2021 G30 BMW 5-Series LCI coming to Malaysia: Fightback against the W213 Mercedes E-Class

The German executive sedan battle is showing no signs of abating in Malaysia. Hot on the heels of the incoming 2021 W213 Mercedes E-Class, the good people at Munich are firing back with the 2021 BMW 5-Series LCI (Life Cycle Impulse). What updates can we anticipate in this updated model? Let's jump right in.

Will the prices stay the same?

In CKD format, the current model retailed at these prices:

• RM 388k for the 530i M Sport
• RM 339k for the 530e M Sport
• RM 329k for the 520i Luxury

We don't expect the prices to deviate too far from the current ones. Let's hope the 2021 G30 BMW 5-Series can be launched in Malaysia soon enough to take advantage of the now-extended SST exemption pricing.

What's new outside?

The most obvious change in the 2021 BMW 5-Series is definitely the headlamp design. Gone are the semi-circular LED daytime running lights, replaced with a simpler L-shaped motif. The front bumper has also been refreshed, for a more streamlined look.

At the back, there are new tail lamp units as well, with a different LED pattern. The rear bumper has also been nipped and tucked for a cleaner overall look. Less aggresive but more classy. Rounding it off is a set of trapezoidal exhaust outlets. 

Updated interior

The interior architecture remains largely the same, with a few major updates. For one, the instrument cluster is now a 12.3" fully digital set up (dubbed the Live Cockpit Professional), replacing the semi digital one on the current model. 

BMW's iDrive has always been one of the more poished and intuitive infortainment systems out there. Here, the BMW iDrive 7 makes a return, together with more inclusive smartphone integration options for both Apple and Android devices. Here's hoping Malaysian-spec models get the bump to a larger 12.3" central screen, up from the current 10.25".

Any new powertrains?

Not quite. The B48 engine family is still too new to be put out of duty. Instead, expect to receive performance enhancements in the various models. For instance, the updated 2021 530e PHEV powertain now produces 288 PS (up 36 PS) and 420 Nm, capable of a top speed of 235 km/h.

On the non-PHEV front, the 2021 530i should receive the same state of tune as the G20 330i, meaning 252 PS and an increase to 400 Nm of torque (up 50 Nm). As for the 520i, it will be business as usual (184 PS, 290 Nm). All powertrain options will once again be paired to the excellent ZF 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. 

Anything else I should know?

As befitting of a car of this segment, the 2021 BMW 5-Series will continue to retain existing driver assistance systems, called the Driving Assistant package, which includes;

• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Change Warning
• Front Collision Warning (FCW) with autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and rear collision prevention

CKD local assembly, where?

The 2021 G30 BMW 5-Series will be continue to be produced in Completely Knocked Down (CKD) form in BMW's Kulim facility. Can the refreshed Bavarian contender retain its crown as one of the most accomplished premium executive sedans in our market? Watch this space.