Which BMW 5 Series trim depreciates the fastest?
The current generation of the 5-series sedan, called the G30, arrived in South Africa in March 2017. It is the 7th generation of BMW’s mid-size luxury/executive sedan, and it traces its roots to 1972, when the Bavarian manufacturer’s "New Class" Sedan was released.
The 5 is a superb sports saloon, and easily holds its own against its class competitors: the Mercedes-Benz E Class, the Audi A6, Volvo S90, and Lexus ES and GS. But what trim options should you avoid, to mitigate the depreciation of your 5’s value?
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Fewer engine options, but diesel still wins
In South Africa, the 5 series is available with a choice of four engine options: 520d, 530d and 540i. The 520i and 530i are no longer available new, and the M5 is very different to animal, to be discussed separately.
The dealer principal of BMW Bedfordview, Mr Guy Kilfoil, says 5-series cars with diesel engines are more desirable than their petrol-powered counterparts, “even though the difference in consumption between these types of fuel is quite small in modern cars”. So, it’s possible that a 530d will depreciate less than a 540i. This means the buyer shouldn’t just consider the trim before he or she chooses a 5 series, but the type of engine too. More popular cars simply have better resale values.
Order dark upholstery and a sunroof
Paint colour is another consideration, and choosing a sober hue will also help to maintain your car’s value. This means choosing Alpine White or Frozen Arctic Grey over Almandine Brown or Frozen Dark Brown, for example. “A sunroof also adds to the desirability of a 5 series, but avoid beige seats,” Mr Kilfoil advises. He says the interior, dashboard and door-panel trims won’t affect the resale value. So, whether you like wood veneer or piano black, follow your dream.
Related : BMW 5 Series: Which is better, petrol or diesel?
The trims were trimmed
Apart from reducing the 5 Series' engine choices, BMW South Africa also trimmed the number of available trim levels. The website still offers Standard, Luxury Line, Sport Line and M-Sport in the car configurator, but if you find a Standard- or Luxury-spec car online or at a dealer, it will be one of the last. This could help prospective buyers of the 5 series limit depreciation, because both Sport Line and M Sport are desirable, with the latter a few steps ahead.