In order to appeal to the differentiated consumers, carmakers churn out new variants of their existing models. A more macro view on the topic may lean towards that of increasing sales volume; or to acquire a bigger share of the pie so as to speak.
But while firms are strenuously trying to increase the number of offerings in their lineup, it comes a point that the competition is not limited to that from their rivals, but also within themselves. For instance, instead of garnering more sales from a new model, there may have been a case of sibling rivalry – as we find out from the ActiveHybrid 5 – the first BMW hybrid to go on sale in Singapore.Exterior
Based on the 535i, the ‘green bimmer’ does not differ much in terms of aesthetics. There are bold displays of the hybrid badges around the car, with the most oblivion to initial glares from those on the C-pillars. Up front, one may also notice the galvanised grille (compared to the chromed ones on the 535i). Look deeper and it is not hard to discover the louvers tugged behind the grilles, which are the results from some serious aerodynamic studies.
But while firms are strenuously trying to increase the number of offerings in their lineup, it comes a point that the competition is not limited to that from their rivals, but also within themselves. For instance, instead of garnering more sales from a new model, there may have been a case of sibling rivalry – as we find out from the ActiveHybrid 5 – the first BMW hybrid to go on sale in Singapore.Exterior
Based on the 535i, the ‘green bimmer’ does not differ much in terms of aesthetics. There are bold displays of the hybrid badges around the car, with the most oblivion to initial glares from those on the C-pillars. Up front, one may also notice the galvanised grille (compared to the chromed ones on the 535i). Look deeper and it is not hard to discover the louvers tugged behind the grilles, which are the results from some serious aerodynamic studies.
The rims, too, mark this as a special offering – the 17-inch alloys feature special ‘streamline’ spokes in the aim of improving the aero efficiency of car. Looking modest in the sizeable arches, it is a compromise that eco-friendly individuals have to make, doing without those in larger dimensions which would have given the sedan a more purposeful stance.
Interior
As part of 5 Series lineup, the ActiveHybrid 5’s interior does not fall short of expectations. In fact, other than the battery indicator on the driver’s console, the car inherits all that is in the petrol-driven siblings.
On closer look though, it reveals that the hybrid does without the switch for the auto start/stop system, which used to be conveniently located beside the engine ignition button. Nonetheless, it serves a reminder of its ‘greener’ motives, though it means that one will have to get used to the perpetual shimmers by the re-firing engine.
With the battery pack situated behind the rear seats, rear occupants will still enjoy the plush and serenade quarters with ample allowances all-round. Though the boot space may have been compromised, it will still suffice for everyday hauling.
As part of 5 Series lineup, the ActiveHybrid 5’s interior does not fall short of expectations. In fact, other than the battery indicator on the driver’s console, the car inherits all that is in the petrol-driven siblings.
On closer look though, it reveals that the hybrid does without the switch for the auto start/stop system, which used to be conveniently located beside the engine ignition button. Nonetheless, it serves a reminder of its ‘greener’ motives, though it means that one will have to get used to the perpetual shimmers by the re-firing engine.
With the battery pack situated behind the rear seats, rear occupants will still enjoy the plush and serenade quarters with ample allowances all-round. Though the boot space may have been compromised, it will still suffice for everyday hauling.
Comfort access allows the boot to be opened with a swing of your feet underneath the rear bumper – just like those found on the 3 Series we sampled earlier - the system works intuitively on the ActiveHybrid 5.
The Drive
Thanks to the electric motor that is housed between the rear wheels, the ActiveHybrid 5 puts out 34bhp and 50Nm more than the 535i that it is based on. Although the gain in power has been diminished by a hefty 220kg increment in weight, the hybrid feels adeptly quick on the straights, launching from standstills with respectable grace.
Harnessing the power from the twin sources is the firm’s 8-speed Sport automatic transmission, which is more than up to the job on our local roads with ample ratios to work with. The choice of a proper automatic also account for a more engaging drive, not to mention doing without the whine of the more popular CVT gearbox, adding merit to the overall experience.
The hybrid boasts the usual traits of a 5 Series, handling just like a proper sports sedan. Standard on the ActiveHybrid 5 is also BMW’s Dynamic Damper Control, which allows individuals to alter the chassis response to suit different terrain or driving style. Worth mentioning is the Comfort Plus mode, which does wonders in taking imperfections on the tarmac well within its stride.
Thanks to the electric motor that is housed between the rear wheels, the ActiveHybrid 5 puts out 34bhp and 50Nm more than the 535i that it is based on. Although the gain in power has been diminished by a hefty 220kg increment in weight, the hybrid feels adeptly quick on the straights, launching from standstills with respectable grace.
Harnessing the power from the twin sources is the firm’s 8-speed Sport automatic transmission, which is more than up to the job on our local roads with ample ratios to work with. The choice of a proper automatic also account for a more engaging drive, not to mention doing without the whine of the more popular CVT gearbox, adding merit to the overall experience.
The hybrid boasts the usual traits of a 5 Series, handling just like a proper sports sedan. Standard on the ActiveHybrid 5 is also BMW’s Dynamic Damper Control, which allows individuals to alter the chassis response to suit different terrain or driving style. Worth mentioning is the Comfort Plus mode, which does wonders in taking imperfections on the tarmac well within its stride.
Potting around town, the judders caused by the switching between the electric and petrol drivetrain becomes more evident; whereas the more matured rivals like those from Lexus does it in a more seamless manner. The test drive too reveals a fuel economy figure closer to 9L/100km with a mixture of city and highway driving, versus the claimed 6.4 on paper which is rather distant.
Conclusion
With the ActiveHybrid 5, it seems that BMW has a relatively different interpretation of how a hybrid should be. Personally, the car feels more tipped towards performance enhancement than a pure go-green option.
Besides being a rounded performer in terms of fuel efficiency and power, the car is also better in value on local shores. Based on the current green rebate, the ActiveHybrid 5 enjoys 40% off its ARF (additional registration fee), which brings close to $18,000 savings over the 535i. More power, better fuel economy, yet comes with a lesser price tag – we reckon this is as good it gets.
Conclusion
With the ActiveHybrid 5, it seems that BMW has a relatively different interpretation of how a hybrid should be. Personally, the car feels more tipped towards performance enhancement than a pure go-green option.
Besides being a rounded performer in terms of fuel efficiency and power, the car is also better in value on local shores. Based on the current green rebate, the ActiveHybrid 5 enjoys 40% off its ARF (additional registration fee), which brings close to $18,000 savings over the 535i. More power, better fuel economy, yet comes with a lesser price tag – we reckon this is as good it gets.
