What would you say if someone asked you what you think about the 2019 BMW 530e xDrive? If you’ve not had a drive in one of them, there’s a likelihood that you’ll reel of talking about many things. The 530e xDrive is an excellent car, to start with, and although it has basic performance, it’s more than pleasant to drive. And with 15 miles of range and instant electric torque courtesy of the electric motor, you should have fun driving it. Here are our thoughts on this PHEV - is it worth it?
The 530e model is a more recent addition to the 5 Series lineup, which has existed since the 1970s. It was introduced as part of the seventh generation of the 5 Series in 2017 and fuses BMW’s signature luxury with modern hybrid technology. BMW didn’t stop at that; they added the xDrive system to further enhance the 530e’s appeal. For the 2019 model year, BMW focused on refining the 530e’s strengths and improving its weaknesses. This improvement allowed drivers to cover more ground on electric power, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, BMW also improved the iDrive infotainment system, enhanced connectivity options, and tweaked the existing safety features to make the car a lot better and safer to drive.
With 248 horses to spare, you’d think the 530e xDrive isn’t powerful enough. However, your perspective will change when you get behind the wheel and hit the throttle on an open road. When you pop the hood, a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor will stare at you. As mentioned, it makes a combined output of 248 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This setup allows you to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, which is decent, with the xDrive system ready to give you stable handling and grip. As a plug-in hybrid unit, you can get 15 miles of range from the electric motor - and this is perfect for short commutes. The 2019 530e xDrive’s hybrid powertrain offers a balanced mix of efficiency and power, distinguishing it from rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E300e and the Volvo S90 T8, which are also hybrids. Contrasting it with other 530 variants, the 530e integrates clean energy technology without sacrificing the driving prowess BMW is renowned for. For instance, the more traditional BMW 530i utilizes a similar 2.0-liter turbocharged engine sans the electric motor, delivering 248 horsepower that matches the 530e's output. However, the 530e's electric motor provides additional torque, resulting in a swift response that is particularly beneficial in urban driving conditions.
The interior of the 530e xDrive is adorned with premium materials throughout the cabin. You'll enjoy ample legroom with over 41 inches in the front and nearly 36 inches in the rear. Standard features include Dakota leather upholstery, an advanced iDrive infotainment system, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The seats are supportive and adjustable up to 8 ways. With the windows wound up, you’ll notice the interior is quiet, save for the engine’s purr, which you can barely hear. The attention to detail is apparent in every aspect, from the soft-touch surfaces to the precise stitching on the upholstery and the Fineline Ridge wood and Aluminum Rhombicle trim pieces. The comfort amenities extend to a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, and ambient lighting, to mention a few.
The exterior of the 2019 BMW 530e xDrive is sleek and measures 195.8 inches in length, with a wheelbase of 117.1 inches. It has a balanced, poised stance and retains the familiar BMW kidney grille and LED headlights. The 530e comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, which you can ditch for 19 or 20-inch alternatives. The rear of the 2019 BMW 530e xDrive elegantly complements its front facade with LED taillights, a stylish bumper, and integrated exhaust tips. The trunk features a hands-free access system, and on the sides are appropriately sized side mirrors that give you a clear view of your rear. The panoramic moonroof, available as an option, also offers an expansive sky view.
The 530e xDrive has the Drive 6.0 multimedia interface running in its infotainment system. It offers access to navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Heads-Up Display and a surround-view camera system are optional additions. Driver assistance technologies such as Active Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Spot Detection are present. If you’re a fan, you can choose the optional Gesture Control feature and control your vehicle with the gestures. The Live Cockpit Professional package is present in the 2019 530e xDrive. It comprises a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch central display. This comprehensive setup provides crucial driving information, from speed and navigation guidance to infotainment options. BMW Active Driving Assistant is a part of the standard driving package. It includes Collision Mitigation, Parking Assistant Plus, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert features. The Park Distance Control sensors on the front and rear offer audio and visual alerts to assist with parking. To round out the tech offerings, we have BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant, a cutting-edge voice-activated system that can learn your preferences, set your favorite music, adjust the climate control, and even provide information about car functionality.
As of the model year 2019, a new BMW 530e xDrive started at around $55,000, aligning with the broader 5 Series pricing spectrum. However, market fluctuations and optional features influenced this base cost. Used models, however, offer an attractive alternative if you’re seeking luxury at a lower price point. The 2019 530e xDrive’s price typically ranges from $22,000 to $35,000, depending on mileage, condition, and select features.
This 2019 BMW 530e xDrive is a plug-in hybrid that gives you the pleasure of the 5 Series experience while helping you share the sustainability idea. It’s comfortable to drive, has decent power up its sleeves, and doesn’t lack the technology features that make driving easy and worthwhile. Exotic Car Trader is a recommended platform to explore because of its vast inventory of cars for those interested in buying or selling. You can also list your vehicle for sale easily on Exotic Car Trader.
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