Alongside the 530e, BMW Malaysia has also released the 5 Series 530i M Sport, which essentially is the pure-petrol version of the PHEV. The differences between the two 5 Series aren’t just limited to the powertrain and price; there are other things to talk about.
Starting with the similarities first, both cars come complete with the M Aerodynamics package, larger kidney grilles and DRL design. The taillights are the same, and so are the wheels, brakes, exhaust tips and active driver aids. You can also expect the interior to be equally decked out with an M leather steering wheel, sport seats and finishing.
The first thing that sets these cars apart is headlights. The 530i lights up the road with BMW Laser light, and as with the 530e, comes equipped with the anti-glare BMW Selective Beam. While the overall outlook is similar, the 530i is framed by the BMW Individual Exterior Line Aluminium Satinated.
Power comes from a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 252hp and 350Nm. Mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, the 530i launches to 100kph from zero in 6.4 seconds and up to 250kph. Fuel economy is rated at 6.7 litres per 100km and emits 154g of CO2 per kilometre.
Inside, the 530i has an electrical glass roof feature for additional lighting. Also, only for the 530i are the BMW Gesture Control, Head-Up Display, BMW Display Key, and Harman Kardon surround sound system. Although Driving Assistance and Parking Assistant Plus are standard on both vehicles, the 530i has Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function.
The BMW 530i M Sport is the more expensive of the two, coming in at RM396,000.00 on-the-road without insurance. And it is packaged with the BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme. And like the 530e, you can also register for one online.
With price being no factor, now you have two 5 Series to choose from. Will you go for the more powerful and fuel-saving 530e? Or will you drive the 530i just to show your friends that you can control the display with a wave of your hand like magic?
