BMW 530d GT Vs Infiniti EX37 GT: Practical Buyer Comparison

Luxury crossovers blend the practicality of SUVs with the refinement of sedans, and few models capture this essence better than the BMW 530d GT and Infiniti EX37 GT. The BMW offers diesel efficiency and expansive space, while the Infiniti brings bold styling and petrol power. This comparison dives into their engines, ride quality, cabins, and overall appeal to help buyers decide.

Design and Dimensions: Presence on the Road

The BMW 530d GT stands out with its sleek, fastback-inspired silhouette, measuring longer and lower than typical SUVs. Its Gran Turismo body provides a low roofline that enhances aerodynamics without sacrificing headroom. In contrast, the Infiniti EX37 GT adopts a more compact crossover stance, sharing its underpinnings with the smaller G37 sedan, resulting in a taller, narrower profile.

Dimensions play a key role in their appeal:

• BMW 530d GT: Length around 4.99m, wheelbase 3.07m, offering superior rear legroom and cargo capacity.
• Infiniti EX37 GT: Shorter at approximately 4.65m, with a higher ride height suited for urban agility but less interior volume.

Exterior-wise, the BMW’s evolutionary design integrates subtle sportiness, featuring adaptive LED headlights and bold kidney grilles. The Infiniti counters with aggressive creases, a double-arch grille, and 20-inch alloys that demand attention, though its smaller size makes it less imposing in traffic.

Powertrains: Diesel Torque vs Petrol Punch

Engine choices define these vehicles. The BMW 530d GT relies on a 3.0-liter inline-six turbodiesel producing 245 horsepower and a robust 540 Nm of torque from low revs. Paired with an eight-speed automatic, it delivers seamless acceleration—0-60 mph in about 6.3 seconds—and impressive economy at 40+ mpg combined.

The Infiniti EX37 GT offers only a 3.7-liter V6 petrol engine, borrowed from Nissan’s 370Z, with 328 horsepower and 366 Nm. It’s smooth in city driving and explosive in straights (0-60 mph around 6.1 seconds), but lacks mid-range diesel grunt and thirstier at 25 mpg.

Both feature all-wheel drive options, but the BMW’s diesel edges out in real-world usability, especially for long hauls where torque and efficiency shine.

Driving Experience: Balance and Agility

Behind the wheel, the BMW 530d GT impresses with polished dynamics. Its chassis balances comfort and sportiness, absorbing bumps via air suspension while cornering flatly. The diesel’s low-end pull makes overtaking effortless, and steering is precise without being heavy.

The Infiniti EX37 GT prioritizes visual flair over finesse. Its firmer suspension suits spirited drives, delivering sharp handling from the G37 platform. However, the petrol engine feels raucous at high revs, and the taller body introduces more roll in bends. Ride quality is decent but firmer than the BMW’s plush setup.

In mixed conditions, the BMW proves more versatile—quieter on motorways, more composed overall. The Infiniti appeals to those craving raw power, though its noise and thirst limit long-distance comfort.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Cabin quality elevates both, but the BMW leads in space. Front seats are supportive with ample adjustment; rear passengers enjoy limo-like legroom thanks to the sloping roof that still clears heads. Materials feel premium—soft leather, wood inlays, and a logical iDrive system.

The Infiniti’s interior is stylish with metallic accents and leather, but tighter overall. Rear space feels cramped for adults, exacerbated by the crossover height. Tech includes navigation and Bose audio, but the interface lags behind BMW’s intuitiveness.

Boot space favors the BMW at 500+ liters expanding to 1,700, versus Infiniti’s 420 liters. Family haulers will prefer the 5 Series GT’s versatility.

Technology and Safety Features

Both pack advanced kit for their era. BMW offers adaptive cruise, lane assist, night vision, and a head-up display. Infiniti counters with around-view cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and intelligent cruise control.

Safety ratings are strong, with BMW’s diesel emitting lower CO2 (around 160g/km) versus Infiniti’s 260g/km, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.

Pricing and Ownership Costs

Launched around 2010, the BMW started at £45,000, undercutting rivals with diesel value. Infiniti aimed lower at £42,000, leveraging petrol power and AWD. Running costs favor BMW—cheaper fuel, better residuals, denser dealer network.

Today, used examples see BMW holding value better due to brand prestige and efficiency.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Wins and Why?

The BMW 530d GT emerges victorious for its blend of space, efficiency, dynamics, and refinement. It suits families, executives, and efficiency seekers. The Infiniti EX37 GT shines for style-focused drivers wanting petrol thrill, but compromises on practicality limit its appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has better fuel economy?

The BMW 530d GT achieves over 40 mpg, far surpassing the Infiniti’s 25 mpg.

Is the Infiniti more powerful?

Yes, with 328 hp versus 245 hp, but BMW’s torque provides stronger real-world pull.

How do they compare in size?

BMW is larger and roomier; Infiniti is more compact.

What’s the boot space difference?

BMW offers 500+ liters; Infiniti around 420 liters.

Are they still good used buys?

BMW holds value better due to reliability and network; Infiniti rarer but cheaper.