Multi-motor M-performance?
In the automotive world, there is an on-paper race to create electric vehicles to compete with Tesla. But many automakers are choosing to focus on hybrid options before making the leap to full electric. This is the 'safe' approach as there is much to learn about the differences between combustion engines and electric motors. We believe the best approach is to design a car around the battery, but many automakers are choosing to modify existing cars to hybrids; taking the current vehicle and finding space for the battery and adding the motor. The BMW 530e is a prime example. So can we simply take a 5-series BMW, slap a battery and motor in it and call it a day? And is that all the 530e is?
Let’s start with how it looks. Apart from the added M-performance package, it looks like a standard, combustion powered, 5-series. The added goodies from the M-performance pack look fantastic though, adding more aggressive bumpers with glosssy carbon fibre bits, a carbon spoiler lip and some upgraded rims.
Now, I need to make it clear, because there will be those who get confused by the marketing. The M-performance pack has little to no effect on performance; it’s mainly cosmetic. Having “performance” in the name might make you expect an increased output, but mostly it provides increased stopping power through some upgraded M-branded brakes. Along with the bigger rotors and pads, you get some flappy paddles and a nicer set of rims. The rest is all visual upgrades. I don’t feel like paddles and larger brakes screams M-performance. Maybe a slight tune, sport exhaust, or stiffer springs, something that adds more excitement for your $12k.
Performance wise, the car is built on the 530i setup. Start with the 248hp 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine and detune it to 180hp, remove a portion of the gas tank, add a small battery and electric motor and you’re back at a combined 248hp. On a full charge the battery will get you 27kms in full EV mode. It's really is not a sizeable charge. The gas engine will automatically kick in if your foot demands too much power from the car, or you surpass 140km/h (ed: allegedly, and you may find it happens sooner). The e-boost will assist in getting you moving - not with the same oomph as larger displacement - but still with a sense of urgency. The combustion engine benefits from the electric assistance in start-stop instances, before the engine has reengaged the electric motor can propel the car along with a seamless transition once the engine is ready. This vastly improves the start-stop system, though we generally aren’t fans of the feature.
The cabin is as you'd expect from a 5-series BMW with soft, plush leather. Both the front and rear feature comfortable seats that you sink into. The contrast piping on the seats along with the diamond stitch looks exquisite and the LED lighting along the doors and dashboard brings a new characteristic to night time drives. The pillars are thick, creating a slightly larger blind spot in each corner, but this is done in an effort to make a much quieter ride, which it succeeds, to the point where you almost feel a separation from the outside world. The much-appreciated privacy screens in the rear also add to this effect.
The car is perfect for those that want that familiar, comfortable ride of a 5-series BMW but also want to be eco-conscious. It rides and drives the same, looks fantastic with the M-performance carbon additions and you can boast to your friends about smaller carbon footprints. Oddly enough, this car doesn't boast about the M-Performance edition as much as some others, which we love, as regular BMW vehicles should not wear the M badge. Sad news though, this car, as tested, is $80k, that's quite pricey. So put down that avocado toast, grab Daddy's credit card and consider a fantastic, eco-friendly vehicle that won't come with range anxiety, but will come with a badge you can be proud of.
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