With the automotive industry steering heavily toward alternative power sources, it’s unsurprising that BMW introduced a plug-in 5-Series in 2017. But it costs the same as its ICE-only alternative. That’s largely because that was the first time a 5-Series got plug-in hybrid technology and essentially served as a test bed for future models. And while it’s not as impressive as some of the latest hybrids, it doesn’t mean it’s bad either. The 2020 BMW 530e Base offers a generous all-electric range that is enough to cover most daily commutes. Coupled with an impressively fast charging time and compatibility with Tesla’s supercharging network, the 530e’s hybrid technology becomes very useful despite being relatively old. BMW also included a ton of standard equipment and more than fair pricing. That said, the 530i still has some advantages over the 530e. But before we discover what those are, check out the 5-Series BMWs currently available here at Exotic Car Trader.
The G30 BMW 5-Series came out in 2017 and maintained the same recipe that made the previous generations successful. And that’s sporty looks, engaging driving dynamics, luxurious interior, and powerful engines. However, times are changing and are forcing manufacturers down the EV path. BMW’s first steps down that road, regarding the 5-Series, came with the older generation, which was available as a mild hybrid. But the G30 generation is the first plug-in 5-Series. As such, it can’t compare to the current plug-in hybrids in terms of performance and range, but the electric drivetrain in the 2020 BMW 530e Base was the perfect start. As a result, the 530e constituted over 20% of all 5-Series sales in the US and was included in the top ten best-selling EVs. It’s also worth noting that the 2020 model year is the last one before the mid-cycle refresh. And moving forward, the latest 5-Series is offered with nothing but hybrid drivetrains, including the future M5.
The interior of the 2020 BMW 530e Base is its highlight. Not only does it get generous standard equipment, but it looks and feels extremely luxurious and well-built. Even in the base model, the owner will find brushed aluminum and wood trim throughout the cabin, while leather seats are standard. The infotainment system features the biggest screen BMW had to offer back in 2020, measuring 10.2”. While the digital gauge cluster isn’t as advanced as the latest ones, it’s still extremely functional, and we are sure that a good number of people will like the conventional gauges. Most drivers will also like that it has physical AC controls, not to mention the vast space all around. Moreover, standard equipment also includes a sunroof, heated sports seats, and dual-zone climate controls. Overall, even the base model has everything one could wish for in a premium executive sedan.
Compared to the 530i, the 2020 BMW 530e Base looks much more pedestrian, but the differences between the two are fairly subtle. The biggest difference comes from the front bumper, which, on the 530i, is much sportier with three intakes, as seen on the M5. The 530e, on the other hand, gets a single intake that stretches across the entire width, which doesn’t necessarily make it look worse. Another feature that makes the 530e distinguishable is an electric charging port door on the driver’s side wing. But other than that, the 530e is identical to the 530i. And while the pre-facelift design looks like it was last season compared to the current BMW lineup, it’s not outdated. Moreover, the initial G30 design is arguably the more serious and masculine since the E39. It also gets some nice touches like chrome wing vents, LED tail lights, and chrome trim, so the 530e Base doesn’t look cheap either.
Although the 530e has the same power output as the 530i, the two drivetrains differ substantially. The 530e makes 248 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. That’s nearly 60 lb-ft of torque thanks to the electric motor, adding 68 horsepower to the total output. That means the 2-liter, turbocharged unit is less powerful in the 530e, making 180 horsepower alone. The extra torque helps the 530e maintain a 6.2 second 0-60 time, which is more than respectable considering it gets 72 MPG combined. The top speed is 10 mph lower, but at 146 mph, hardly any driver will notice that. The driver might notice the 4,100-pound curb weight, some 220 lbs. more, which is enough to affect the driving dynamics negatively. As for the hybrid system, the 530e can do 30 miles on electric power alone, taking 3 hours to charge through a 220v outlet or just under 5 hours on a 110v power grid.
With a starting price of $54,895 in 2020, the BMW 530 was quite a bargain, considering that the 530i cost the same. With a few options, the price could easily cross $60,000, with the most notable one being the xDrive four-wheel-drive system, a $3,000 option. Today, you can easily find a 2020 BMW 530e with many options and less than 50,000 miles for around $25,000. Keep in mind that the 5-Series does depreciate fairly quickly, but with half its price gone, it shouldn’t be a huge worry for potential buyers.
The 2020 BMW 530e Base was amazing value for money when it first came out and still is today. With impressive performance, a ton of standard equipment, and extremely impressive fuel economy, the 530e is more car than most drivers will ever need. And whether or not it’s better than the 530i is down to personal preferences. Now, if you are looking to buy a big luxury sedan, an SUV or a supercar, consider buying it through Exotic Car Trader. Not only is the buying process as convenient as it gets, but with included escrow protection, delivery and first inspection, buying a car through Exotic Car Trader is also extremely safe. The same goes if you are looking to sell your current vehicle with Exotic Car Trader, only in that case you save even more of your time.
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