I love the new 5-Series and all, but if I had over $50,000 to spend, I'd prefer the 2016 model (last generation). Not really a tech geek, but the remote controlled parking feature is quite amazing in my opinion.
That’s exactly what I did in 2017. I didn’t like the design and the tech wasn’t much different. I took a 15,000 mile 2016 550i M-sport. It was the better choice I payed it off this year and plan on giving it to my son in 2 years. It’s got 90,000 miles on it.
Me too. I did some research on the engine of this car. The B58. Apparently its very strong reliable. One of the best engines BMW has ever made. They fit it in most of their models. 340i, 540i 740i x5/x6 , Z4 and even Toyota supra uses this engine. Haven't heard much negativity about that block.
My wife needs this remote-park feature. She tends to go full Woody Allen in most parking situations. The soliloquy impressed. Unlike most video reviewers who tend to ramble on randomly about the cars, Steve is word-perfect, without a hint of clickbait 4 Bavarian Wurst out of 5 PS - any M6 review on the horizon?
Haha I think the 550i is the new 540i, and they introduced another in-between, but I'm just griping about minuscule crap on the internet because I don't have any real problems in life. #firstworldproblems
Well I am a firm believer the it should be like my old 325i, the first number is the series, the next two is for the engine size. So i would rather my car be called a 544i, but I get that their marketing department has other ideas. Especially when they get rid of some straight 6s for some turbo 4s, and still want to call it a 328i so it sells.
I actually like BMW Harmon Kardon better than Audi B&O. Maybe that's only because I'm comparing it to the system in the A4 (that's the only one I know.
A4's B&O system is not a real B&O system. you just get the name. only the A6 and higher have a proper, no compromise B&O system, but you will pay for it
Great Review as always Steve. Finally a reviewer who thinks BMW's styling hasn't changed much. Honestly that is one of the reasons people may look at the Genesis brand, it offers something different.
Had a 2011 BMW 535i. Car had a few problems until 50k miles. From 50k-60k miles my car needed a new water pump, new fuel filter, new steering wheel horn, and even a new belt! I have a 2000 Astro van with 198k miles with less problems. Will never buy a BMW again
It would be very rewarding to see this 2017 BMW 540i go head to head with the 2017 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 AWD Signature Package. Compare in depth features, practicality, safety, interior quality, and technology.
Monrowe Toussaint The Red Sport is far more sporting and fun to drive while the 540i is far more technically advanced and luxurious. They're really quite different.
Thanks Steve for the reply. I have to say both vehicles have new and innovative technologies. For example the BMW 54Oi has remote parking, whiles the InfinitI Q50 Red Sport 400 has an industry first radar cruise control which can monitor two vehicles ahead of it. In regards to luxury both vehicles offer Semi Aniline Nappa leather , Maple wood, and Carbon fibre. The infiniti Q50 has a higher safety rating in regards to impact and safety technology and also better built quality than the BMW 540i.
What If i really could care less about the stupid key fob (i think a smart phone app would have been a better idea), and stupid gesture control, and stupid autonomous driving tech, i just want a BWM cachet and that REALLY good looking interior? i feel like 82K is way too steep of a price to pay. OUCH!
In regards to automotive principles. The BMW 3 Series is categorised under the small compact sedan section due to its dimensions. Whiles the Infiniti Q50 is a mid size luxury sedan. Here are the exterior dimension of BMW 5 Series in length 194.6 inches, width 73.5 inches. In regards to the interior passenger volume is 99 cu ft. Now here are the dimensions for the Infiniti Q50 in length 189.1 inches, width 71.8 inches. In regards to the interior passenger volume is 100 cu ft. These figures are clearly midsize category based on automotive principles.
isnt this still the F10 chassis from 2011 (or was it 2009/2010?). Why is this not mentioned or is this a whole new chassis? Doesn't look new...then again 5 series usually gets reserved design lingos which is actually why I like it more than the drastic changing 3 series that go through major design shifts each generation
This car with the M-Sport package looks bland. Not as sporty as the previous generation. The wheels in particular look boring and not "sporty" at all!. The interior is still gorgeous and the wireless charging and Apple/Android ratios are awesome. The price however, is out of hand.
