DIVA Drives

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

The infotainment system of the new 530i features a standard 10.25-inch Control Display, designer controls on the centre console and conveniently arranged multifunction buttons on the sports steering wheel. We found this practical system to be of exceptionally high quality and responsive to commands.

The latest-generation 530i contains the BMW Operating System 7 that incorporates both the standard BMW Live Cockpit Plus, along with the optional Live Cockpit Professional. These features, along with an array of additional digital services, assist the driver in multiple ways. We were once again impressed by the cloud-based BMW Maps. It calculates routes and arrival times almost instantly and provides real-time traffic data, at short intervals, amongst other handy features.

The 530i also provides full smartphone connectivity, Google Assistant, Bluetooth/wi-fi interfaces, a head-up display, a multimedia system, BMW Intelligent Personal Assist, along with Remote Software Upgrades.

SAFETY & ASSISTANCE

Alongside the multiple standard airbags fitted throughout the vehicle, BMW have included various driver assistance systems in their saloon. These include cruise control with brake function and the Attentiveness Assistant. The optional Driving Assistant is a camera- and radar-based driver assistance system that offers additional features. These include lane departure warning, lane changing warning with blind spot detection, front collision warning with brake intervention, rear crossing traffic warning and rear collision warning.

POWER & PERFORMANCE

Our test model 530i xDrive Saloon was powered by a four-cylinder, inline petrol engine featuring mild hybrid technology and coupled with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission. This setup produces a capacity of 1,998cc, an output of 252hp and a max torque of 250Nm. All this power enables the 530i xDrive to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable 6.3 seconds and to attain an electronically capped top speed of 250km/h. We were excited by the way the BMW xDrive system maximises traction and handling stability. Furthermore, the effective braking system always managed to tame the abundance of power on offer, adding to the sense of ultimate control this remarkable car provides.

Our Verdict

Featuring beautiful interior and exterior designs, responsive driving performance and plenty of both comfort and assistance, you simply can’t go wrong with this four-door luxury saloon.

For more information or to book a test drive of your own, please call Euro Motors on 1775 0750.

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