BMW 540i: technical specifications, pictures and reviews

A cluster of models and facelifted versions BMW fifth series in recent years has been updated with packages M Performance. The Bavarian manufacturer has long indulged its fans with interesting variations on successful cars on sport, but in this case, the transformation has got a distinct look, even against a well-established strategy. Update BMW 540i M Performance is wide ranging – this is not a cosmetic correction, which is often used even by large manufacturers to give the brutal style, but no more. The package addressed the parameters of the power plant, which will also interest lovers of sports riding.

General information about the series

The Peak of popularity of the BMW 5 series came in the second half of the 90s, when morally outdated E34 body was replaced by the restrained design of the E39, which is relished by motorists for its harmonious design and practicality. In addition, the novelty has made a significant step forward stylistically advanced interior and optional add-ons. On the conveyor BMW 540i E39 remained until 2004, when the time is ripe substantial revision in the exterior design. The period of searching for new solutions lasted almost 15 years, and the most notable proposal of the Bavarians during this time was the F10 generation.

The Seventh generation of the series with index G30 was created with the expectation of a fundamentally different queries both in design and ergonomics, and technology. Business sedan in the execution of G30 BMW 540i looks solid and presentable, and demonstrates a modern management system, communication and some aerodynamic innovations. Even if you compare the new product with the nearest relative of the F10, the difference will be seen in almost every parameter. Now it is necessary to consider the characteristics of the most outstanding representatives in the series.

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Features E39

By the standards of life car models, these designs have existed for quite a long period, acquiring all new versions and configurations. Today, BMW 540i E39, technical characteristics of which are presented below, attracts motorists in most of its practicality and a recognizable bright exterior comes from the 90's:

• Number of doors-4.
• The Type of power unit – V8.
• The Volume of the engine – 4398 cubic cm
• Power potential – 286 HP
• Speed limit – 250 km/h.
• Transmission-mechanical and automatic 5-speed.
• Body Size – 4775х1435х1800 mm.
• Ground Clearance-120 mm.
• Total weight-2170 lbs.
• Luggage compartment – 460 L.

Features of the basic version of G30

Before the revision of the sports Atelier BMW, model given some way, but he was overwhelmed by the demands to a premium sedan. And yet the traditional version, which was implemented in the package M Performance, and had some claim to power returns at the level of sports cars. Again, this applies to the category of sedans, which is primarily attributable G30 BMW 540i. Technical characteristics of the platform, which was later modified sports tuning, can be represented as follows:

• Engine capacity – 1998 cubic cm
• Power potential – 252 HP
• Acceleration to “hundreds” - 420 Nm.
• Flow rate – an average of 7.4 liters per 100 km.
• Size – 4936х1868х1466 mm.
• Clearance – 144 mm.
• Luggage Capacity-530 l.

Modification Touring

In between the development of Central generation that continues the spirit of the 5 Series sedans, the Bavarian manufacturer turned to third-party modifications. In this regard, and electrified version, but rather a mass modification in the station wagon. The car was a Touring console and was developed on the E39 platform. It should be noted that this option is, perhaps, to the greatest extent can be considered a sport if you treat it in the standard line. In the future, along with two other members of the series BMW 540i Touring in the performance also received items from the M-package. Today, the universal is supplied with the 4.4-litre V8 providing 300 HP as transmission applied mechanics Getrag 6 steps. According to many experts, in this modification, one of the best ligaments transmission and engine, and that led to quite good handling.

Characteristics of the engine M Performance

At the dawn of the formation of the index 540 meant the cars belonging to the family, equipped with V8 engines. For the most part the car and have kept this principle of identification, albeit with significant reservations. In particular, the modern representatives V6 540i provided, however, supplemented by a turbocharger. These versions constitute the petrol line package M Performance, which is applied to G30. This model received the unit for 340 HP, allowing it to accelerate to “hundreds” in just 5.1 seconds. According to some estimates, this figure exceeds even the records of diesel plants with all-wheel drive xDrive. Those who wish to get even greater effect from the gasoline engine, is also recommended to purchase all-wheel drive version of the BMW 540i. The characteristics of torque, too – is 450 Nm, which, however, at 170 Nm less than the diesel version, 530d. But in the deadlift it is logical that the unit is heavyfuel will show a more attractive figure. It would seem that the excess torque for the average user to anything. Especially given the power of the additive from M-package. But the difference will be noticeable in assessing the quality of transmission operation in conjunction with the turbo engine. If you compare two cars with all-wheel drive xDrive, in terms of handling the mechanics of using diesel will be profitable in daily use. However, the transmission deserves a separate discussion.

