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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  Car - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By peacemaker353 - July 14 - 10:00 am

  THE CAR IS GREAT! IT IS ONE OF THE BEST CARS THAT I HAVE DRIVEN IN MY LIFE!

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  A car youll always remember - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Bob - July 13 - 4:48 am

  A total kick every time I get behind the wheel. The quality of the car and driving experience make this car worth every penny. Everyone should own one at least once. I felt the 330i was a little small, while the 530i was a perfect fit for my life style. Treat yourself........

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  The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By New Lease on Life - July 13 - 2:00 am

  Loved my 2000 Mercedes C230 Kompressor (recently turned in at lease end). However, this BMW puts it to shame. Comments ranged from "yeah, theyre nice but so overpriced (actually well priced!)" to "youre stepping down to a BMW?". After the first month, Im still high (no, its not just the new car scent!). Solid and yet extremely comfortable ride, reeeeeeealy quiet, excellent braking, awesome sound system (steering wheel controls big +), leather seats like living room furniture, controls logical & easy to use, xlnt a/c system, rain sensing windshield wipers much more of a plus than anticipated. By far the best of all 10 of my previous vehicles!

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  Passing on the curves - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By geoffrey macpherson - July 12 - 7:32 pm

  Once upon a time in a galaxy far far away, I owned an M6. I looked upon the 5 series with distain, a four door sedan for the family man. Not for a real life he-man who needed a vessel for all his testosterone. All that went out the window like so much cat hair on a windy day when I drove a 545 and fell in love. This car not only has more power than my 87 M6 but its handling is actually better. so much for my distain of sedans. If there is any shortfall its inside. I do miss the hand-stitched leather dash and the little non-functional soda cooler in the back. But thats more than made up for the ability to transport passengers who actually have legs. Bravo BMW, the 545 is a winner.

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  545 series rocks - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Bruce in Florida - July 10 - 2:02 pm

  Having grown up in the fifties and sixties with muscle cars I really wanted another one but not some me too machine that had no class or handling. After driving everything out there from the Corvette to the Chrusler 300 I found the 545i with the sport package to be the best handling car I have ever driven. The progressive steering is awesome and stopping is as positive as is the neck snapping acceleration from the luxury type car. Once you get used to the screwy iDrive its not as bad as it was in the earlier models and you get quite good at it. The Nav system isnt as intuitive or easy to use as the Lexus SC430 my wife has (which also boogies) but its Okay. BMW has me two more years.

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  Comfort, Handling & Beauty - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Vocals - July 8 - 4:20 pm

  The precision steering and comfort of the new 525 makes BMWs 2006 a winner. Not a negative word can be stated about this car. From the computer to exterior beauty, all is handled with ease and so much fun to drive! Like other BMW products, the owner will never be disappointed.

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  540iA Sport - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By Spiel - July 8 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased a 540iA Sport 1 month ago before the 2004 model ruins the 5 Series in a few months. Its a perfect driving machine. Steptronic Transmission is smooth. Handling is BMW. 18" wheels not too rough and cornering feels great, especially with the sport seats. Titanium silver metallic paint with black interior the best combination. Instrument panel just as good as an Audi. Sports package and premium sound option musts (a hint of M helps). No problems or glitches so far.

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  BMW 540i sport, premium 6 - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By Robert L. Huser - July 6 - 4:12 pm

  This car is the ultimate driving machine. From the engine, transmission, overall gearing, handling, comfort, and sound system (DSP audio & engine) this machine rocks. Its also the best looking car on the road with very reasonable economy for the performance experienced. Averaged 26.4 mpg on latest 1500 mile vacation. This car satisfies all my wants, needs, and wishes. Forget complaining about useless cupholders, pickup a set of door pocket mounted holders at BMW accessory counter. Only unlucky reliability issues could bring complaints about this otherwise perfect overall automobile. You just cant beat a V8 manual transmission combo for all out driving excitement. Just awesome!!

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  BMW 540i The Ultimate Dream Machine - 1998 BMW 5-Series
  By Jud - July 6 - 12:24 am

  Sold my low mile 95 M3 and kept old Porsche SC Cabiolet. Bought used 540i thinking comfort but did not expect comfort and FUN. Corrected usual bugs in cooling system for peace of mind. Great acceleration, not as quick as M3 but easier on these old bones. As fast as P-car but not through corners. Dont understand knock on stereo as premium unit is terrific once you read directions. Added homelink via ebay (very simple install). Will buy another when - and if - I wear this one out. Rock solid at > 100 mph (so wife tells me).

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  It works for me - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By Don G. - July 5 - 9:30 pm

  Lower front bumper takes all the punishment due to sport suspension. One cannot be careful enough when parking in a space where the car is driven into a stall. Due to the sport suspension, any curbing higher then four (4) inches will catch on the bumper and potentially cause damage. My damage to date has resulted in an $85.00 repair bill. Other then that, the car meets all my expectations and is a pleasure to drive.