Why do I need to turn my fingers like an asshole and exert for force and effort, whereas I can turn the volume knob way easier. I find BMW's new "tech" are laughable and nothing but gimmicky bullshit that no one truly needs in a daily driving environment. I also own an older 2007 3-series and I love it when it didn't have so much bullshit
That remote control parking is a friggin joke. I laugh at the putz doing this, A it takes to long, B the car you shimmied up to does NOT have the ability to get out like you got in and your begging for big dings and scratches because of it. ** I had to add those front seats are too busy.
You can almost buy a Lexus GSF for this price. BMW needs to focus more on reliability than remote parking capabilities. Try to use that remote option in a busy parking lot in Houston or elsewhere, and everyone will be cursing and/or honking at you in a matter of seconds. BMW is losing the plot, and those who don't see it need to wake up from their delusional dreams. There is a reason after all a 3-4 year old BMW is very inexpensive!
You sir, haven't been driving a BMW for a good couple of years. These things are reliable, it's what you pay for (that and marketing bullshit...but you have that with every major car company)
$82,000 for a fully loaded 5 series (excluding X-Drive). Thanks but no thanks. Would rather save $10,000+ and buy a loaded Caddy CTS, Lexus GS or Infiniti Q70. Hi-tech and all the gizmos are great but nothing beats money staying in my wallet.
Tully3674 for some people who has $82,000 I'm sure that's no problem for them. That's the reason why BMW is more luxurious in the market because if you put a caddy or Lexus next to a BMW, regular consumers know that BMW is pricier which instantly means it's more luxurious. It's all about brand image.
completely agree, way overpriced, get rid of the bullshit gesture control and other stupid electronics i'm never going to use, and give me that sweet interior, sweet straight 6, and really nice leather.
You're joking right? You would pick a mediocre Lexus or Infiniti over an award-winning 5 series thats universally been acclaimed by publications and chosen as the superior car over all of its competitors in the same segment? Shows how much you know. And btw I am part Japanese and I know for a fact that current Lexus and Infinity offerings still do not stack up to the Germans in terms of driving dynamics, design or comfort. I know they're probably cheaper but there's always a reason why. You know why Infiniti, Caddy and Lexus are lagging behind the Germans for sales numbers despite being cheaper? Because you pay for what you get. I know the 5 series is a little overpriced but its still a much better investment if you have the money. Cheap and quality dont mix. If you want to save money just buy a Corolla.
With a Mercedes E43 offering more power, AWD standard, a better interior and faster trap times, this new 540i is still a half-step behind the market leader. The benefit here is price. This starts at $57k, the E43 at $72k. A well-equipped E43 is under $85k, like this tester. Unless you really need to save $100 a month, the E43 is the first choice in this class.
Well, a E43 costs $ 12.000,- more than a 540i (at least in Germany and with the same options). I think, you can't compare these cars. I had a E300 for one day.... I really can't say that the interior in a E-Class is better. But a matter of taste.
@@WB_Muc The OP comment made no sense. You can get the 550 with a v8 for the same price as the E43 and it's way faster. The E43 was a joke tbh...I won't even get into the competition packages that all smoke the E class.
Another overly complicated, pricey luxury car that you sense won't make it far out of its warranty period without requiring expensive maintenance and repairs. As the owner of a 2011 X5, I'm quite familiar with how BMW monetizes it's customers.
Forreal? I think these are very nice cars but are overpriced. How has that X5 treated you? I was thinking about a '14 Infiniti Q50S for my next car. How does the dealership you go too treat you?
The warranty period is 3 years. If your BMW has issues during this time, you're in the minority. My dad's F10 5 series is over 5 years old, him being the only owner. No issues at all. My 3 series is still going fine after several years. And I've never any of my mates who own BMW's complain about poor reliability and maintenance issues UNLESS you're one of the buffoons who services his BMW with some cheapo mechanic who uses shit parts. Then you're to blame not the car.
