BMW 5 Series Sedan 528i (A) Review
16 Feb 2012|46,791 views
Since the first 5 Series manufactured in 1972, the executive sedan represented a significant percentage of BMW's profits, although the 3 Series retains to be the Bavarian carmaker's best-selling model. But it wasn't until the fourth generation of 5 Series, codenamed E39, when the car was widely praised in all aspects, making the mid-sized sedan one of BMWs most successful cars. To date, the 5 Series has a total of six generations, all sold in both sedan as well as touring body styles.
Today, to say that BMW gives the utmost attention on sustainability by packing its cars layer upon layer with efficiency to form a premium car without compromising on sheer driving pleasure is an understatement. And this can be seen with BMW's downsized 5 Series Sedan 528i. From smaller four-cylinder engines to hybrid or electric power, downsizing is the new "big" among luxury cars - mainly because of new environmental regulations that have forced luxury carmakers to work on a new set of values: smaller and more fuel-efficient.
So BMW has taken the leap of bringing in a new 2.0-litre turbo four with the key aim of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Unlike the 520i which supersedes the 523i, the 528i is a standalone. Perhaps the Bavarian marque is among the growing number of carmakers that thinks it's time to stop judging engines by the number of cylinders they have. And this latest 5er shows it on paper. Just a glance at the 528i's specs and you'll immediately realise how promising the turbo four is in terms of its output.
Exterior
Visually, the entire sheet metal is still clean and chiselled. The 528i resembles the rest of its 5er siblings, with its prominent flanks and kidney grille that couldn't possibly be mistaken for anything but a Bimmer.
Today, to say that BMW gives the utmost attention on sustainability by packing its cars layer upon layer with efficiency to form a premium car without compromising on sheer driving pleasure is an understatement. And this can be seen with BMW's downsized 5 Series Sedan 528i. From smaller four-cylinder engines to hybrid or electric power, downsizing is the new "big" among luxury cars - mainly because of new environmental regulations that have forced luxury carmakers to work on a new set of values: smaller and more fuel-efficient.
So BMW has taken the leap of bringing in a new 2.0-litre turbo four with the key aim of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Unlike the 520i which supersedes the 523i, the 528i is a standalone. Perhaps the Bavarian marque is among the growing number of carmakers that thinks it's time to stop judging engines by the number of cylinders they have. And this latest 5er shows it on paper. Just a glance at the 528i's specs and you'll immediately realise how promising the turbo four is in terms of its output.
Exterior
Visually, the entire sheet metal is still clean and chiselled. The 528i resembles the rest of its 5er siblings, with its prominent flanks and kidney grille that couldn't possibly be mistaken for anything but a Bimmer.
To simply put it, there is a reassuring classicism in the artfully shaped cut lines that are part of the graphic composition. Flowing lines with long hood and short rear deck, and a futuristic-looking front-end treatment all add up to form a car that's big without appearing too bulky.
Measuring at 4899mm x 2094mm x 1464mm (L x W x H), the Bavarian product is a tad heavy, and is noticeably heavier than the Audi A6 as well as the Saab 9-5. Tip to tip, it is also taller than the A6 but just not as long as its German peer.
Despite having different body styles and engines since the 5 Series Sedan was launched here in 2010, the car has successfully managed to retain its visual engagement such as the delightful lush psychedelic white Corona daytime running rings that shine so joyfully they border on maniacal. Its delicate and uncluttered lines, following curves and sophisticated detailing give the car an aura of athleticism that is unrivalled.
To a certain extent, BMW has found a sweet spot for the sedan and has made a wise decision on keeping a good thing. To put it in a practical perspective, if you launch a new car that is radically different to the rest of its siblings, you are tacitly implying that that it was so flawed that it needed a total rethink - telling the existing customer that he was a fool to buy the outgoing model. BMW was making no such mistake. This might just be the reason why the number of 5 Series on the road has been driving North.
Interior
However, before you consider the possibility that downsizing will dwell on a shabbily equipped Bimmer, consider again. The interior reflects the usual high level of design sophistication, exuding a sense of opulence and quality, where form meets function in harmony and beauty. More importantly, the cabin remains to be a driver-friendly place, with excellent visibility and ample space all round that ensures that comfort is the royal order of the day.
Unlike the its new younger brethren, the 528i is wrapped in fine-wood trimmings and equipped with Soft-Close function for doors, reminding you that this downsized car doesn't exactly lose out to its costlier clones. This smaller but no less powerful machine is thus comparatively cheaper too, costing over $50,000 lesser than the six-cylinder 535i in Singapore.
