2017 BMW 5 Series M Sport Review: Expert Performance Guide

The 2017 BMW 5 Series M Sport stands out as a pinnacle of engineering in the midsize luxury sedan category, offering a perfect fusion of sporty dynamics, executive comfort, and state-of-the-art technology. This seventh-generation model, built on a lighter chassis with advanced materials, delivers enhanced agility without sacrificing everyday usability. Reviewers consistently praise its balanced ride, potent engines, and intuitive infotainment, positioning it as a versatile choice for business professionals, families, and enthusiasts alike.

Design and Exterior Styling

The exterior of the 2017 BMW 5 Series M Sport exudes a more aggressive yet elegant presence compared to its predecessor. The M Sport package adds distinctive features like a lowered suspension, larger kidney grilles, aerodynamic side skirts, and 19-inch alloy wheels, giving it a planted, muscular stance. Its dimensions—approximately 4,936mm long, 1,868mm wide, and 1,479mm tall—strike a balance between imposing road presence and maneuverability in urban settings.

LED headlights with optional adaptive matrix technology provide superior nighttime visibility, while the sleek roofline and subtle character lines enhance aerodynamics. Available in sedan and Touring (estate) variants, the wagon offers added practicality with a spacious boot capacity of up to 1,700 liters when seats are folded. This design philosophy emphasizes both form and function, appealing to those seeking a premium look that performs.

Interior Comfort and Quality

Step inside, and the cabin impresses with its quiet refinement and high-quality materials. Despite lacking acoustically insulated glass, the interior remains hushed, thanks to improved sound deadening and a roughly 100-pound weight reduction that contributes to smoother operation. Luxurious leather upholstery, ambient lighting with multiple color options, and soft-touch surfaces create an upscale ambiance suitable for long journeys.

• Spacious front seats with multi-way electric adjustments and memory functions for driver and passenger.
• Rear legroom accommodates adults comfortably, with enough space for three child seats across, though only outer positions have ISOFIX mounts.
• Ergonomic dashboard layout prioritizes driver focus, with a larger 10.25-inch head-up display offering 75% more area than before for navigation and speed readouts.

The M Sport interior includes sport seats with enhanced bolstering for better support during spirited driving, complemented by aluminum or wood trims. Climate control with four zones ensures personalized comfort, making it ideal for executive travel.

Powertrains and Performance

BMW’s 2017 5 Series lineup features efficient turbocharged engines paired exclusively with an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and quick response in sport modes. Key options include:

The 540i xDrive, with all-wheel drive, accelerates to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and quarters a mile in 13.2 seconds at 109 mph, showcasing track-ready prowess. Diesel variants like the 520d offer impressive refinement and economy, ideal for high-mileage drivers. Paddle shifters allow manual control, though the transmission’s logic handles most scenarios flawlessly.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

What truly sets the 2017 5 Series M Sport apart is its chassis prowess. A 100kg weight reduction using carbon fiber and aluminum enhances agility, making it feel more athletic than the prior model. The M Sport suspension, lowered and stiffened, delivers flat cornering with precise steering that builds weight progressively, minimizing understeer or oversteer.

• Optional adaptive dampers adjust firmness on the fly, balancing sportiness and compliance over potholes.
• Improved ride quality absorbs imperfections better, even on run-flat tires.
• xDrive all-wheel drive provides relentless grip in varied conditions.

On highways, it glides serenely; on twisty roads, it hustles with poise. UK-tuned chassis ensures comfort on local surfaces, self-levelling air suspension on Tourings adds stability when loaded.

Technology and Driver Assistance

The iDrive infotainment system shines with a larger touchscreen, gesture controls, and seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Apps run smoothly, outpacing competitors.

Safety tech includes Active Driving Plus: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping that steers hands-free for up to 45 seconds, and automatic lane overtaking at speeds up to 150 mph. Other features: traffic jam assist, evasive steering aid, and a 360-degree camera. Phone-as-key functionality adds convenience.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality

Efficiency impresses, with figures from 4.3-6.7L/100km depending on model. The sedan boot holds 530 liters; Touring expands to 1,700 liters. Fuel tank capacity of 66 liters supports long ranges, perfect for motorway cruising.

Safety Ratings and Ownership

Euro NCAP awarded five stars, praising robust structure and active safety. Ownership costs are premium, but reliability is strong. Base pricing started around $50,000, with M Sport adding value through options.

Pros and Cons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In summary, the 2017 BMW 5 Series M Sport redefines the executive sedan with its all-around excellence, from thrilling performance to practical luxury.