Following the global launch of the G30 BMW 5-Series, the Bavarian giant was quick to introduce the hot M Performance kit to go along with their new model. Now, details of the 530e iPerformance has just surfaced and the plug-in hybrid business saloon sure looks like an exciting proposition.
Let’s get performance out of the way, shall we? The 530e packs the same powertrain setup as the 330e and X5 xDrive40e; albeit in different states of tune. As such, you get a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder pushing out 184 hp and 320 Nm which is paired to a 95 hp and 250 Nm electric motor. Together, the eDrive system’s rated output is 252 hp and 420 Nm. Power is sent to the rear-wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.
Performance figures on the 530e is as impressive as the car itself. Century sprint is clocked in 6.2 seconds while top speed is registered at 235km/h. The 9.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers 47km of a pure electric range and boasts a top speed of 140km/h. It’s strategically located underneath the rear seats for clever packaging. Even so, boot space is just slightly compromised, measuring at at 410 litres versus the non-hybrid’s 530 litres. A full charge (from empty) takes just under five hours from a standard domestic power socket or under three hours when plugged to a BMW i Wallbox.
Unique to BMW hybrid models is the eDrive button, which joins the other drive modes (Sport Comfort and Eco Pro). The eDrive toggles the hybrid system in three separate modes – Auto eDrive (hybrid mode for maximum efficiency), Max eDrive (pure electric mode) and Battery Control (charges the battery). Battery Control mode allows the driver to set the target battery charge between 30 to 100 percent.
The eDrive gets unique styling cues to differentiate this plug-in hybrid model such as blue accents on the kidney grille, blue wheel cover hubs, eDrive emblems and 530e badging at the rear lid.
A host of passive safety features are available on the 530e, such as evasion aid, crossing traffic warning, Lane Change Assistant and Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection. However, the Active Cruise Control is an option. 
Since the BMW 330e here is so well received, we can safely assume that the 530e will also be joining the G30 lineup when the model gets launched next March. What do you think, folks? A fully decked out G30 530e at an irresistible price. Tempted? We sure are!
IMAGE GALLERY