Boring....only bmw worth having must me an "M". No thanks. Additionally, I don't buy a car because of the electronics. If it can't burn rubber, or give me the adrenaline I desire, the fugitabboutit.
That interior is not handsome. Same layout since...well since bmw has been known as the ultimate driving machine. BMW hasn't had style since Chris Bangle left this is like a rwd Camry.
No they weren't! That's why they're still using most of what he introduced to bmw design. If not for him bmws would still be a box with one straight line on the body.
Ever since BMW started using faked engine noise they have gone down my list. Along with electric, feel-less steering. No wonder they changed their ultimate driving machine slogan
Buy this in 2024!
Last of the beautiful real bmw sedans with power, performance and looks. I own the 2017 530i and wish it was the 540i.
What's the difference between 530 and 540i? Also how long have you had your 530i, have you had any kind of major repairs and if so what did they cost?
540i has a bigger engine then a 530i the higher the number the bigger the engine
The price will dramatically decrease within a few years! My dad currently has the 2019 bmw m550i. The power is insane🤯
Just wait for 4 years and buy the same car for around 25k with
Similar to what I did. Caught a 2014 535i xDrive with almost every option for $24K. 3 years ago it went for $67K, quite happy with my decision.
Im about to purchase this model for 35k with 17k miles. 33k left in warranty and half the cost from msrp :)
Planning to buy one now the price has dropped as the lci is coming out
@@FahimKhan-ov9ki I have just purchased one - fantastic deal.
What I'm planning to do after my e39s supercharged.
I love the little braking you do at the end of most of your reviews. I always look for that.
That's funny...others have made that comment, too.
I love the new 5-Series and all, but if I had over $50,000 to spend, I'd prefer the 2016 model (last generation). Not really a tech geek, but the remote controlled parking feature is quite amazing in my opinion.
i think the last generation is ever so slightly better looking.
That’s exactly what I did in 2017. I didn’t like the design and the tech wasn’t much different. I took a 15,000 mile 2016 550i M-sport. It was the better choice I payed it off this year and plan on giving it to my son in 2 years. It’s got 90,000 miles on it.
@@Ashw1115 Smart move! Especially with inflation being out of control as it has been for some time.
here i am now looking at this for under 40k lol
Me too
How did you guys make out? Now I’m looking at 22k
@@michaelp8369 bought a used tesla lol
@@michaelp8369 did u buy one
I own the Sportsline model of this very same vehicle. Best ride I have ever owned!
I’m a Mercedes fanboy, but this BMW looks much better than a E class.
So that would mean you are not a MB Fan Buy who you kidding.
Watching this in 2022. Wondering how the cars held up 5 years later. I will be in the market for a new car next year, so I'm in the researching phase.
Me too. I did some research on the engine of this car. The B58. Apparently its very strong reliable. One of the best engines BMW has ever made. They fit it in most of their models. 340i, 540i 740i x5/x6 , Z4 and even Toyota supra uses this engine. Haven't heard much negativity about that block.
One of the best engines ever made amazing real world economy and easy power with tuning and reliable
I love what they did interior. Exterior was very lazy. Looks more like a face lift than a remodel body.
Most will likely go with the 530i with the turbo 4. Still, it'll be close to $70k fully equipped.
My wife needs this remote-park feature. She tends to go full Woody Allen in most parking situations. The soliloquy impressed. Unlike most video reviewers who tend to ramble on randomly about the cars, Steve is word-perfect, without a hint of clickbait
4 Bavarian Wurst out of 5
PS - any M6 review on the horizon?
Wait to hear the end of the Prius Prime video...will blow your mind :-) I'd say doubtful but you never know!
TestDriveNow Reviews by Auto Critic Steve Hammes m
You don't let your wife drive your car, are you crazy?
3.0 Twin Turbo that was gooood
My 540i has a 4.4L v8, do they even have a plan with their nomenclature these days
It's so confusing.
