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Autoguide Inspects the BMW ActiveHybrid5

The 2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 is a controversial car. Most people say that it's just not worth to spend an extra $8,500 (€6,500) on a car that will only return 2 extra miles from the conventional 535i. Autoguide took a closer look at it and came up with some interesting notes.
BMW ActiveHybrid 5 5 photos
Photo: Autoblog.com
BMW ActiveHybrid 5BMW ActiveHybrid 5BMW ActiveHybrid 5BMW ActiveHybrid 5
The AH5 is based on the 535i only that along with the 3-liter turbocharged engine you'll also get an electric motor and, combined, the two will add up to 335 HP and 330 lb-ft (447 Nm) of torque.

The first thing you'll notice is that the brakes are weird, to say the least. Somehow the brake response in this car is strange and, even though the steering and handling feel just like any other BMW, the brakes are inconsistent. This may very well be due to the added weight of the batteries and the electric motor fitted on the AC5.

Using the driving modes will change the car completely. Use the Sport+ mode and it will turn into a rubber burning beast, just like a 5 Series should be. Going into Eco Mode will change your car into a slow, dragging vehicle, struggling to save as much fuel as possible. Using the 2 other modes will give you balance. The Comfort and Sport modes are perfect for cruises and long trips.

The most surprising improvement was the iDrive system. Even though many people used to complain about BMW's on-board system, the one on the AH5 is actually easy to use and you can even read the user's manual on it, in order to get a better understanding of your new car.

Via: Autoguide.com
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