2025 BMW 5 Series launched with diesel engine, is faster than the E34 M5
It features a powerful twin-turbocharged, in-line six-cylinder diesel engine of 3.0 liters, supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system consisting of a motor/generator and a 48-volt battery. BMW says the new 540d xDrive produces 223 kilowatts (303 hp/299 PS) and 670 Nm (494 lb-ft) of torque.
Performance is a little behind the E34 M5 of the late ’80s and early ’90s, and thrust is almost twice as much. That M5 took almost 6.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h and topped out at 250 km/h. The modern diesel-powered 5 Series with xDrive all-wheel drive is far quicker, doing the sprint in just 5.2 seconds. Top speed has not yet been announced, but is likely to be 250 km/h as well.
According to BMW, the new 2025 540d xDrive will be available with metallic paint finishes at no extra cost. The list includes M Carbon Black, Sophisto Gray Brilliant Effect, Black Sapphire, Phytonic Blue, Mineral White, M Brooklyn Gray, Oxide Gray, Cape York Green and Fire Red. BMW Individual Tanzanite Blue, Frozen Deep Gray, Frozen Deep Purple and Frozen Portimao Blue are available as options.
Photo: BMW
This model also features adaptive LED headlights, an illuminated grille, 20-inch M wheels (21-inch available), standard M Sport package, M Sport brakes with dark blue metallic calipers, an automatic trunk lid, adaptive suspension, tire pressure monitoring, a tire repair kit (since there is no spare tire), an alarm system, comfort access, multiple security systems and much more.
Opening the door reveals the premium cockpit, which features heated front sports seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a wireless charging tray, DAB+ radio, M leather steering wheel, BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery, Natural Interaction, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW ConnectedDrive Services, Connected Package Professional, Intelligent Emergency Call, a non-opening panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, interior camera, Bowers & Wilkins audio, etc.
Options include the Comfort Pack (AU$5,700/US$3,793 equivalent), which adds a heated steering wheel, sun blinds, front seat ventilation, heated rear seats and four-zone automatic climate control, and the M Sport Plus (AU$4,200/US$2,795), which includes 21-inch wheels, M brake calipers, M seatbelts, M Lights Shadow Line, M Carbon side mirror caps and a rear spoiler.
As mentioned above, BMW will deliver the new 540d xDrive in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2024 and will charge a minimum of AU$134,900 (US$89,767) for it, which is the recommended retail price and includes GST and LCT but not on-road costs. This model joins the 520i and other 5 Series offerings, as well as the battery-electric i5, in the brand’s local lineup.
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