2006 BMW 5-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.64/5 Average
155 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 525 and 530 models receive an all-new 3.0-liter inline-six engine this year, and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is now available to serve those who need a little more bad-weather bite. BMW is also offering a versatile 5 Series wagon to U.S. customers once more, though only in 530xi trim. The 545i has been replaced by the 550i, which features a 360-horsepower, 4.8-liter V8.

Pros:
  • One of the most satisfying midsize sport sedans/wagons you can buy, ultrarefined engines, multiple transmissions, tastefully appointed cabin, exceptional build quality, strong resale value.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 155.00
  • The BEST wagon EVER - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    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.

  • Truly Fantastic - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    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.

  • 550i - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    First BMW. Ex Porsche guy. Surprised at performance and balance - simply excellent. IDrive is nonsense. In and of itself its not so hard to use, just plain silly. Cant even check oil accurately. Have yet to figure out how to store a radio station. Sat radio, though, is outstanding. Nav system w/ voice activation is almost useless as apparently German written instructions dont decipher into understandable English. The extra $240 for the 2nd year road assist is a waste. Got most options except heads up display & wish I had checked the headlight auto bright control option. Would have been nice to have. No real problems.

  • A dream car - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Had a 1997 535i I loved and couldnt part with. Finally and reluctantly I bought my 550i - shouldnt have waited - its a simply fantastic car. I look forward to the morning drive more than ever and my SL500 stays parked in the garage. Great performance, handling and comfort as well as all the hitec gismos to keep me happy - and they are useful too particulary headup and satnav. Great. IDrive is simply learnt in a few hours that motoring journos obviously dont give it. Simple - intuitive - and very easy to use regularly when needed.

  • better than an e series benz - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    So far, so very good. Fun to drive, great on turns. Good pickup for a 6 cylinder car. A very smooth ride. If you have only one car, and want a fun ride, this is your car. No, dont like the design of the rear end, so I approach the car from the front. The onboard mapping system is handy. The iDrive system is fine, but probably not worth the effort or inherent expense. It does eat up gas quickly.

  • Happy, but......... - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This is my 6th 5 series and it does have a character all its own. Runs flawlessly and has all the handling capabilities one would expect. Still, the iDrive (which Im still getting used to) is an unnecessary pain especially to adjust vent settings. Voice commands are understood about 70% of the time and Run Flat Tires are just not worth it (cannot be repaired,are $400 ea and have to be ordered if you need one - not in stock at most shops). Installed AUX cable for my IPOD, but that should be automatic and it should work with steering wheel controls and should show all IPOD information on the cars display. Wheels are boring (no style) and have been replaced as well.

  • the dream machine ? - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    After years of owning Mercedes I decided to go for the bmw based on the good reviews and a very favorable test drive. I bought mine with the sport package. What was I thinking buying mercedes? This is so far the best driving experience I ever had. I regret not buying one before. Build quality and performance are outstanding, as well as confort. Once you get the hang og it, the I drive is actually helpfull. My first taste of BMW has left me already wondering about the M models. If you are thinking about a car in this price range.... think no more, this is it.

  • Best 4 Door Performance Car on the Marke - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car is truly a blast to drive. Fast, nimble, all the cool toys inside- -THe Ultimate Driving Machinge without question. The engine sounds great, feels smooth and never seems to hit the end of the power band. Interestingly, I get 26-27 mpg on the highway and combined of about 20--not much less than my 325. All in all, this is the best 4 door performance car on the market. After driving it, all the complaints about the I-Drive, styling or other small stuff sounds more like sour grapes from those that do not get to drive one to work each day.

  • Dream Car - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This replaced an 04 E500 AWD Mercedes. This car has far better ride, is more responsive and much more fun to drive. Fit and finish are impeccable. Got the comfort seats which are worth every penny. I Drive is actually fun and easy once you get the hang of it. Big tip: Take delivery at the BMW Performance Center. Dealers rarely share this information with buyers. Its the only way to go, and free. A great experience, and you will learn more about your car and have more fun with it. Once youve done this its unlikely youll ever buy any car other than a BMW.

  • The very nice "T" as Touring - 2006 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Had worked in the Old world for many years so 5 doors with AWD are my only interest once return to the New world. There were few models met the criteria in the local market. We finally chose the 530xiT because it is a good example of demonstrating what a car should be like when a car has the right combination of performance, handling, quality, safety and utility. Although the 530xiT does not perform #1 in each category, it is so well balanced!! This is very important for people who are shopping in this market segment. Time to call it correctly: Touring, not Wagon.

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