2021 BMW 530i M Sport First Drive Review: Subtle changes keep this driver’s car fresh

Exteriors

We don’t generally focus on styling when talking about BMWs because they are all about the driving experience. However, with this 5 Series facelift, the mechanical changes are non existent while the most significant changes are to the exterior. Up front, the face has been re-profiled to look a little sleeker. The grille is new — it is now wider and taller (but not disproportionate in any manner), while the slats now jut out strongly at the top. Meanwhile, the slimmer headlamps contrast this bigger grille rather well and give the new 5 a rather serious appearance. Adaptive LEDs with matrix technology to individually control the LEDs are standard, while the M Sport variant that we are driving gets the higher spec Laser lights, instantly recognisable from the tinge of blue in the headlamp cluster. This M Sport variant also gets sportier, more aggressive bumpers compared to the outgoing M Sport 5 Series.

In profile, it would be harder to spot the differences, especially on this M Sport variant because the 18-inch wheels remain the same (19s are an option). The Luxury Line cars do get a new wheel design, though I haven’t seen them yet and wouldn’t be able to describe them to you. It is worth noting that the new 5 Series is 27mm longer than the pre-facelift car. Mind you, the wheelbase is identical and this extra length has come from longer overhangs so space inside the cabin hasn’t changed. From the rear, the 5 Series has been sharpened up as well. The tail lamps are new and now have a 3D effect to them, while the diffuser at the back has more pronounced contours.

Overall, the 5 Series looks a little more grown up. To my eye, it looks way better than before — the face looks a lot more purposeful and that sits well with the sporty character of the 5 Series.