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What kind of vehicle is the 2024 BMW 5-Series? What does it compare to?
The 2024 BMW 5-Series is a five-seat midsize sport sedan, the eighth generation of a car that debuted in 1972. Its rivals include two Germans—the Audi A6 and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class—and perhaps the Genesis G80.
Is the 2024 BMW 5-Series a good car?
With tauter styling, a traditional but comfortable interior, and the roadholding and handling BMW is known for, the 2024 5-Series carries on the long tradition of 5-Series sedans. The 5-Series earns a TCC Rating of 6.8 out of 10; we will rate the i5 battery-electric versions of the same car separately. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
What’s new for the 2024 BMW 5-Series?
The eighth generation of the BMW 5-Series has grown slightly in all dimensions, but retains its precise on-road feel. The series will have two gasoline options and two i5 battery-electric models (reviewed separately) within the first few months; BMW will add a plug-in hybrid version late in 2024.
All versions of the 2024 5-Series have BMW’s latest larger twin-kidney grille openings and sharper-edged design, but the car remains instantly recognizable as a 5-Series sedan. Against the previous generation, it’s 3.4 inches longer, 1.3 inches wider, and 1.4 inches higher—in part to maintain its proportions while accommodating a battery pack under the cabin floor of electric versions. A black band under the doors hides the height, and onlookers will likely never guess the same car could include a gasoline engine or an all-electric powertrain. Wheel options range from 19 to 21 inches, depending on the specific model.
The entry gas model is the 530i, with a turbocharged inline-4; it’s the only one we’ve driven. Above that will sit the 540i, with a turbo inline-6, available at the start of 2024. Both versions are more powerful than the previous generation, with the 540i in particular getting a major boost. They power their wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, with xDrive all-wheel drive optional for the 530i and standard on the 540i. Both engines include a 48-volt starter-generator system as standard. There will undoubtedly be a hot-rod M5 model as well, though BMW released no specs or descriptions.If the company’s most recent M models are any indication, it may be a performance-tuned plug-in hybrid.
This year’s 2.0-liter turbo-4 in the 530i makes 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, which is 7 hp and 38 lb-ft more than the outgoing turbo-4. The 540i gets a boost of 40 hp and 52 lb-ft, with BMW quoting power of 375 hp, torque of 384 lb-ft, and a 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds. Few specs were revealed for the 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid model beyond a power rating of 483 hp and a projected EPA-rated electric range of 30 to 40 miles; it arrives late in 2024.
As always, the 5-Series holds the road and corners with precision. Long-tenured owners may find the combination of start-stop, turbocharging, and an 8-speed transmission can make power delivery slightly lumpy—especially if they drive the 530i back to back against one of the electric i5 models.
Inside, BMW owners will instantly recognize the dashboard, cluster, and central touchscreen as an evolution of previous generations. For 2024, BMW has changed from its traditional three-spoke steering wheel to a new design with two spokes, to accommodate more driver functions on the spokes. Version 8.5 of BMW’s iDrive control system adds both video streaming and gaming—though only while the car is stationary.
Cabin space is ample and comfortable for four adults, and this year’s 5-Series gets a boost in trunk space. Rear legroom also benefits from a slightly longer wheelbase.
BMW equips each 5-Series with a comprehensive suite of active safety features. Many more are optional, including the Driving Assistance Professional package that now includes a new hands-off highway driving capability up to 85 mph.
How much does the 2024 BMW 5-Series cost?
The rear-drive 530i, starting at $58,895 including a mandatory delivery fee of $995, has 19-inch wheels, vegan “leather-like” seats, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a 13.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as wireless smartphone charging. The xDrive all-wheel drive system adds $2,300 to the 530i’s price; it’s standard on the 540i, which starts at $65,895.
Where is the 2024 BMW 5-Series made?
All BMW 5-Series models are made in Dingolfing, Germany.
