2013 BMW 530d M Sport review, test drive

    The updated 530d sports an M badge. But are the changes only cosmetic, or is there more beneath its sporty exterior?

    Published on Oct 18, 2013 04:36:00 AM

    3,82,746 Views

    The 530d not only feels fast, the times we got confirm this too. It takes 6.11 seconds to reach 100kph, which is 0.5sec faster than the old car, and 200kph comes up in a very impressive 25.03 seconds. These times are thanks to the launch control the 530d comes equipped with, and are incredible when you consider that this car is quite heavy at 1.8 tonnes and has a diesel motor powering it. 
     
     
    The big disappointment is the steering, which simply doesn’t feel like a BMW unit anymore. It’s got a dead zone around the straight-ahead position and simply misses the feel that the old 5’s steering had. BMW has also gone softer on the springs, which results in a ride that’s a lot more absorbent, but leads to excessive body roll around corners. But when you consider that buyers in this segment prefer coasting rather than going ballistic around corners, it’s a legitimate compromise. 
     
    At Rs 57.90 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the 530d M Sport is priced really well when you consider what it offers. It’s got a strong engine, quality interiors and now looks and feels sportier too. It not only gives you brilliant performance, but, being a diesel, it doesn’t hurt your wallet either. 

    Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.

    Comments
    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now
    Search By Car Price
    Poll of the month

    What do you think of the Jaguar rebrand?

    It's too radical and ignores the brand's legacy

     

    57.42%

    It's exactly what's needed to revive a dying brand

     

    10.60%

    It's fine as long as the products are good

     

    31.98%

    Total Votes : 566
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe