While the BMW M5 often steals the spotlight with its incredible 600 horsepower, the reality is that most drivers opting for a 2020 BMW 5 Series choose models other than the high-performance M5. For those seeking a blend of exhilarating performance and everyday luxury, the 2020 Bmw 540i emerges as a compelling and often overlooked choice.
Today, we delve into the details of the 2020 BMW 540i, a variant that stands out within the extensive 5 Series lineup for its impressive power, refined comfort, and dynamic driving experience. It might not boast the M5’s headline-grabbing horsepower, but the turbocharged 540i delivers a potent punch while maintaining the luxury, sophistication, and daily usability that discerning buyers prioritize. Positioned in a competitive segment against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E 450, Audi A6, and Lexus GS, the 2020 BMW 540i proves itself as a true sports sedan in the classic BMW tradition, deserving of more recognition than it typically receives. Its sales success speaks volumes about its appeal to those in the market for a premium sedan that balances performance and luxury.
Premium Pricing for Potent Performance
For the 2020 model year, BMW adjusted the prices across most of the 5 Series range, with a modest increase of approximately $500. The starting MSRP for a rear-wheel-drive 2020 BMW 540i begins at $60,445, inclusive of a $995 destination charge. This places it slightly above the 2020 Mercedes E 450, which notably includes all-wheel drive as standard. Opting for the 2020 BMW 540i xDrive, equipped with BMW’s intelligent all-wheel-drive system, brings the price to around $62,745. This represents about a $5,000 premium over the less powerful 530i xDrive, highlighting the value proposition of the 540i’s enhanced performance.
Beneath the lightweight aluminum hood resides BMW’s renowned 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a powerplant shared with models like the 340i and the Z4 roadster. In the 2020 BMW 540i, this engine is officially rated at 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. While on paper, this appears less potent compared to the Mercedes E 450, automotive enthusiasts widely believe that BMW’s inline-six is significantly underrated. Industry speculation suggests the actual output is closer to 400 horsepower. Complementing this robust engine is a seamlessly smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, featuring paddle shifters for manual control and a Sport mode to sharpen responsiveness.
Exhilarating Acceleration and Driving Dynamics
The combination of the 2020 BMW 540i’s potent engine and the sure-footed traction of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system translates to remarkable off-the-line acceleration. Even with moderate throttle input, the 540i delivers a noticeable surge of power, pressing occupants firmly into their seats. Engaging full throttle unleashes the engine’s true potential, providing rapid acceleration thanks to the engine’s ample low-end torque and smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. The eight-speed automatic transmission executes crisp upshifts at wide-open throttle, maintaining continuous acceleration through perfectly matched gear ratios. Unleashed, the 2020 BMW 540i is capable of reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.
BMW officially states that the 2020 BMW 540i xDrive accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.6 seconds. This figure is a few tenths of a second quicker than the rear-wheel-drive variant. While it’s approximately a second slower than the V8-powered M550i, it outpaces the Mercedes E 450 in acceleration and is significantly quicker than the all-wheel-drive 530i, further solidifying its position as a performance-oriented luxury sedan.
Confident and Composed Handling
Unlike the M5’s all-wheel-drive system, which offers a selectable rear-wheel-drive mode, the 2020 BMW 540i’s xDrive system is permanently engaged. However, in practice, this is not a limitation. The 540i exhibits a handling character that often feels akin to rear-wheel drive, even when navigating tight corners. Its responsive turn-in and overall agility belie the fact that power is being distributed to all four wheels. The steering remains communicative, devoid of any unusual sensations often associated with all-wheel-drive systems. The result is an exceptional level of grip, instilling confidence in various driving conditions.
The test vehicle featured the optional Dynamic Handling Package, which incorporates active roll stabilization and electronically adjustable dampers. This package further elevates the sedan’s cornering prowess, minimizing body roll even during aggressive maneuvers. While the steering feel might not be as intensely communicative as some classic BMW models, the 2020 BMW 540i offers exceptional steering response and remarkable high-speed stability. The vehicle feels planted and secure at any speed, riding on its 18-inch wheels. The M Sport brakes on the test vehicle, distinguished by blue calipers adorned with the M badge, also impressed. They provide strong stopping power, excellent pedal feel, and are surprisingly affordable as an option at $650.
