The previous-generation BMW 5-Series was still mostly an analog version of the prototypical business-class, three-box design. For its eighth generation, it retained the same formula that made it the beloved choice of those stepping into the first rung of the corporate ladder. The G60 chassis, sitting on an evolved platform that can now accommodate an EV model, has gotten larger in all dimensions.
In form and function, does it remain the default preference in its category?
Styling
One look and it’s an obvious iteration of an established silhouette. The long hood, the sleek kidney grille, and that unmistakable Hofmeister kink that now has an embossed trim declaring its series number in the BMW lineup. The expansive glass greenhouse, muscular belt line, luxurious interior—they’re all there. Notable are the overdrawn body and bumper creases, giving it a more aggressive face and rump. Quiet, quintessential style.
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Interior
Inside, it’s all business, yet it exhibits a big jump in modernity. Since it shares the same interior as the hybrids and a full EV model, it’s inevitable that it comes with the ultra-wide screen, essential ambient lighting, and piano black trim.
The wide curved screen is divided into the 12.3-inch Live Cockpit Plus digital display and the 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The interior lighting is made with faceted crystal trim accents, providing a stark contrast to the fingerprint-magnet glossy trim. Elegant aesthetics. Of course, the mood lighting color and intensity are coordinated with the driving modes and even blink with the hazard indicators.
The crystal design elements were also applied to the latest version of the iDrive knob. I personally like the chunkier metal versions, but this slender crystal wheel blends in better with the flush buttons on the center console. A standout on the armrest panel is the knurled aluminum wheel volume control—so satisfying to the touch. Sort of disappointing however, that the door buttons are capacitive. Locking or unlocking the doors is not a positive physical experience.
The 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is on a par with business class. Extraordinary sound anywhere you’re sitting in the cabin. The front seats are electrically adjusted. All seats are vegan leather-wrapped, but the steering wheel is still stitched with real cowhide. The two-spoke steering wheel is flat at the top and on the bottom giving it a squarish shape. Sporty. Controls on the steering spokes are a mix of flat buttons, round toggles, and wheel scrollers. Bavarian turn signal stalk and wiper controls are known for their excellent quality and tactile feel. Not so for those installed here.
The minimalist vents are cleverly designed. They’re mere slits but they work well. Adjusting ventilation direction can be a bit fiddly, but how often do you readjust them anyway? The rear seats fold to extend the cavernous boot space, which can swallow two golf bags easily.
Engine performance
Under the hood is a reliable combustion engine with a mild 48-volt hybrid system. The four-cylinder turbo B48 has been a dependable and robust engine for a variety of BMW vehicles. Together with their customary eight-speed automatic transmission, the 520i gets to 100kph in a decent 7.5sec. The hybrid drive system boosts that acceleration and works seamlessly with the start-stop system to conserve fuel. It also makes driving through slow-moving traffic bearable. Without the hybrid power, four unboosted cylinders at low revs will have a hard time moving a five-meter-long hunk of metal while cruising for a parking slot.
Ride and handling
Just like the earlier generations of the 5-Series, its suspension components and geometry are engineered to make it an ultimate driving machine. Astonishingly nimble and light on its wheels. Suspension is supple, and when combined with tall-profiled 18-inch ultra-high performance tires, the handling fits the demands of a business manager. The one who loves to drive to work. The steering feel is attuned to the driving mode, so it is coordinated with the requested performance. Thus, it’s not cumbersome to maneuver even at slow speeds.
Extra features
For additional safety, there’s more than the usual number of airbags. The crash sensors are sensitive and a bit intrusive. It will automatically apply brakes violently, but safely. This automated braking functionality also applies when the cruise control is engaged.
LED headlights with high beam-assist make driving in dark conditions safer. It illuminates the road and traffic signs well, yet avoids dazzling oncoming vehicles. Dynamic Live Carpet provides a long and wide lighted area near the front and rear doors.
With Connected Drive service, driver settings are saved as an online profile. That password-protected BMW ID can be used to log into any vehicle equipped with the feature, even rented cars. With a connected smartphone, the driver or passenger can remotely control security and even air-conditioner settings. Digging through submenus can be a chore. Getting all your driving preference settings instantly just by logging in is a convenience that’s novel and welcome. On hot days, imagine remotely pre-cooling the vehicle even before you get to the parking lot. Once inside, passengers can individually adjust the climate controls on all four corners of the cabin.
Verdict
The BMW G60 continues as the archetypal executive sedan. Even with the 520i base model, the elements that made it so are all there. The drivetrain may be shared with smaller, lighter, and less luxurious models, but it’s proven and reliable. Maybe a bit underwhelming when pushed on the expressway. But as it should, there’s still a straight six-cylinder engine in the 540i that you can opt for if this feels lacking.
SPECS: BMW 520i 2025
Price: P4,990,000
Engine: 2.0-liter in-line-four turbopetrol + 48V mild-hybrid technology
Power: 208hp
Torque: 330Nm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Drive layout: Rear-wheel-drive
Seats: 5
Score: 8/10
More photos of the BMW 520i 2025:
