11-09-2022, 12:39 PM | #1 |
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Hi Everyone,
I know there's been a thread or two on this one but after my test drive today I had to say how surprised I was on the 540. Now they didn't have a m550 to drive, but I actually left thinking would that car be too fast… the 540 still can throw you back and is faster to 60 than me 2012 S4 was. Did anyone else feel this way? Maybe it's worth saving the 260/mon difference in lease payment… For context, I made the mistake of leasing an x3 30, paying a bmw premium for a car I wasn't happy with. I do not want to do that again, so I am soo hesitant to get the 540 but I'm saying to myself, this time is different. Decisions! |
11-09-2022, 01:44 PM | #2 |
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2012 BMW 335is [5.00] 2008 Infiniti QX56 [0.00] 1967 Chevrolet Corv ... [10.00] 2001 M Roadster [10.00] 2022 BMW 540i [0.75] 2009 528i [9.50] |
I think you need to drive the m550 before making that decision. Also, when comparing costs, the base m550 comes with standard features that are options on lesser G30's. For example, the m-sport is an option on the 540, while I believe it is standard on the m550. I recommend you play around with the configurator at bmwusa.com to make that assessment.
I took delivery of a 540i in June and am very happy with it. With 335hp it is plenty quick. Also seeing 32mpg+ on longer trips. No regrets here for not jumping up to the m550. |
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11-09-2022, 02:14 PM | #3 | |
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I've done my hw tho. I've made configurations already and have the lease incentives by 550 and 540, plus my broker discounts on the two cars (8.25% 540 and 4.25% 550). My 540 build is around 74.5 and the 550 is 84.5. This is about 840 lease and 1100 using the above discounts and my bmw lease incentives (loyalty and the 540 has additional lease cash). These programs can easily change when I take delivery. I'd suspect the lease delta is prob at the widest it will ever be. (Good program for the 540 and not the 550 plus the difference in broker discount. ) |
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11-09-2022, 02:21 PM | #4 | |
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11-09-2022, 03:46 PM | #5 |
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I remember being very impressed when I tested the M550i and 540i back to back (I drove the M550i first). I bought the M550i though because I wanted to go big (V8) before I go electric.
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11-09-2022, 03:59 PM | #6 | ||
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Would an average spirited driver notice the difference in the 540 nimbleness? |
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11-09-2022, 04:05 PM | #7 | |
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That's why I'm leaning 550. I think I have a much bigger chance of regretting my 840 payment bc I should have gotten the 550 then the regretting that my payment is unnecessarily higher than it could have been…. I just won't be able to drive a 550. So I still fear the buyers remorse. But as long as people say it's better than a 540, I can't really go wrong. But thinking it might not be as nimble starts to worry me as then the driving dynamics are changing and maybe it won't be better… |
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11-09-2022, 05:29 PM | #8 |
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I have had both '17 540i and a '20 M550i (still own). Both are great cars and faster/quicker than most cars out there. No bad decision between the two. Make sure you get xdrive on whichever model you get. My 540i was rear wheel drive and that was often one wheel drive with the open diff. The extra grip (especially off the line) with Xdrive is a beautiful thing
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11-09-2022, 06:33 PM | #9 | |
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11-09-2022, 08:41 PM | #11 |
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Hi there. I recommend driving both and then make your decision. You don't want it to be later down the line when you see the M550 and you go " Damn I should have gotten that". You are already experiencing similar feeling with the X3. Don't repeat that. just my 2 cents.
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11-09-2022, 09:28 PM | #12 | |
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Probably not the popular opinion but going to keep DHP off. At some point, I've gotta draw the line on cost. I'm at 86k with destination: skyscraper grey with shadowline Ivory Nappa leather massage, ventilating seats, heated steering wheel and rear seats, rear sun shades, parking assistance |
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11-09-2022, 10:54 PM | #13 |
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To add another thing here. I did the 550 because of the option packages not available on the 540. Surround view cameras and parking assistant are not available on the 540 now. Being that this is the last year for the g30, I would bet good money last year for a true v8 before it goes all hybrid electric etc...
Call me crazy but I ordered the 550 not having driven anything. I didn't want the display coming on the g60 either. It looks like someone left a big fish tank on the dash... 😂 So if your in doubt this could be the last chance to get what you really want. My 2 cents anyways.. |
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11-10-2022, 12:00 AM | #14 |
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I have a 540 and love it but it sounds like you need to go 550.
I don't have any regrets. The 540 is perfect for me right now. It's my first BMW of my own (have family experience with BMW) and I think it's been a great introduction to the brand ownership. It's super smooth, quick, faster than anything I've ever driven. Good mileage, should be pretty reliable. And it was not stressful on my wallet. All that said, I'll probably get a V8 in my next BMW. I'm just too intrigued not to. I'm not so worried about "last chances" to do it, because I have no issue buying a lightly used CPO. Also, BMW is putting new V8's in other models. It might be a mild hybrid, but I would be surprised if there is no V8 across the G60 lineup, once fully introduced. Last thing - The 540 can still put a smile on my face. Especially in sport mode on a more open road or open two lane with some turns. But there is some truth to getting used to it, as mentioned above. I think the instant torque of the 550 would make that satisfaction more accessible in quick bursts.
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11-10-2022, 12:39 AM | #15 |
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I'm in this "dilemma" now. Have a 2017 540 which I am perfectly happy with but looking to test drive a m550 as this will be the last chance to buy a v8 5 series in the U.K.
A little delay in getting a test drive as they are rare in the U.K. , I looked at a website which states there are just 62 g30 550s in the U.K.! Also not interested in the g60, not liking where bmw are going at the moment .(curved dash, no buttons, no gear knob and non round steering wheel to name a few things) So the test drive will be to establish 2 main things, the engine (obvious) as to how quiet and refund it is and the suspension , as to how m adaptive compares to my current VDC. If the ride is too firm that may turn me off although reviews seem to suggest in comfort mode it is good. |
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11-10-2022, 03:02 AM | #16 | |
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11-10-2022, 04:19 AM | #17 | ||
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The 10 years ago me would never pick luxury seats over performance!! The only reason I'm putting a premium on these things is my back. I've got a bad back and wanted everything I can think of to help it. But, thinking about it more. Cooled seats do nothing for that. I've heard the massage seats are not great either. Maybe I'll stick to just nappa to get the quilted seats? Then swap the massage and ventilating for the dhp? |
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11-10-2022, 04:26 AM | #18 | |
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I agree with you on the 540. If it was the only option I would still be extremely happy. It's an awesome car! |
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11-10-2022, 04:46 AM | #19 |
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Does DHP and specifically the adaptive suspension, provide better range from softness to firmness? Having greater range and I'd be sold on it, more flexibility..
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11-10-2022, 04:51 AM | #20 | |
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11-10-2022, 05:51 AM | #21 |
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Sounds like a good plan to me. I haven't driven an M550i w/o DHP for extended periods of time, but man my car is butter smooth yet handles solidly, with harshness pretty much non-existent on decent roads.
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11-10-2022, 06:10 AM | #22 | |
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If i put it all on there. Do the massage or ventilating mechanics make the seat less soft? Absolutely do not want a firm seat. Coming from x3 sport vernasca seat. Really don't like it. |
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