2016 BMW 5 Series Complete Buying Guide
In the automotive industry, BMW is known for its innovations. In 2013, BMW introduced the first electric car in the world, the BMW i3 and remains a leader in developing hybrid powertrains and advanced driving assistance systems. While they endeavor to evolve their vehicles with the latest technology and design, German car makers always want to give the buyer the best product that embodies the world-famous German car making tradition.
The 2016 BMW 5 Series is a unique blend of a comfortable business sedan car and equipment options. It offers dynamic driving characteristics supported by a powerful engine and balanced coordinated suspensions. For example, compared to diesel engines, BMW 5 Series petrol models experience less problems. Studies show that they have a fault rate of 15% compared to 20% for diesel models. In addition, in terms of reliability, out of 24 models, BMW 5 Series finished in second with a 97.2% record compared to diesel variants (91.8%) while the 530e PHEV model came in third at 89%.
The 2016 BMW 5 Series is available in four trim levels, each with a different engine; 528i, 535i, 535d, and 550i. The 5-passenger four-door sedan 5 Series may have the term "xDrive" attached to it indicating their all-wheel drive status. Although many of its competitors may be newer and equipped with more gadgets, the 2016 BMW 5 Series remains a popular choice for those looking for a luxury midsize sedan.
What's so Special in the BMW 5 Series?
The BMW 5 is a symbol of comfort series when driving. According to J.D. Power, compared to other sedans, the BMW 5 Series is more comfortable and makes a better choice if you have more cargo flexibility. The 2016 Series is available as a sedan or a hatchback (Gran Turismo) and in all-wheel or rear-drive configurations.
The first generation of the 5 Series models were naturally aspirated/breathing six-cylinder petrol four-cylinder engines. Naturally or normally 'breathing' engines take in air at normal atmospheric pressures. The 5 Series introduced the 3-digit BMW convention used when naming car models like the 528i or 550i.
In the mid-premium car sizes, the BMW series is rated 85 by J.D. Power which compares favorably with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (82) or the Cadillac XTS at 80. The J.D. Power 100-Point Score is derived from unbiased driver opinions.
You’ll also find a great deal of electronic toys inside the 5 Series, you also get to enjoy lots of electronic gadgets. Standard technology features on the 2016 BMW 5 Series include voice controls, a navigation system, and the iDrive interface featuring a 10.2-inch display and knob/button controller.
Other gadgets that make the BMW 5 Series so special include Bluetooth connectivity, trademark BMW emergency services, a 12-speaker sound system, and a massive 20GB of digital storage. The sound system comes with a 2a HD radio, CD player, USB port, auxiliary audio jack, and a media player interface.
All 5 Series models are equipped with an automatic climate control system for comfort. To hide them from open view, the ventilation vents have been deftly integrated into the dashboard design. Although standard with a tilt-and-slide sunroof, you can also opt for a fixed, large glass roof.
Common Issues with BMW 5 Series
Arguably, this 5 Series lacks the class of its predecessor like the 3 Series. It also experiences several common issues that can be easily handled. One common BMW 5 Series issue that often necessitates repair involves the system’s cooling system. Components that are often affected include the radiator, water pump, and thermostat. To preempt potential malfunctioning in the cooling system, adhere to the coolant flush and replacement intervals recommended by the car manufacturer. Regularly inspect for corrosion and leaks in the cooling system. Also address all warning signs promptly, particularly engine overheating.
Another common cooling system issue is plastic components failure in the expansion tank and radiator. These leaks, if not promptly addressed can lead to low coolant levels, engine overheating and potential long term damage.
Common transmission-related problems issues include delayed engagement, rough shifting, and potential transmission fluid leaks. To avoid such, issues, it's important to ensure regular inspection of the transmission fluid levels and replace them as per the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition, it’s essential to be vigilant for any irregularities in transmission that could negatively impact performance.
The BMW 5 Series F10 520i turbocharged N20 engine delivers a blend of efficiency and outstanding performance. The turbocharger may, over time experience performance-related issues. A common culprit is oil starvation in the turbocharger. To avert turbocharger failure, it’s essential to regularly service it through oil changes using recommended high-quality synthetic oil. Also, ensure that the oil supply lines are not blocked.
Another potential area is the suspension system. However, by regularly checking the system for signs of wear and tear, you can avoid costly repairs and continue to enjoy a seamless driving experience.
