BMW 5 Series 523i Review: Class Act

What we like:

Silky smooth straight-six motor

excellent ride for a BMW

well-proportioned styling

comes with many convenient features

superb gearbox

What we dislike:

Engine lacks torque at low speeds

needs bigger wheels to fill those wheel arches

an overtly common sight

expensive

The F10 5 Series' all-new interior is far superior in perceived luxury and build quality over the E60's when it was first launched. The switchgear is mostly familiar BMW items - they not only look good but work with tactility as well.

The dials look similar to the 7 Series' while the centre console and iDrive screen is angled towards the driver. The latest iDrive operating system and interface is far easier to use than the version one in early E60s. Both the driver and front passenger get standard electrical adjustments for their comfortable and supportive seats. In addition, the driver gets an electrically adjustable steering column even in this base model for an even more comfortable driving position.

There are sufficient enough leg and headroom at the rear even though an E-Class somehow feels more airy at the back. Storage spaces are in abundance inside - there are large door bins, cup holders, a storage space under the front armrest and so on. The well-shaped boot is deep and gargantuan in size and the 523i comes with an electrically operated boot lid for convenience and that extra touch of luxury even in this base model.

All in all, the 523i doesn't feel like a much more affordable base model than the 535i on the inside thanks to its myriad of convenient and luxury features like the electrically adjustable steering column, electrically operated boot release, cruise control, Bluetooth telephone connectivity, large iDrive screen as well as other standard kit like Xenon headlamps, Comfort Access and so on. The base 523i only misses out on the 535i's four-zone climate control, Park Assistant, electric sunroof, larger 18-inch wheels, navigation system, Head-Up Display, soft closing doors, adaptive headlamps and so on.

For $15k more of your money, the 523i Highline offers ‘Fineline' wood trim, Park Assistant, navigation, an upgraded stereo and larger alloy wheels that the base model here make do without.

The entry level 523i might not be as quick as some of its rivals or the range topping 535i but it offers silky smooth performance that none of its rivals can match. Moreover, it offers loads of standard luxury kit for convenience and added appeal as well as looking well proportioned and handsome from all angles. It's no wonder the F10 5 Series has been such a big hit with executive car buyers since its launch.

Credits: Story and Photos by Raymond Lai