Implementation of the transmission

In the 90s, the BMW designers have experimented with combinations of powerful engines and manual gearbox. At that time, there were two problems – massive unitary mechanism with the appreciation of integration and the growing demands on the reliability of the device. With automatic transmission, the situation was no easier, but the problem eventually was solved. Today as the basic solution offers mechanical and automatic transmission system ZF. According to users, in both designs, the mechanism responds quickly, confirming the prevailing view of good handling BMW 540i independently of the engine. For those looking for a modern hi-tech solutions should offer the configuration with the 8-speed gearbox Steptronic platform. In addition to extending the range of the box, new mechanisms are proposed and a dense bunch of sensors. For example, an infrared camera with ceiling sensors tracks the position and movement of the hand in the area of the selector. Control is by buttons, which also will have to adapt, not forgetting the additional control of electronic assistants.

Optional software

The Family has got several structural enhancements from the Performance package, which accentuate the sporty style like the M-steering wheel and M-brakes, but main content still is in electronic systems. In particular, there is an innovative device to minimise roll – Dynamic Drive. Even in conditions of dynamic high-spirited flying passengers practically do not feel the problem areas of the road surface. The system of active cruise control helps BMW 540i G30 consistently to stick to the speed limits range from 0 to 210 km/h. the calculation of the optimum mode is based on the traffic situation – electronics is oriented to the position relative to the car in front, and on colleagues back. Deserves a special mention and Adaptive Drive. It allows you to adjust the stiffness of shock absorbers under specific conditions, while interacting with the mechanisms of stabilization and cruise control.

Reviews about the exterior of the model

At first glance, the appearance remains the same, but connoisseurs of the family immediately noticed the differences with the classics. Many owners of the machine, in particular, pleased that the bumpers added in relief, and exhaust pipe were distributed in different parties. Also became more and more spectacular lights, adding brutality. In General, the owners of BMW 540i come to the conclusion that the G30 is the natural appearance of a sedan of a business-level how it should be in the 21st century. Experts, in turn, not in a hurry to breed a new generation with the traditions of the 5 Series. It has its own differences and peculiarities, but they are even more in line with the ideology of this line. It is the spirit of prestige, ergonomics and comfort. The only thing that gets negative reviews, it is sometimes elongated (e.g., lights) that visually expand the model. Fashion for enlargement of sedans is gradually taking place and such decisions appear more ridiculous, not to mention the lack of real benefits to them. But there are opposite opinions. For example, it is noted that the short overhangs coupled with the elongated hood and shifted to the back of the salon just contribute to the dynamics that distinguish the German brand from its competitors.

Reviews about interior

A Feeling of solidity and solidity is transferred to the interior, the architecture of which is also complemented by new technological advantages – again, when compared with the generation 10-15 years ago. Primarily experienced drivers appreciate the split display with touch control and the front panel. All have different tasks, so this decision is justified. Plus the owners of the cars will wear the comfort. The seats even in the base trim levels get the option of heating and ventilation. The landing parameters are controlled via an actuator that also adds to the convenience. If we talk about sports the features of the BMW 540i M G30, to a certain extent, these include the shifting of the latching switches, program the massage itself is deep planting and plenty of gadgets with indicators of dynamic indicators.

Feedback on the ride qualities

The behavior on the road is characterized by smoothness, responsiveness of management and at the same time high reliability. With regard to sports component, car owners stress a combination of dynamics and ability to smooth out uneven – this was possible also thanks to the adaptive chassis. In addition, experts note that the G30 BMW 540i M Performance with greater ease cuts the airspace. The aerodynamics of the body has a good flow towhich many add optimum noise isolation.

Conclusion

Not always update the models through optional packages leads to the success, even the big manufacturers. In this case, it is not just about creating a restyled version of the successful hatchback, and a complete revision of the whole series, which is based on premium sedans. Moreover, the update implied changing the power of filling a medium-athletic style of movement. In the end, the evolution of the BMW 540i is justified. Even if you do not talk about the positive experiences of fans of fast driving, the target audience of fans of classic Bavarian sedans certainly not turned away from the Performance package. On the other hand, to put a novelty on a par with full-fledged sports cars based on sedans competitors, is also not necessary. So it turns out a kind of hybrid, where every motorist will find something of their own.