2023 BMW 5 Series Hybrid

The 2023 BMW 5 Series Hybrid is a car that needs little introduction - the 5 has been the go-to luxury vehicle for executives across the US for decades and continues to be a leader in the premium sedan segment. This luxury four-door is a multi-talented machine and, in Hybrid configuration, adds fuel efficiency to its skill set. The BMW 5 Series Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine mated to an electric motor with a 12 kWh battery which delivers 288 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Those aren't massive figures by today's standards, but it makes this exec feel quick on its feet and is more than enough to make it a highway missile.

Priced between $55,550 and $57,850, it's a lot of car for the money. But is it $12,000 better than the more laid-back Lexus ES Hybrid? Or should you spend a bit more and spring for the $61k-plus Volvo S90 Recharge? Based upon the praised CLAR platform, it's certainly one of the more exciting to drive, but competitors to the BMW 5 Series Hybrid have plenty of redeeming qualities as well. Does the electrified 5er still lead the pack?

The BMW M5 is a legend amongst petrol heads and even regular gas models carry a reputation for driver engagement - one would expect some trickle-down in handling prowess to the hybrid, but unfortunately, the new BMW 5 Series Hybrid sedan isn't as fun to drive as we expected it would be. In the city and out on suburban roads, the 5 Series Hybrid cruises around in serene obscurity: there's little steering feedback, and the uninspiring cabin is dead quiet. This is perfect for business people who want to escape the outside world and be cocooned in a bundle of serenity, but those who like to drive won't help but feel that the whole experience is a bit disconnected.

In the bends, the 5 Series Hybrid keeps its composure and certainly isn't bad, but it's not particularly fun, either. The Hybrid powertrain does, however, offer decent punch and feels strong when exiting corners. We'd go for an M-model if fun is the main objective, but most laid-back commuters will be quite happy with what the 5 Series Hybrid offers. Thanks to the PHEV setup, the 2023 530e can cruise silently for up to 21 miles (18 for the xDrive), further adding to the onboard serenity. Even when the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is awake, it hums away quietly and never intrudes.

The 2023 BMW 5 Series Hybrid remains one of the better options in the luxury executive class, and we understand why: it looks great, drives confidently, gets decent fuel economy, and has the right badge on the hood, but is it enough to be the best? We have to admit that it's not the most exciting car to drive - BMW enthusiasts won't be over the moon - but it is comfortable and will satisfy the needs of most. The interior, while well built and luxurious, feels uninspiring and bland, but it does feature a ton of modern tech. And if the safety review for the BMW 5 Series is anything to go by, the Hybrid is safe as houses, although some driver assists are on the options list and not cheap. Power from the 2.0-liter gas and electric powertrain is adequate and never makes the BMW feel slow, but the Volvo S90 Recharge offers significantly more power with similar mpg ratings, albeit at a higher price. If you equip the right options to the 5 Series Hybrid, you'll get a plush eco-friendly executive sedan with loads of comfort and safety features for under $60k.