BMW 5-Series is the best-selling BMW model after the BMW 3-Series. Even though this series has several models to its name, the BMW 528i is one of the most outstanding models in its class.
The BMW 528i is a midsize luxury sedan with excellent build quality, a stylish exterior, excellent handling, and outstanding performance. This car can accommodate up to five people, and it has four doors. What’s more, it is one of the most fuel-efficient BMWs on the market.
History of the BMW 528i
BMW introduced the first-generation of 5-Series in 1972. The first model was known as the E12. In 1979, the BMW 5-Series became the 528i, which symbolized the new 2.8-liter straight-six with a catalytic converter and an oxygen sensor. This model performed better than its predecessor, but its horsepower dropped to 169 hp from 176 hp.
The biggest breakthrough for the BMW 528i came in 1997 when BMW built a bigger but lighter model with improved handling and excellent ride quality. It is also one of the best BMW 5-Series ever built, and it was in its fourth generation. The E39 5-Series was also equipped with a 2.8-liter straight-six, but more horsepower (190 hp).
After its success, the BMW 528i morphed into the BMW 530i. Additionally, the final BMW 528i was manufactured in 2016.
Read about all the most common BMW 528i problems.
Features of the BMW 528i
Appearance
The BMW 528i is a true definition of a BMW. This car may be fun to drive, but it has a sporty design that will attract attention as you cruise down the highway. Whether it is a 2004 model or a 2016 model, the BMW 528i still stands out from the competition.
The interior of the BMW 528i is also luxurious with some of the latest technologies. It comes with leather seats, a leather steering wheel, woodgrain interior trim, sunroof, power passenger seat, seat memory, seat massage, and much more.
The BMW 528i comes with a wheelbase of 116.9-inches, a length of 193.4-inches, a width of 73.2-inches, and a height of 57.6-inches. On top of that, it has a front width of 63-inches and a rear width of 64.1-inches.
Performance
If you want a BMW sedan that’s not only comfortable and advanced but also with a nice ride, the 2016 BMW 528i is the answer. This car performs exceptionally well, it’s powerful and easy to handle. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 engine. The engine produces a maximum of 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.
Additionally, the BMW 528i comes with 8-speed automatic transmission and has a rear-wheel-drive system. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 in just 6.2 seconds, and it has a top speed of 147 mph, which is excellent and better than most cars in its class.
Comfort and Cargo space
The BMW 528i is a spacious and comfortable car. It is also practical as it can host up to 5 people. However, the front row is more spacious than the rear row. Thanks to the ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room. Aside from being spacious, it has a luxurious cabin with classy trims and an excellent infotainment system.
People who love traveling will fall in love with the 14 cubic ft of space that this car comes within its trunk. So, there’s ample space for sizeable luggage.
Fuel efficiency
BMW 528i is one of the most fuel-efficient BMWs on the market. It has an EPA rating of 23 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. This is better than even the BMW 3-Series or 6-Series. So, it saves money on fuel and pollutes the environment less.
Price
Since the BMW 528i is no longer being made, you can find a used model for about $20,000 to 50,000. This is quite affordable considering the excellent features and performance the BMW 528i offers. Note that the price will vary according to the features that it comes with. For instance, the BMW 528i xDrive sedan is costlier than the base model.
FAQ
Is the BMW 528i fast?
Yes, the BMW 528i is a fast car. If you compare the 2016 BMW 528i to its competitors, you will find that it’s one of the fastest cars. Thanks to its powerful naturally aspirated 2.8-liter 24v inline-6 engine that produces up to 240 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 6.2 seconds. Furthermore, it has a top speed of 147 mph.
Is BMW 528i expensive to maintain?
Yes, the BMW 528i is expensive to maintain. Like most BMWs, this car develops lots of mechanical issues, which might need repair and maintenance. But unlike most mainstream cars, BMW parts are expensive, driving the cost of repair and maintenance high. Also, BMW’s service is high compared to its competitors.
What is the high mileage of BMW 528i?
As long as you adhere to scheduled repair and maintenance and exercise proper driving habits, your car should last over 300,000 miles. But on average, the BMW 528i should do over 250,000 miles. Some BMW 528i owners have clocked over 500,000 miles, which is very impressive.
Does BMW 5-Series have a lot of problems?
BMW 5-Series have more problems compared to mainstream cars. But if you compare them to other BMW series, only the BMW 3-Series is more reliable. Some of the common BMW 5-Series issues are coolant leaks, oil leaks from the engine, air conditioning issues, and faulty fuel pump.
Which BMW 5-Series is better – 528i or 535i?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want outstanding power and top-notch luxury, the BMW 535i is the best option. But if you want a cheaper car to maintain with a lower fuel usage rate, then the BMW 528i is the best choice. Note that the BMW 535i comes with real leather upholstery, while the BMW 528i comes with leatherette seating.
Conclusion
BMW 528i is one of the best BMW 5-Series to be produced. Not only is this car beautifully designed, but it also performs outstandingly, has excellent handling, and it comes with an excellent fit and finishes. What’s more, it is very fuel-efficient and can accommodate up to five people.
Nonetheless, the initial price of the BMW 528i is quite high, and the cost of maintenance and repair is also somewhat high. But when compared to other BMW models, it is more reliable and offers great value for money.
