BMW , 5 Series , G30/G31/G38

The BMW 5 Series (G30, G31 and G38) is a full-size executive car produced by the German manufacturer BMW since 2016. The G30 chassis was introduced in September 2016 as the sixth generation of the 5 Series, replacing the F10 (F9x). The G31 platform, a wagon variant, arrived later in February 2017.

Design and Features

The 2017 BMW 5 Series boasts a more aggressive design compared to its predecessor. Its exterior dimensions have increased slightly, with a length of 4,944 mm (195.0 in), width of 1,850 mm (72.8 in), and height of 1,528 mm (60.2 in) on the sedan. The wagon variant is marginally longer at 5,074 mm (200.0 in).

Key design features include BMW's signature kidney grille with LED headlamps positioned below it, creating a more aggressive appearance. The rear section sees larger taillights and a slightly sloping roofline that continues the coupe-like silhouette started by its predecessor.

Inside, the G30 offers a spacious cabin with ample room for passengers in both rows of seats. The dashboard features BMW's latest iDrive infotainment system, now offering gesture control capabilities among other improvements. The interior design is sleek and modern, but some critics have noted that while it has improved over previous generations, it doesn't quite live up to the luxurious feel of its direct competitors.

Powertrain

The 2017 BMW 5 Series offers a wide range of powertrains, catering to various driving preferences. Initially, the lineup included diesel and petrol engines from the BMW 520d (diesel) to the high-performance M550i xDrive. Petrol variants spanned from inline-four turbocharged units in the entry-level 530i to the V8-powered M550i xDrive.

One of the most significant upgrades is the introduction of a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, dubbed the B48 engine, which provides impressive performance and fuel economy. The diesel lineup benefits from the B57 engine, offering a substantial improvement in both power and efficiency.

The G30 also marks the return of all-wheel-drive technology to higher-end petrol models, with the exception of the 520d, though a specific rear-wheel drive variant is not directly mentioned for this generation.

Safety Features

As part of BMW's ongoing efforts to enhance safety features across its lineup, the G30 incorporates several high-tech systems as standard. These include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot detection among others.

The sedan was the first in the 5 Series family to integrate an integrated head-up display into its dashboard design since this specific model's introduction. BMW offered various safety packages that could be added at purchase or through later upgrades, including semi-autonomous driving assistance features and night vision capabilities under certain trim levels.

Performance

Performance options are not limited to just the M550i xDrive for enthusiasts. The new turbocharged inline-four engine provides impressive acceleration across its range, while a diesel variant, such as the 520d, offers significant performance without compromising on efficiency too much.

The top-of-the-line performance model in the G30 generation of the 5 Series is indeed the M550i xDrive, which features an all-wheel-drive system and comes equipped with an enhanced suspension setup tailored for both comfort and dynamic handling.

Generational Differences

Between the G30 (sedan) and G31 (wagon), both generations are largely identical in terms of powertrain offerings. However, there are slight differences in their overall dimensions due to the wagon's slightly longer length. The rear seats of the G38 M5 were not directly mentioned as part of the standard interior features but this car does boast an interior that is significantly up-sized compared to its competitors.

For owners seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, the G30/G31/G38 BMW 5 Series offers a compelling package. While some design choices might be subjective, it delivers on both comfort and driving dynamics across its range, making it a solid choice for those in the market for an executive sedan or wagon with high-performance capabilities.