Skip advert
Advertisement

New BMW 530e iPerformance hybrid 2017 review

Verdict on the new BMW 530e iPerformance hybrid; the first 5 Series that can be plugged in

Overall Auto Express rating

4.0

How we review cars
Avg. savings
£7,414 off RRP*
Find your BMW 5 Series
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

BMW has big plans for its plug-in range and this latest 530e is a pleasing sign of things to come. It represents a key stepping stone for the maker’s forthcoming all-electric models, and works well in daily use. Our favourite exec car just added another string to its electrified bow.

Advertisement - Article continues below

BMW’s plug-in charge continues with the launch of its latest hybrid 5 Series. Its electrified car sales are up 86 per cent year-on-year, with the maker on track to shift 100,000 plug-in or EV models in 2017.

It’s easy to see why. Business users will pay just nine per cent in Benefit in Kind (BiK) tax for a new 530e, saving higher-rate earners more than £3,000 a year over an equivalent 530d (or £2,000 against a 520d) – and that’s before you factor in the 29-mile electric range and claimed 141.2mpg fuel economy.

Best hybrid cars on sale

As we confirmed when we drove the 530e in Europe in April, you’ll need regular access to a charge point to achieve that figure, but the modest range should be enough for most commutes. Charging from empty takes around three hours from a dedicated wallbox or public fast-charger.

BMW is hoping this new iPerformance model will appeal to private buyers, too. Priced on par with the 530d diesel, the PHEV not only offers huge tax savings, but the Government’s plug-in car grant shaves another £2,500 off the list price.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

5 Series

2020 BMW

5 Series

51,970 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £18,299
View 5 Series
5 Series

2020 BMW

5 Series

89,100 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £13,995
View 5 Series
5 Series

2023 BMW

5 Series

27,653 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £29,990
View 5 Series
5 Series

2016 BMW

5 Series

108,320 milesAutomaticDiesel3.0L

Cash £10,395
View 5 Series

It’s a refined cruiser, too. Leave it in Auto eDrive mode and it’ll seamlessly switch between electric and petrol power, while Max eDrive prioritises battery propulsion up to 87mph. You can even use the engine to charge the cells for use later in your journey, although doing this will see fuel economy plummet. The steering is light but direct, while body control is very good. You get the same rear-driven feel as you do in the diesel, plus the ride is satisfactory, if a little firmer than usual. The smooth auto box is lifted from the standard car, but doesn’t slur changes quite so efficiently. Of course, in the car’s EV setting the 530e offers instant, uninterrupted and silent acceleration.

Inside, the 530e lifts our favourite large exec’s cabin unchanged, with the same high-quality dashboard, comfortable seats and intuitive infotainment system. The only hint at the car’s plug-in powertrain is the eDrive button by the gearlever and the bespoke digital dials. Externally, the badges, blue brake calipers and the extra charge port give the game away.

The biggest compromise comes with boot space, which is down 120 litres when compared with the standard 5 Series. It’s less of a dent than you’ll find in a Mercedes E 350 e, though, which loses 140 litres to its diesel sibling. Split-folding rear seats are a £335 option, but there are no plans for a more practical 530e Touring estate.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

RRP £52,195Avg. savings £7,414 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Audi A6

Audi A6

RRP £39,640Avg. savings £7,388 off RRP*Used from £16,990
Mercedes C Class
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,450 off RRP*Used from £11,895
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025