In fact at 15.4km/L, the BMW 528i is the second most pump-saving car at the moment (520i being the thriftiest at 15.6km/L), giving indications that the brand is targeting the more conserving customers with the downsized model.
Interior
However, before you consider the possibility that downsizing will dwell on a shabbily equipped Bimmer, consider again. The interior reflects the usual high level of design sophistication, exuding a sense of opulence and quality, where form meets function in harmony and beauty. More importantly, the cabin remains to be a driver-friendly place, with excellent visibility and ample space all round that ensures that comfort is the royal order of the day.
Unlike the its new younger brethren, the 528i is wrapped in fine-wood trimmings and equipped with Soft-Close function for doors, reminding you that this downsized car doesn't exactly lose out to its costlier clones. This smaller but no less powerful machine is thus comparatively cheaper too, costing over $50,000 lesser than the six-cylinder 535i in Singapore.
In fact at 15.4km/L, the BMW 528i is the second most pump-saving car at the moment (520i being the thriftiest at 15.6km/L), giving indications that the brand is targeting the more conserving customers with the downsized model.
The Drive
On the go, the 2.0-litre powerplant is strong from launch. The turbo four may not have a strong pull in the low end but as the revs build, the car is satisfyingly fast, enabling it to complete the century sprint in 6.3 seconds - mere milliseconds slower than the 535i. Its 245bhp will almost guarantee you an effortless time behind the wheel. Plus, with drivers being able to choose from imperceptible eight gear ratios, the car is able to slot into a suitable gear for acceleration at any speed.
More relevantly, it has plenty of usable torque around town. The 350Nm is felt almost immediately, and is evident throughout the rev band. That's not to say that the 528i isn't refined. Despite the 18-inch wheels, it is more than capable of delivering the goods in a comfortable progress, soaking up even the most uneven tarmac surfaces in a composed and fuss-free manner.
Round the corners, the 528i remains as sharp and precise as expected from the Bavarian carmaker. Granted that the steering could do with more feedback at higher speeds, the car surprisingly hides its roll well while providing ample grip through the curves.
Perhaps the only complain about the turbo four is its lack of natural ability to match the in-line six's exhaust wail when extended. Instead, it sounds more in line with what a buyer of a four cylinder BMW 5 Series would come to expect.
On the go, the 2.0-litre powerplant is strong from launch. The turbo four may not have a strong pull in the low end but as the revs build, the car is satisfyingly fast, enabling it to complete the century sprint in 6.3 seconds - mere milliseconds slower than the 535i. Its 245bhp will almost guarantee you an effortless time behind the wheel. Plus, with drivers being able to choose from imperceptible eight gear ratios, the car is able to slot into a suitable gear for acceleration at any speed.
More relevantly, it has plenty of usable torque around town. The 350Nm is felt almost immediately, and is evident throughout the rev band. That's not to say that the 528i isn't refined. Despite the 18-inch wheels, it is more than capable of delivering the goods in a comfortable progress, soaking up even the most uneven tarmac surfaces in a composed and fuss-free manner.
Round the corners, the 528i remains as sharp and precise as expected from the Bavarian carmaker. Granted that the steering could do with more feedback at higher speeds, the car surprisingly hides its roll well while providing ample grip through the curves.
Perhaps the only complain about the turbo four is its lack of natural ability to match the in-line six's exhaust wail when extended. Instead, it sounds more in line with what a buyer of a four cylinder BMW 5 Series would come to expect.
Conclusion
All in all, the 528i's engine is not only optimised for performance but also efficiency. Even the model badge on the rear sheet metal serves as a visualisation of BMW's mission - reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption across their entire fleet.
After so many decades, the BMW 5er remains to be one of the most capable mid-sized sedans in its own right. With its achievements such as its impressive new powerplant and all-round driving abilities in place, you're in for a treat.
All in all, the 528i's engine is not only optimised for performance but also efficiency. Even the model badge on the rear sheet metal serves as a visualisation of BMW's mission - reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption across their entire fleet.
After so many decades, the BMW 5er remains to be one of the most capable mid-sized sedans in its own right. With its achievements such as its impressive new powerplant and all-round driving abilities in place, you're in for a treat.