Haha I think the 550i is the new 540i, and they introduced another in-between, but I'm just griping about minuscule crap on the internet because I don't have any real problems in life. #firstworldproblems
It really is, though. If I can't keep them straight how can the average consumer?
Well I am a firm believer the it should be like my old 325i, the first number is the series, the next two is for the engine size. So i would rather my car be called a 544i, but I get that their marketing department has other ideas. Especially when they get rid of some straight 6s for some turbo 4s, and still want to call it a 328i so it sells.
How do you compare the ride comfort between 540i and the 2017 Audi A6 3.0 competition?
Who has the best car audio system in your opinion?
would love to hear an answer to this one +1
Bentley
Audi bang & olufsen
I actually like BMW Harmon Kardon better than Audi B&O. Maybe that's only because I'm comparing it to the system in the A4 (that's the only one I know.
A4's B&O system is not a real B&O system. you just get the name. only the A6 and higher have a proper, no compromise B&O system, but you will pay for it
The best car ! I pay 109 !!
If BMW wants to be the ultimate driving machine, they need to pull something new out of their factories.
Great Review as always Steve. Finally a reviewer who thinks BMW's styling hasn't changed much. Honestly that is one of the reasons people may look at the Genesis brand, it offers something different.
That price tag is exactly why the majority of them are leased.
Brandon George And?
Could only dream of 82K USD prices on a top of the range 5 series. Think These are about 115K USD in Aus
82 ? Holy shit.
Had a 2011 BMW 535i. Car had a few problems until 50k miles. From 50k-60k miles my car needed a new water pump, new fuel filter, new steering wheel horn, and even a new belt! I have a 2000 Astro van with 198k miles with less problems. Will never buy a BMW again
I agree, BMW's styling is getting a bit dusty. All those high tech electronics are pretty much useless. I only want a straight six and RWD, that's it.
340i it is. Or if it's available, the M140i.
It would be very rewarding to see this 2017 BMW 540i go head to head with the 2017 Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 AWD Signature Package. Compare in depth features, practicality, safety, interior quality, and technology.
Monrowe Toussaint The Red Sport is far more sporting and fun to drive while the 540i is far more technically advanced and luxurious. They're really quite different.
Thanks Steve for the reply. I have to say both vehicles have new and innovative technologies. For example the BMW 54Oi has remote parking, whiles the InfinitI Q50 Red Sport 400 has an industry first radar cruise control which can monitor two vehicles ahead of it. In regards to luxury both vehicles offer Semi Aniline Nappa leather , Maple wood, and Carbon fibre. The infiniti Q50 has a higher safety rating in regards to impact and safety technology and also better built quality than the BMW 540i.
What If i really could care less about the stupid key fob (i think a smart phone app would have been a better idea), and stupid gesture control, and stupid autonomous driving tech, i just want a BWM cachet and that REALLY good looking interior? i feel like 82K is way too steep of a price to pay. OUCH!
TestDriveNow Reviews by Auto Critic Steve Hammes might be, but the Q50 is a 3 series competitor
In regards to automotive principles. The BMW 3 Series is categorised under the small compact sedan section due to its dimensions. Whiles the Infiniti Q50 is a mid size luxury sedan. Here are the exterior dimension of BMW 5 Series in length 194.6 inches, width 73.5 inches. In regards to the interior passenger volume is 99 cu ft. Now here are the dimensions for the Infiniti Q50 in length 189.1 inches, width 71.8 inches. In regards to the interior passenger volume is 100 cu ft. These figures are clearly midsize category based on automotive principles.
'BMW styling is getting a bit dusty' is honestly so funny given how far from grace they've fallen since
Love it or hate it, they’ve definitely moved on from stayed styling.
Bro $82k?? wtf
Is the Ambient light standard accross all g30?
Bring back e46ers
wow 82k as tested
I thought the exact same wow $82k.
