Overview & Reviews

It's no exaggeration to say that the BMW 5 Series sets the standard for premium sport sedans. Introduced for the 1972 model year, the midsize 5 Series has long offered a near-perfect blend of performance, luxury and interior room. It's also highly regarded for its refined styling and innovative technology features.

Most BMW 5 Series models you'll come across will be rear-wheel-drive sedans, though you'll stumble upon the occasional 5 Series wagon on the used car market. In addition, all-wheel drive has been optional for some time, and many used sedans in colder climes will be so equipped. Traditionally, the 5 Series has featured an inline six-cylinder gasoline engine, but BMW has also offered V8 engines, turbocharged four-cylinders and even diesel-powered options. When people ask us to recommend luxury cars, the BMW 5 Series is invariably high on the list, new or used.

User Reviews:

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  Best car Ever had - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By KIKI LAW - March 24 - 9:38 pm

  We test drove so many cars of its class and I thought it will will stop when I drove the E500 MB. Guess what not even close. After I drove the 550i. I just couldnt see myself in any other car but a BMW 550i

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  Cant Beat It! - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By BEST CAR EVER - March 24 - 9:57 am

  Have owned Audi, Jag, and another BMW since about 97, and this in unequivocally the best driving vehicle I have been in. Smooth, solid power, handling is amazing. Snowstorm on 3rd day after buying and tried hard to get it to slip, couldnt do it. Interior is just the right amount of luxury, and the iDrive is easy for anyone who has touched a computer (what was all the fuss?).

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  great choice - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By joshin - March 23 - 11:39 pm

  After reading many reviews and waiting for all wheel drive in the five series we finally bought it last year. 14000 miles later I love it. The performance is perfect in chicago weather.

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  Still the Best Performance Sedan - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By fat penguin - March 22 - 9:14 pm

  I have owned more than 10 BMWs and, with the exception of my 2003 M3 convertible (my baby), this is the best car yet. Its a sports car, luxury sedan, and a practical everyday vehicle all in one.

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  Got To Love a V8 and Manual Transmission - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By Robert L. Huser - March 22 - 12:38 pm

  Only thing that sounds better than the DSP stereo is the sound of the engine working its way up through the slick shifting 6spd. Cant beat the low slung looks and accompanying wide tires. Dont complain about the cup holders there is help waiting for you at the parts counter. There are both door mount and center console mount available. The car offers both outstanding comfort and exciting performance and handling. I LOVE THIS CAR.

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  Disappointed After 15000 mile check up - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By donna - March 22 - 10:49 am

  Minor trouble prior to 15,000 mile update with one tire continuing to leak air and prompt message to screen. After dealership updated, car transmission seems different and shifting mode not in time. Just doesnt feel the same! Cant say enough positive about this car prior to 15,000 miles. Get up and go was amazing! I dont like the drivers drink holder location. In the way of front seat passenger. Notice brake dust often on wheels.

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  Best combination of Luxury/Sport - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By scbsee88 - March 21 - 3:00 pm

  From the solid doors, plush leather and the Automatic Climate controls, the BMW takes car engineering to the next level. If you havent driven a 5-series, I suggest you do and then youll realize why all of the BMW cliches are right-on: Ultimate Driving Machine..."feel one with the road"..., etc. Dont believe the conventional wisdom that Lexus is more luxurious and BMW is more of a drivers car. My 530ia has got enough bells and whistles (sunroof, power seats, Automatic climate controls, stereo) to keep me more than satisfied. As a telecommuter, I have to come up with excuses to drive it out of my garage. Do yourself a favor and get yourself a 2003 while they come back from leases!

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  The BEST wagon EVER - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Norman - March 21 - 11:49 am

  This is the 3rd wagon I have owned and the 2nd BMW wagon, this is by far the BEST wagon EVER, the all wheel drive and the navagation were not available on the 1999 wagon, and it truly makes this the BEST wagon ever, I also love the fact I have Blue tooth and my phones address book in my BMW, it also links to my iPod so I am a happy camper.

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  Truly Fantastic - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Fantastic Five - March 17 - 11:24 pm

  This car does so many things right, its staggering how good it is. It is fast, comfortable, good looking, innovative, and handles better than 99% of all cars. The engine, transmission and suspension are so smooth, you quickly realize that you pay for refinement. Anyone can make a fast car, but no one can make a car that "feels" like this one. The features that this car has are unparalled. It does everything you ask. IDrive is awesome, and the people who bag on it are people who do not understand the logic behind computers. If youre good with a PC, youll love iDrive. Great, great car.

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  The best of both worlds - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By cT - March 15 - 4:16 pm

  Previous owner of 03 525i. The new model gives you the best of both worlds. Luxurious and sporty. Smoothier, quietier, more power, and more elegant.