
This is BMW’s bestselling car in India, and without doubt, because this segment in general has always outsold its smaller brethren. Initially, the 5 series portfolio consisted of three petrols and a single diesel, but BMW was quick to realize that the diesel was outselling all three petrols put together. So earlier this year, BMW dumped the base 523i and brought in the 520d. The 525i and the 539i were retained, while the 520d was upgraded to the 530d, which today is also available as the 530d Highline. Both petrol inline sixes are known for their explosive power, while the base diesel is no slouch either. The 530d on the other hand is the biggest revelation with probably one of the punchiest diesels in the country. The Highline also has some interesting features like Night Vision, all of which added to less than a lack of rupees over the 525d. Ride quality is better here than the 3 series, while overall build quality is near faultless. Ideal if you enjoy driving yourself on weekends.
AUTODATA:
Engine: 1995cc, l4 TD/2993cc, l6, TD/2497, l6/2996cc l6
Transmission: 6-speed auto.
Power (bhp@rpm): 174@ 4000/232@ 4000/218@ 6100/255@ 6500
Torque (kgm@rpm): 35.6@ 1750-3000/50.8@ 1750-3000/27@ 2400-4200/30.5@ 2750-3000
Dimensions:
LxWxH (mm): 4841x1902x11483
Wheelbase: 3128mm
What it’s got: Brilliant handler, great diesel options.
What it ain’t: Not as comfortable as the competition.
Anything else? The ubiquitous Mercedes E-Class, the Audi A6 and the rare Volvo S80.










Never fiddle around with a proven formula. Okay, you’re allowed some leeway, but don’t overdo it. That seems to be the philosophy behind the new Corolla Altis. It is an improvement over its predecessor in terms of appearance, interiors, drivetrain and features, but is not that drastically different overall. At least not that radical to give the Honda Civic some sleepless nights. The Corolla Altis is everything that you’d want from a C-A-R and then some more. The 1.8 liter petrol motor is a proven one, quite fuel efficient for its category and also gets additional bhp in the Altis application. Toyota has ticked many features as standard in the sales catalogue, and that’s reason enough for many executives to go for it. Ride quality and rear seat comfort is more forgiving that the Civic, but a driver’s car is certainly not. The Corolla Altis is essentially an efficient and refined tool.
