Best Car Reviews - 1999 BMW 528i Touring

Introduction

The 1999 BMW 528i Touring is a sophisticated blend of performance and practicality released towards the end of the 1990s. Targeted primarily at families and individuals valuing both luxury and space, this model encapsulates the charm of a premium station wagon with the sporty spirit BMW is known for. As a part of BMW's esteemed 5 Series, the 528i Touring stands out due to its harmonious design, precise engineering, and an emphasis on comfort, making it a favorite among touring car enthusiasts.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1999 BMW 528i Touring boasts a timeless, aerodynamic silhouette that gracefully combines functionality with elegance. It's built on the E39 platform, often lauded for its balanced proportions and subtle contours, which give it a sporty yet understated appearance.

Sleek lines and elongated body offer superior interior space.
Distinctive kidney grille adds to its iconic brand identity.
Alloy wheels contribute to a robust and agile look.
Roof rails for additional cargo solutions.
Halogen headlights provide enhanced visibility and style.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the BMW 528i Touring, passengers are greeted by a well-crafted interior featuring high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The cabin layout is intentionally driver-focused, ensuring every control is at the driver’s fingertips while also facilitating a premium passenger experience.

Leather upholstery and wooden trim speak of luxury.
Spacious seating with generous legroom for all passengers.
Automatic climate control enhances cabin comfort.
Adjustable steering column for personalized driving posture.
Ample cargo space with a flat load floor for practicality.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the BMW 528i Touring is powered by a 2.8-liter inline-6 engine, delivering a balanced output of 193 horsepower. Coupled with an automatic 4-speed transmission and a Rear-Wheel Drive configuration, the car offers a dynamic driving experience.

0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8.0 seconds showcases its impressive acceleration.
Smooth and responsive handling ideal for city driving and long highway cruises.
Precise steering for confident maneuvering and tight cornering.
Fuel efficiency averages around 15.7 l/100 km, which is reasonable for its class.
Stable ride quality ensures comfort even on rough terrains.

Technology and Connectivity

The 1999 BMW 528i Touring is equipped with an array of technological features designed to enhance driving enjoyment and connectivity. Even though it doesn't offer contemporary tech, for its time, it was quite advanced.

Basic infotainment system with easy-to-use controls.
AM/FM radio and cassette player for audio entertainment.
Power windows and seats for added convenience.
Limited driver assistance technologies available.

Safety Features

BMW has not compromised on safety in the 528i Touring, incorporating various features to ensure a secure ride for all occupants.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Driver and passenger airbags
Side-impact protection
Stability and traction control
Though lacking modern-day crash ratings, it ensures above-average safety standards.

Pricing and Variants

With a base price of approximately $44,000 USD when new, the 1999 BMW 528i Touring was positioned competitively within the small station wagon segment.

It was offered in a single trim variety, packed with standard luxury features.
Pricing was comparable to the likes of Volvo V70 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Spacious and versatile interior
Strong and reliable engine performance
Exceptional ride comfort
High-quality build and materials
Stylish and elegant design

Cons

Relatively high fuel consumption
Limited technological features in today's terms
Maintenance can be costly
Automatic transmission with only 4 speeds
No modern driver assistance systems

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for a vehicle of this class generally hover around $1,200-$1,500 USD, depending on the service center and regional pricing.

Common problems include cooling system failures, particularly in the water pump and thermostat.
Suspension components can wear out, leading to potential issues.
Electrical glitches with power windows or seat functions.
Oil leaks from the engine.
Transmission issues due to wear over time.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8/10
Design: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"I love the driving dynamics of my 528i Touring, truly a joy on every trip."
"Comfortable for long rides, but I wish it had more modern tech features."
"The maintenance can get pricey, but it's worth the ride quality."
"Spacious, luxurious, and timeless in design."
"Fuel efficiency is not great, but the power makes up for it."

Best cars in this category

1999 Volvo V70
1999 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon
1999 Audi A4 Avant
1999 Subaru Legacy Wagon
1999 Saab 9-5 Wagon

Summary

The 1999 BMW 528i Touring is best suited for families and individuals seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality. Its well-rounded attributes make it a worthy contender in the small station wagon market. While it may not boast the latest technology, its classic design and commendable comfort features ensure it remains a desirable choice for those who appreciate a well-crafted vehicle.