Since the first 5 Series manufactured in 1972, the executive sedan represented a significant percentage of BMW's profits, although the 3 Series retains to be the Bavarian carmaker's best-selling model. But it wasn't until the fourth generation of 5 Series, codenamed E39, when the car was widely praised in all aspects, making the mid-sized sedan one of BMWs most successful cars. To date, the 5 Series has a total of six generations, all sold in both sedan as well as touring body styles.
Today, to say that BMW gives the utmost attention on sustainability by packing its cars layer upon layer with efficiency to form a premium car without compromising on sheer driving pleasure is an understatement. And this can be seen with BMW's downsized 5 Series Sedan 528i. From smaller four-cylinder engines to hybrid or electric power, downsizing is the new "big" among luxury cars - mainly because of new environmental regulations that have forced luxury carmakers to work on a new set of values: smaller and more fuel-efficient.
So BMW has taken the leap of bringing in a new 2.0-litre turbo four with the key aim of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Unlike the 520i which supersedes the 523i, the 528i is a standalone. Perhaps the Bavarian marque is among the growing number of carmakers that thinks it's time to stop judging engines by the number of cylinders they have. And this latest 5er shows it on paper. Just a glance at the 528i's specs and you'll immediately realise how promising the turbo four is in terms of its output.
Exterior
Visually, the entire sheet metal is still clean and chiselled. The 528i resembles the rest of its 5er siblings, with its prominent flanks and kidney grille that couldn't possibly be mistaken for anything but a Bimmer.
Today, to say that BMW gives the utmost attention on sustainability by packing its cars layer upon layer with efficiency to form a premium car without compromising on sheer driving pleasure is an understatement. And this can be seen with BMW's downsized 5 Series Sedan 528i. From smaller four-cylinder engines to hybrid or electric power, downsizing is the new "big" among luxury cars - mainly because of new environmental regulations that have forced luxury carmakers to work on a new set of values: smaller and more fuel-efficient.
So BMW has taken the leap of bringing in a new 2.0-litre turbo four with the key aim of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Unlike the 520i which supersedes the 523i, the 528i is a standalone. Perhaps the Bavarian marque is among the growing number of carmakers that thinks it's time to stop judging engines by the number of cylinders they have. And this latest 5er shows it on paper. Just a glance at the 528i's specs and you'll immediately realise how promising the turbo four is in terms of its output.
Exterior
Visually, the entire sheet metal is still clean and chiselled. The 528i resembles the rest of its 5er siblings, with its prominent flanks and kidney grille that couldn't possibly be mistaken for anything but a Bimmer.
To simply put it, there is a reassuring classicism in the artfully shaped cut lines that are part of the graphic composition. Flowing lines with long hood and short rear deck, and a futuristic-looking front-end treatment all add up to form a car that's big without appearing too bulky.
Measuring at 4899mm x 2094mm x 1464mm (L x W x H), the Bavarian product is a tad heavy, and is noticeably heavier than the Audi A6 as well as the Saab 9-5. Tip to tip, it is also taller than the A6 but just not as long as its German peer.
Despite having different body styles and engines since the 5 Series Sedan was launched here in 2010, the car has successfully managed to retain its visual engagement such as the delightful lush psychedelic white Corona daytime running rings that shine so joyfully they border on maniacal. Its delicate and uncluttered lines, following curves and sophisticated detailing give the car an aura of athleticism that is unrivalled.
To a certain extent, BMW has found a sweet spot for the sedan and has made a wise decision on keeping a good thing. To put it in a practical perspective, if you launch a new car that is radically different to the rest of its siblings, you are tacitly implying that that it was so flawed that it needed a total rethink - telling the existing customer that he was a fool to buy the outgoing model. BMW was making no such mistake. This might just be the reason why the number of 5 Series on the road has been driving North.
Interior
However, before you consider the possibility that downsizing will dwell on a shabbily equipped Bimmer, consider again. The interior reflects the usual high level of design sophistication, exuding a sense of opulence and quality, where form meets function in harmony and beauty. More importantly, the cabin remains to be a driver-friendly place, with excellent visibility and ample space all round that ensures that comfort is the royal order of the day.
Unlike the its new younger brethren, the 528i is wrapped in fine-wood trimmings and equipped with Soft-Close function for doors, reminding you that this downsized car doesn't exactly lose out to its costlier clones. This smaller but no less powerful machine is thus comparatively cheaper too, costing over $50,000 lesser than the six-cylinder 535i in Singapore.
In fact at 15.4km/L, the BMW 528i is the second most pump-saving car at the moment (520i being the thriftiest at 15.6km/L), giving indications that the brand is targeting the more conserving customers with the downsized model.
