What are the differences between the 2018 and 2019 BMW 5 Series?
4 Answers
BMW 5 Series 2018 and 2019 differences are: 1. Different vehicle weight: The 2018 BMW 5 Series has a curb weight of 1660 kg; the 2019 model has a curb weight of 1710 kg; 2. Different environmental standards: The 2018 BMW 5 Series meets China V emission standards; the 2019 model meets China VI emission standards. The BMW 5 Series is a mid-to-large-sized sedan with a 4-door, 5-seat configuration. Its body dimensions are: length 5087 mm, width 1868 mm, height 1500 mm, wheelbase 3108 mm, and fuel tank capacity 68 liters. The BMW 5 Series is equipped with an inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, with a maximum power output of 135 kW and a maximum power speed range of 5000 to 6500 rpm.
I just compared the 2018 and 2019 BMW 5 Series models last year, and the technical differences are quite interesting. The biggest upgrade in the 2019 model is the iDrive system jumping from version 6.0 to 7.0, featuring a larger and smoother central display with enhanced gesture controls and voice commands, making navigation operations while driving much more convenient. The engine also received minor tweaks—the same 530i model's 2.0T engine gained about 10 horsepower, with fuel consumption slightly reduced by 1-2%, delivering smoother and more linear acceleration in city driving. Externally, the changes are subtle, but the LED light clusters have a slightly rounder design, and the daytime running lights are more prominent. Safety-wise, several new features were added, such as standard blind-spot assistance and more responsive emergency braking, offering noticeable improvements for daily driving, though the chassis and suspension remained largely unchanged. Overall, the 2019 model is more advanced in technology and efficiency, slightly pricier but worth it.
As someone who has been driving for ten years, my focus is on practicality. The overall space and comfort of the 2018 and 2019 BMW 5 Series are similar, but the 2019 model has thicker seat padding, reducing back pain during long drives. The interior materials feel upgraded, with finer textures on the steering wheel and panels. When the 2019 model was first released, it was tens of thousands more expensive, but it holds its value better in the used car market due to minor improvements, such as reduced system crash probability. The actual fuel consumption difference is minimal, averaging around 11 liters in the city, and maintenance costs are similar. The suspension tuning is more stable, filtering out bumps better, but the power output remains unchanged. I think the 2019 model is more suitable for frequent commuters—practical without being flashy.
With twenty years of driving experience, I prioritize safety features. The 2019 BMW 5 Series outperforms the 2018 model in safety: it comes standard with additional active brake assist and blind spot monitoring, offering faster response times, especially for safer nighttime driving. In terms of comfort, the seat heating is more even, and there's a minor upgrade in soundproofing materials, slightly reducing wind noise. The engine and braking system remain largely unchanged, maintaining the same reliability. The 2019 model features slightly refined exterior lighting, but the overall differences are minimal. If purchasing, the 2019 used model commands a higher price but has similar maintenance costs.
