BMW 5 Series 550e.
What to Check Before Buying.

The BMW 5 Series 550e suits company car drivers and high-mileage motorists seeking luxury with lower benefit-in-kind tax rates, offering an official electric range of around 30 miles from its plug-in hybrid system. This variant combines a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for impressive performance and fuel economy when charged regularly, though real-world electric range often falls short of the official figure if the previous owner neglected charging habits. The 550e's complexity means higher maintenance costs than standard diesel models, particularly for battery and hybrid system components. When buying used, always verify the charging cable is present and check the battery's state of health through BMW diagnostics, as replacement costs can exceed £5,000. Inspect service history carefully to confirm hybrid system maintenance has been completed at correct intervals. Test the electric-only mode thoroughly during your viewing to ensure smooth transitions between power sources and confirm the battery holds charge properly. Check for software updates, as early models benefited from improvements addressing drivetrain refinement.

The average used car has 3+ known model faults the seller won't mention.