Interior
However, before you consider the possibility that downsizing will dwell on a shabbily equipped Bimmer, consider again. The interior reflects the usual high level of design sophistication, exuding a sense of opulence and quality, where form meets function in harmony and beauty. More importantly, the cabin remains to be a driver-friendly place, with excellent visibility and ample space all round that ensures that comfort is the royal order of the day.
Unlike the its new younger brethren, the 528i is wrapped in fine-wood trimmings and equipped with Soft-Close function for doors, reminding you that this downsized car doesn't exactly lose out to its costlier clones. This smaller but no less powerful machine is thus comparatively cheaper too, costing over $50,000 lesser than the six-cylinder 535i in Singapore.
In fact at 15.4km/L, the BMW 528i is the second most pump-saving car at the moment (520i being the thriftiest at 15.6km/L), giving indications that the brand is targeting the more conserving customers with the downsized model.
The Drive
On the go, the 2.0-litre powerplant is strong from launch. The turbo four may not have a strong pull in the low end but as the revs build, the car is satisfyingly fast, enabling it to complete the century sprint in 6.3 seconds - mere milliseconds slower than the 535i. Its 245bhp will almost guarantee you an effortless time behind the wheel. Plus, with drivers being able to choose from imperceptible eight gear ratios, the car is able to slot into a suitable gear for acceleration at any speed.
More relevantly, it has plenty of usable torque around town. The 350Nm is felt almost immediately, and is evident throughout the rev band. That's not to say that the 528i isn't refined. Despite the 18-inch wheels, it is more than capable of delivering the goods in a comfortable progress, soaking up even the most uneven tarmac surfaces in a composed and fuss-free manner.
Round the corners, the 528i remains as sharp and precise as expected from the Bavarian carmaker. Granted that the steering could do with more feedback at higher speeds, the car surprisingly hides its roll well while providing ample grip through the curves.
Perhaps the only complain about the turbo four is its lack of natural ability to match the in-line six's exhaust wail when extended. Instead, it sounds more in line with what a buyer of a four cylinder BMW 5 Series would come to expect.
On the go, the 2.0-litre powerplant is strong from launch. The turbo four may not have a strong pull in the low end but as the revs build, the car is satisfyingly fast, enabling it to complete the century sprint in 6.3 seconds - mere milliseconds slower than the 535i. Its 245bhp will almost guarantee you an effortless time behind the wheel. Plus, with drivers being able to choose from imperceptible eight gear ratios, the car is able to slot into a suitable gear for acceleration at any speed.
More relevantly, it has plenty of usable torque around town. The 350Nm is felt almost immediately, and is evident throughout the rev band. That's not to say that the 528i isn't refined. Despite the 18-inch wheels, it is more than capable of delivering the goods in a comfortable progress, soaking up even the most uneven tarmac surfaces in a composed and fuss-free manner.
Round the corners, the 528i remains as sharp and precise as expected from the Bavarian carmaker. Granted that the steering could do with more feedback at higher speeds, the car surprisingly hides its roll well while providing ample grip through the curves.
Perhaps the only complain about the turbo four is its lack of natural ability to match the in-line six's exhaust wail when extended. Instead, it sounds more in line with what a buyer of a four cylinder BMW 5 Series would come to expect.
Conclusion
All in all, the 528i's engine is not only optimised for performance but also efficiency. Even the model badge on the rear sheet metal serves as a visualisation of BMW's mission - reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption across their entire fleet.
After so many decades, the BMW 5er remains to be one of the most capable mid-sized sedans in its own right. With its achievements such as its impressive new powerplant and all-round driving abilities in place, you're in for a treat.
All in all, the 528i's engine is not only optimised for performance but also efficiency. Even the model badge on the rear sheet metal serves as a visualisation of BMW's mission - reduced CO2 emissions and fuel consumption across their entire fleet.
After so many decades, the BMW 5er remains to be one of the most capable mid-sized sedans in its own right. With its achievements such as its impressive new powerplant and all-round driving abilities in place, you're in for a treat.
Also read our comparison article on:
BMW 5 Series 528i vs Jaguar XF 2.0 vs Lexus GS Turbo 2.0Car Information
BMW 5 Series Sedan 528i (A)
CAT B|Petrol|15.3km/L
Horsepower
183kW (245 bhp)
Torque
350 Nm
Acceleration
6.2sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
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