Posted in car review

#41 2014 BMW 5-Series – Refreshed and more up market

 Published Date: 02/22/2020
The 2014 5-series range is preparing to strengthen on its standout presence in the world’s car market with the help of cutting-edge technological innovations and modified design features. The introduction of the new 5-Series provides the latest highlight in the development of the company’s longest-serving model family. The 5-Series has been a fixture in the BMW portfolio since 1972 – longer than any other current BMW model. It didn’t take the 5-Series long to establish itself as a shining example of driving pleasure and aesthetic appeal in its segment. To date, over 6.6 million BMW 5-Series cars have left the factory. A total of more than one million units of the outgoing BMW 5-Series saloon have been delivered to customers since its sales launch in March 2010. No other generation has clocked such sales figures over such a short period of time.
2014 BMW 5-Series 

Design
Sporting elegance is the standout characteristic of the 2014 BMW 5-Series saloon. The design is defined by the hallmark BMW proportions created by a long bonnet, long wheelbase, short overhangs and set-back passenger compartment. At the front end, additional contour lines for the BMW kidney grille surround and the restructured lower air intake accentuate the car’s sporting appearance. All the variants of the 2014 BMW 5-Series model family are fitted with Xenon headlights as standard. Joining the LED fog lamps on the options list are Adaptive LED Headlights. Horizontally structured and three-dimensional surfaces play a defining role in the new look of the rear end.
Restyled front 

Performance
A host of optimised details included in all variants of the 2014 BMW 5-Series have led to reduced fuel consumption, but with no drop-off in sporting ability. A new entry-level diesel variant, an additional model equipped with xDrive all-wheel drive and a new powerful, efficient range-topping V8 power plant joins the action. The 2014 BMW 5-Series saloon can be specified with a choice of four petrol and six diesel engines.

Refined power units 

The power unit line-up covers an output spectrum from 105 kW/143 hp to 330 kW/450 hp. The 2014 BMW 5-Series’ cutting-edge chassis technology delivers a balance of dynamic performance and ride comfort. The Electric Power Steering system comes with Servotronic speed-sensitive power assistance as standard. All models come standard with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are optional.

Profile remains unchanged 

Interior
New details inside the 2014 BMW 5-Series provide a refined premium impression and increased functionality. In all models the Control Display of the standard iDrive operating system is now bordered on both sides by high-quality chrome trim strips. Generous levels of space, exquisite materials and high-quality workmanship all contribute to the premium ambience characteristic of the 2014 BMW 5-Series.

Cockpit 

The iDrive Controller can be ordered as an option with a touch-sensitive surface allowing character recognition. Another option new to the 5-series is the multifunction instrument display designed to enhance driving pleasure. This 10.25-inch TFT cockpit screen takes its cues from the Driving Experience Control mode selected. Varying graphics and colour schemes ensure clear differentiation.

Tweaked rear 

Verdict

BMW’s most profitable model is now one of its best creations. The firm has addressed key criticisms without ruining the strengths of the old car, and wrapped it up in a successful new body with subtle detailing that grows on you. The noticeable design tweaks and the revamped power units raise the 5-series’ appeal to a new level.