four-pot engine that's capable of churning 248bhp and 350Nm of torque.
It's slightly down on power compared to the S90's 254bhp one, but is the fastest car of the three from 0-100km/h, taking just 6.2 seconds. The S90 comes in a close second at 6.8 seconds while the GS Turbo takes 7.3 seconds.
But it's not just it's drag racing abilities that set the 5er way ahead of the competition in terms of driving pleasure. It delivers its power in an incredibly linear fashion, providing hasty throttle response and more impressively, sharper steering reaction.
Its dynamic capabilities truly belie its size and in its class and in this respect, the BMW is unrivalled.
Where the GS Turbo excels is in the tranquillity department. It's got the quietest powertrain, albeit not as powerful as the two Europeans. Its trump card is comfort, and is the most relaxing car to pilot in this test.
At 530 litres, the 5 Series' trunk also lets you pack a bag or two more compared to the GS Turbo's 520 litres and the S90's 500 litres.
Pace and grace
Executive sedans are cars that are likely to be driven a fair bit, considering the owners have busy schedules - business meetings, taking the kids to and from school, dinner appointments and family outings. Hence, it pays to have a car that's actually a pleasure to drive.
However, different people perceive driving pleasure differently. Some really enjoy driving dynamics; some want nothing but peace and quiet, while others bask in the glory (and peace of mind) of modern safety technology.
For the first group of people, the 5er is hands down the car to have. It has the most well-tuned powertrain, comprising of a turbo four-pot engine that's capable of churning 248bhp and 350Nm of torque.
It's slightly down on power compared to the S90's 254bhp one, but is the fastest car of the three from 0-100km/h, taking just 6.2 seconds. The S90 comes in a close second at 6.8 seconds while the GS Turbo takes 7.3 seconds.
But it's not just it's drag racing abilities that set the 5er way ahead of the competition in terms of driving pleasure. It delivers its power in an incredibly linear fashion, providing hasty throttle response and more impressively, sharper steering reaction.
Its dynamic capabilities truly belie its size and in its class and in this respect, the BMW is unrivalled.
Where the GS Turbo excels is in the tranquillity department. It's got the quietest powertrain, albeit not as powerful as the two Europeans. Its trump card is comfort, and is the most relaxing car to pilot in this test.
The S90 is the trickier car to decipher. On its own, it's great. It's an impressively modern step forward for Volvo and it's a car that's really easy to appreciate.
However, drive it back-to-back and neck-to-neck against models as established such as the 5 Series and the GS, and you'll begin to find its flaws. For one, its similarly sized 2.0-litre turbo powertrain is a slight letdown. The Volvo loses out in power delivery to BMW and in creaminess to Lexus. It's got a powerful engine, the most powerful one here, but once you start pushing hard up the revs, it becomes coarse and produces a rather unpleasant note.
The S90 also doesn't breakdance like the 5er or perform a silent ballet like the GS around a bend. Instead, it's good for its active safety.
It helps to do most of your highway driving, thanks to features such as Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Aid.
Beeming with pride
So we return to the question of whether the new BMW 5 Series is able to continue the legacy of its predecessor and stay ahead of the executive sedan pack. The answer is yes. It just faces stronger competition today.
It may not be as lush as a Lexus but it surely scratches the itch for modernity and sportiness.
At time of writing, the $296,800 5er is relatively expensive compared to the $266,000 GS Turbo GS200t and the $230,000 S90 T5 Momentum, but undoubtably, you're paying a premium for something quite special. It's taken everything great about the old car, made significant improvements, and then some.
However, drive it back-to-back and neck-to-neck against models as established such as the 5 Series and the GS, and you'll begin to find its flaws. For one, its similarly sized 2.0-litre turbo powertrain is a slight letdown. The Volvo loses out in power delivery to BMW and in creaminess to Lexus. It's got a powerful engine, the most powerful one here, but once you start pushing hard up the revs, it becomes coarse and produces a rather unpleasant note.
The S90 also doesn't breakdance like the 5er or perform a silent ballet like the GS around a bend. Instead, it's good for its active safety.
It helps to do most of your highway driving, thanks to features such as Pilot Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Aid.
Beeming with pride
So we return to the question of whether the new BMW 5 Series is able to continue the legacy of its predecessor and stay ahead of the executive sedan pack. The answer is yes. It just faces stronger competition today.
It may not be as lush as a Lexus but it surely scratches the itch for modernity and sportiness.
At time of writing, the $296,800 5er is relatively expensive compared to the $266,000 GS Turbo GS200t and the $230,000 S90 T5 Momentum, but undoubtably, you're paying a premium for something quite special. It's taken everything great about the old car, made significant improvements, and then some.
Photos by Low Fai Ming
Car Information
Lexus GS 300 2.0 Luxury (A)
CAT B|Petrol|12.5km/L
Horsepower
180kW (241 bhp)
Torque
350 Nm
Acceleration
7.3sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Lexus GS 300Volvo S90 T5 Momentum (A)
CAT B|Petrol|14.9km/L
Horsepower
186kW (250 bhp)
Torque
350 Nm
Acceleration
6.8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Volvo S90BMW 5 Series Sedan 530i M Sport (A)
CAT B|Petrol|16.1km/L
Horsepower
185kW (248 bhp)
Torque
350 Nm
Acceleration
6.2sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used BMW 5 Series Sedan
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