BMW 5 Series Performance and Specs
The 5 Series comes with an efficient and powerful turbocharged engine. It’s truly impressive for a large sedan like the 2016 BMW 535d to reach 60 miles per hour in a matter of 6 seconds. This has endeared this car to many driving enthusiasts. Upgrading to the 2016 BMW 535i and 550i assures even quicker acceleration while still maintaining respectable fuel economy.
Every model in the 2016 BMW 5 Series comes with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission as well as rear-wheel drive. Dubbed "xDrive", all-wheel drive is also an option available in the 5 Series. An automatic stop-start function is also standard, a feature that helps conserve fuel by shutting down the engine when you stop the car.
The standard 2016 BMW 528i comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates a massive 240 horsepower making more power than most drivers would expect. The more advanced 535i series has a 300-horsepower, 3.0-liter 6-cylinder turbocharged engine and strikes a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Even more powerful is the 535d which is available with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder turbodiesel engine capable of generating a formidable 255 horsepower. The 535d not only displays impressive muscle but also fuel economy.
A powerful car, the BMW 550i has a V8 twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter engine. On the other hand, the ActiveHybrid 5 uses a six-cylinder turbocharged, 3.0-liter engine, an electric motor capable of producing 335 horsepower. The 2016 BMW 5 Series generally drives nimbly and handles even tight corners with ease. All 5 Series models come with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission.
You can also access the BMW 5 Series in the M5 trim which is more performance-oriented. The M5 is equipped with a twin-turbocharged 560-horsepower 4.4-liter V8 engine that generates 500 pound-feet of torque. The M5 comes with a standard 7-speed automated manual transmission. At no extra cost, you can have a 6-speed manual installed if you wish. The BMW M5 can accelerate to 60 mph in mere 4.2 seconds and according to the maker, can attain a top speed of 155 miles per hour.
BMW 5 Series Fuel Efficiency
Compared with similar cars, the BMW 5 Series fuel economy compares favorably. The BMW 520i petrol engine, for example, offers up to 48.7mpg with an emission of 132g/km outdoing its Mercedes equivalent, the E-Class. Both the BMW 5 Series 550e and 530e plug-in hybrid versions derive power from a 22.1kWh battery pack which provides the 530e with a range of about 63 miles while the 550e gets 56 miles.
Pricing and Safety Features
Pricing for the 2016 BMW 5-Series varies depending on factors like trim specifications. Generally, however, the prices ranges from $50,200 (528i Sedan), $62,400 (535i xDrive M Sport Line Sedan) to $76, 540 for the 550 i xDrive M Sport Line Gran Turismo.
The 2016 BMW Series carries several standard safety equipment such as front-seat airbags and head restraints, antilock disc brakes and stability and traction control. The braking system is designed to periodically wipe the brake rotors dry when operating in wet conditions and also snug the brake pads automatically to the rotors to prepare for abrupt stops in throttling.
Also standard in the 5 Series are emergency Assist and Remote Services communications systems. This package includes an SOS button, automatic crash notification, and vehicle recovery.
The 5 Series Driver Assistance Plus package components include a lane-departure warning system, blind-spot warning system, and a forward-collision warning system equipped with automatic braking. Also available is Night Vision that has a Pedestrian Detection system which leverages an infrared sensor to detect objects and people that are typically outside of the car’s headlight range. Parking sensors is standard on the BMW 550i as is a rearview camera and parking sensors but on other models, these features optional.
The BMW 550i has additional features such as a keyless entry and ignition, rearview camera, parking sensors (front and rear), power trunk lid, satellite radio, 6-speaker sound system, and multi-contour front seats.
Final Words
For a sedan car, the BMW 5 Series epitomizes perfect driving dynamics and technology while giving a good balance between engine performance and fuel efficiency. While it's generally less performance-oriented compared to its subsequent siblings like the seventh-generation G30/G31/G38 launched in 2017, the 2016 BMW 5 Series remains an excellent choice as it offers high levels of driving comfort.
Even against worthy rivals like the Audi A6, Jaguar XF, and Mercedes E-Class, the BMW 5 Series still stands out. What stands out against the competition is the impressive handling of the BMW 5 Series, a feature any keen driver will notice. This the only executive car that comes with a manual gearbox to give you that precise and slick action when running a six-speed transmission engine.