Customizable Performance with Driving Modes
The 2020 BMW 540i offers drivers a range of driving modes, selectable via a button on the center console, to tailor the car’s behavior to their preferences and driving conditions. Eco Pro mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by moderating throttle response and overall performance. In Comfort mode, the 540i strikes a balance, offering a relaxed and comfortable ride more akin to a traditional luxury sedan, while still maintaining ample responsiveness. Although the engine’s power remains readily available, the eight-speed automatic transmission becomes less eager to downshift for quick bursts of acceleration, and gear changes become virtually imperceptible.
Engaging Sport mode transforms the 2020 BMW 540i into a more dynamic machine. The suspension firms up, enhancing body control, while still maintaining a comfortable ride. Sport mode also adds weight to the steering and sharpens throttle response. The transmission becomes more alert, holding gears for longer and executing firmer shifts. Utilizing the paddle shifters in Sport mode allows for precise manual gear changes, with the transmission seamlessly rev-matching on downshifts.
Refined and Comfortable Cabin
Stepping inside the 2020 BMW 540i reveals a modern and inviting cabin, blending technological sophistication with a warm ambiance. While it may not feature the overtly futuristic or visually extravagant designs found in the Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6, the BMW’s more traditional approach is arguably more timeless. This design philosophy ensures the interior will likely age gracefully, avoiding the risk of feeling dated in the near future.
The quality of materials within the 2020 BMW 540i’s interior is exceptional, and the build quality is impeccable. Fit and finish are top-tier, rivaling the best in the industry. The seats are firm yet supportive, providing excellent bolstering and long-distance comfort. Rear-seat space is competitive for the class, comfortably accommodating three adults across. BMW’s digital instrument cluster, while visually busy, and featuring a counterclockwise tachometer sweep that requires an adjustment period, is generally well-executed. The 2020 BMW 540i’s interior is ergonomically sound and undeniably luxurious. The latest iteration of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system is intuitive to navigate, offering both touchscreen functionality and a traditional rotary dial and button interface on the center console. Onboard Wi-Fi is included as standard.
Practical Storage and Cargo Space
The 2020 BMW 540i excels in providing ample storage solutions within the cabin. The center console offers a generously sized storage bin, and the door pockets are also quite spacious. However, the front cupholders are somewhat undersized and positioned slightly awkwardly ahead of the gear shifter, potentially interfering with climate controls when accommodating larger drinks.
Trunk space is a significant advantage of the 2020 BMW 540i. Boasting 18.7 cubic feet of cargo volume, it offers considerably more trunk capacity than both the Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6. The rear seats also feature a 40/20/40 split-folding design to further expand cargo-carrying versatility. A power-operated trunk lid is included as part of the Convenience Package, along with heated front seats and satellite radio.
Advanced Safety Technology
BMW equips the 2020 BMW 540i with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems. However, it’s worth noting that some of these are offered as extra-cost options, which may be unexpected given the vehicle’s premium price point. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with low-speed collision mitigation, lane-departure warning, active blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and daytime pedestrian detection.
BMW’s Active Protection System is also standard, preparing the vehicle for a potential impact by automatically pretensioning seat belts, closing windows and the sunroof, and initiating post-crash braking to minimize the risk of secondary collisions. Parking sensors and adaptive cruise control are available as optional extras. The BMW 5 Series has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the organization’s highest safety accolade.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency
Considering its performance capabilities, the 2020 BMW 540i delivers surprisingly good fuel economy for its class. Both the rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions achieve EPA fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. This efficiency is commendable given the vehicle’s robust performance, although the turbocharged engine does necessitate the use of premium fuel. In comparison, the Mercedes-Benz E 450 is rated at 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, also requiring premium fuel.
The entry-level BMW 530i, powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offers even greater fuel efficiency than the six-cylinder 540i. The rear-wheel-drive 530i achieves EPA ratings of 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. While BMW has discontinued the diesel-powered 540d, the 530e plug-in hybrid remains available as the most fuel-efficient model in the 5 Series lineup.
A Truly Exceptional Luxury Sedan
In recent years, BMW has faced criticism from some automotive media outlets for producing vehicles that have become less focused on outright sportiness, prioritizing luxury and comfort instead. Critics argue that BMW has lost its edge, sacrificing performance and driver engagement in pursuit of refinement.
While there may be some validity to these claims in certain BMW models, the 2020 BMW 540i stands as a compelling counterpoint. It effectively balances luxury and performance, excelling in both domains. It provides a pampering and refined experience when desired, yet transforms into a genuine sports sedan when pushed, exhibiting impressive agility and dynamic capabilities. For those seeking a luxurious four-door sedan that is genuinely enjoyable to drive, the 2020 BMW 540i represents an outstanding choice.