The Benz E43 AMG is more me
This would be around 160k in Norway...
isnt this still the F10 chassis from 2011 (or was it 2009/2010?). Why is this not mentioned or is this a whole new chassis? Doesn't look new...then again 5 series usually gets reserved design lingos which is actually why I like it more than the drastic changing 3 series that go through major design shifts each generation
ZDY This is indeed new.
@@stevehammes awesome, thanks!
looking at a 17 540i today with 55k miles. 21k list price 😂
e39 5 series is still the best
If you have $65-80k laying around... which would you take 5-Series or E-Class? Steve -- I think you prefer the Mercedes E-Class.
Billy Sou I would take the 5 series without a second thought
And how much are those Michelins per tire on that Beamer?
Billy Sou Well over $400 per on Tire Rack!
Yikes.
No worries Apple is expected to invent wireless charging and include it in the next iphone later this year.
Shell Casing How can Apple invent something that already exists when Androids have had wirelessly charging for a long time.
Rear seat tab for the sunshade sticks up....Not in my 82,000 car!
Nice 5er for sure. However, the styling is run of the mill on the outside. Also, that high test car price is a stretch
So why review the model that most people won't buy?
4rjk I guess for everyone to see the tech. Just look at this one and subtract what you won't have.
This car with the M-Sport package looks bland. Not as sporty as the previous generation. The wheels in particular look boring and not "sporty" at all!. The interior is still gorgeous and the wireless charging and Apple/Android ratios are awesome. The price however, is out of hand.
It wasn't sent the center of the parking lines, I see trouble in very near future, BMW already has major electric and mechanical problems
Why do I need to turn my fingers like an asshole and exert for force and effort, whereas I can turn the volume knob way easier. I find BMW's new "tech" are laughable and nothing but gimmicky bullshit that no one truly needs in a daily driving environment. I also own an older 2007 3-series and I love it when it didn't have so much bullshit
So the stinger is equally equipped, with more power And it looks far better. I'll be taking that. Bmw is so dull these days.
That remote control parking is a friggin joke. I laugh at the putz doing this, A it takes to long, B the car you shimmied up to does NOT have the ability to get out like you got in and your begging for big dings and scratches because of it. ** I had to add those front seats are too busy.
“Wireless is available except not for iPhone.” Except that it is.
As of the time of video posting, Apple did not offer wireless device charging without the purchase of an aftermarket product.
jealous man
Auto critic Steve Hammes. Not Steve Hammes. Its Auto Critic Steve Hammes. Auto Critic. Auto. Critic.
ok!!
@@stevehammes 'I hereby Christen this child Auto Critic Steve Hammes' - I jest of course. You keep on trucking Sir
See I feel BMW's interiors are dated too. They are nice but they look the same from generation to generation.
That's good! There's alot to be said for familiarity. When BMWs looked radically different (the Bangle era) they were shite.
Red Pill Intelligence I disagree but to each their own.
You can almost buy a Lexus GSF for this price. BMW needs to focus more on reliability than remote parking capabilities. Try to use that remote option in a busy parking lot in Houston or elsewhere, and everyone will be cursing and/or honking at you in a matter of seconds. BMW is losing the plot, and those who don't see it need to wake up from their delusional dreams. There is a reason after all a 3-4 year old BMW is very inexpensive!
AF A According to Consumer Reports, BMW reliability is near the top of the pack. They're among the top 4 car makers if I remember correctly.
You sir, haven't been driving a BMW for a good couple of years. These things are reliable, it's what you pay for (that and marketing bullshit...but you have that with every major car company)
The Lexus GSF is hideous. Why on the world would you recommend that car?
BMW is now #2 in reliability lol
$82,000 for a fully loaded 5 series (excluding X-Drive). Thanks but no thanks. Would rather save $10,000+ and buy a loaded Caddy CTS, Lexus GS or Infiniti Q70. Hi-tech and all the gizmos are great but nothing beats money staying in my wallet.
Tully3674 for some people who has $82,000 I'm sure that's no problem for them. That's the reason why BMW is more luxurious in the market because if you put a caddy or Lexus next to a BMW, regular consumers know that BMW is pricier which instantly means it's more luxurious. It's all about brand image.
completely agree, way overpriced, get rid of the bullshit gesture control and other stupid electronics i'm never going to use, and give me that sweet interior, sweet straight 6, and really nice leather.
Tully3674 I agree, for $7k more you can get a nice deal on a CTS-V
Tully3674 GS & Q70 are terrible, the q70 is actually garbage. this is coming from a Nissan/Infiniti Fan.
You're joking right? You would pick a mediocre Lexus or Infiniti over an award-winning 5 series thats universally been acclaimed by publications and chosen as the superior car over all of its competitors in the same segment? Shows how much you know. And btw I am part Japanese and I know for a fact that current Lexus and Infinity offerings still do not stack up to the Germans in terms of driving dynamics, design or comfort. I know they're probably cheaper but there's always a reason why. You know why Infiniti, Caddy and Lexus are lagging behind the Germans for sales numbers despite being cheaper? Because you pay for what you get. I know the 5 series is a little overpriced but its still a much better investment if you have the money.
Cheap and quality dont mix. If you want to save money just buy a Corolla.
With a Mercedes E43 offering more power, AWD standard, a better interior and faster trap times, this new 540i is still a half-step behind the market leader. The benefit here is price. This starts at $57k, the E43 at $72k. A well-equipped E43 is under $85k, like this tester. Unless you really need to save $100 a month, the E43 is the first choice in this class.
Well, a E43 costs $ 12.000,- more than a 540i (at least in Germany and with the same options). I think, you can't compare these cars.
I had a E300 for one day.... I really can't say that the interior in a E-Class is better. But a matter of taste.
Nissan TitanWarrior nobody cares about your granddad's car
@@WB_Muc The OP comment made no sense. You can get the 550 with a v8 for the same price as the E43 and it's way faster. The E43 was a joke tbh...I won't even get into the competition packages that all smoke the E class.
@@pete64041 hahaha your comment makes no sense. You respond after 6 years. I see the topic was 540 and not 550. You did not get the point.
@@WB_Muc Your point was stupid then and stupid 6 years later lol
Another overly complicated, pricey luxury car that you sense won't make it far out of its warranty period without requiring expensive maintenance and repairs. As the owner of a 2011 X5, I'm quite familiar with how BMW monetizes it's customers.
Forreal? I think these are very nice cars but are overpriced. How has that X5 treated you? I was thinking about a '14 Infiniti Q50S for my next car. How does the dealership you go too treat you?
bassandtrebleclef BMW has shot way up in reliability lately.
Kev50027 that's what I heard myself but idk
The warranty period is 3 years. If your BMW has issues during this time, you're in the minority. My dad's F10 5 series is over 5 years old, him being the only owner. No issues at all. My 3 series is still going fine after several years. And I've never any of my mates who own BMW's complain about poor reliability and maintenance issues UNLESS you're one of the buffoons who services his BMW with some cheapo mechanic who uses shit parts. Then you're to blame not the car.
Richie Chou That's good to hear because I'm looking at a 550i from '14+ but il see where life takes me
Boring....only bmw worth having must me an "M". No thanks. Additionally, I don't buy a car because of the electronics. If it can't burn rubber, or give me the adrenaline I desire, the fugitabboutit.
I drive 80kms a day for work so I’d much rather prefer a 540i or 530i. I’d keep a second a car for the weekend fun drives.
That interior is not handsome. Same layout since...well since bmw has been known as the ultimate driving machine. BMW hasn't had style since Chris Bangle left this is like a rwd Camry.
Bangle's cars were shite!
No they weren't! That's why they're still using most of what he introduced to bmw design. If not for him bmws would still be a box with one straight line on the body.
Ever since BMW started using faked engine noise they have gone down my list.
Along with electric, feel-less steering. No wonder they changed their ultimate driving machine slogan
garbage car !!! love my 2003 540