Bmw 540I
682 registered in New Zealand · 1993–2019 · 94% from Germany
The Bmw 540I is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 682 registered across model years 1993 to 2019. It averages 11.4 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 203 kW. Most are petrol-powered saloons with a 4.4L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the 540I.
Fuel Types
Bmw 540I fuel type breakdown: PETROL 100%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Bmw 540I vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Bmw 540I fleet age profile: 2003: 23, 2006: 50, 2007: 35, 2008: 21, 2017: 34.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Bmw 540I transmissions: 5-GEAR AUTO 17%, 4-GEAR AUTO 2%, 6-GEAR MANUAL 1%.
Engine Size
Bmw 540I engine sizes: 4.4L 33%, 4.4L 22%, 4.0L 15%, 4.0L 13%, 3.0L 5%.
Imported From
Bmw 540I imported from: Germany 94%, Japan 4%, United Kingdom 2%, South Africa 0%, Other 0%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Bmw 540I vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Bmw 540I NZ arrival timeline: 2022: 8, 2023: 11, 2024: 9, 2025: 17, 2026: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Bmw 540I.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Bmw 540I regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 201, CHRISTCHURCH: 58, HAMILTON: 27, WELLINGTON: 25, DUNEDIN: 23.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bmw 540I are there in New Zealand?
There are 682 Bmw 540I vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1993 to 2019.
How much does it cost to run a Bmw 540I?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Bmw 540I averages 11.4 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $90 per week or $4,665 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Bmw 540I?
The Bmw 540I is primarily classified as a saloon in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: station wagon. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Bmw 540I cars imported or NZ-new?
94% of Bmw 540I vehicles in New Zealand originated from Germany. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.