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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  Amazing! - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By jimmye - February 5 - 10:33 pm

  I researched many cars before I made a decision to sell my 05 Mercedes SLK350 for my new jet black 2008 535xi with night vision. I knew I made the right choice, but I didnt realize how right it was until I drove away from the dealer. Simply amazing. Thats the only way to describe it. Simply the best car I have ever been in or had the pleasure to drive. A perfect combination of tight steering and sitting in the lap of luxury. Run, do not walk and purchase this car if you can. Wish this car was more accessible and cheaper for everyone. The world would be a better place.

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  My Second 5 series - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Mike H. - February 3 - 11:53 pm

  Just traded my 2004 525i for a 2005 530i..no need to say I like the 5s since I moved into the 530 after only a year. More power and much better tires than on the 04 model. If you are shopping for a car in this class, check this car out, it is quite elegant & comfortable! Issues with the 04 525, cupholders, transmission skipping a bit, had 2 recalls within 1 year... the 2005 I have now has a very badly misaligned hood that will require adjusting. Contacted BMW to voice concern over the poor fit and finish that is so unlike BMW, otherwise, happy as can be with the car

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  Best car I have ever owned. - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Dennis - February 3 - 3:58 pm

  I traded in an 04 Merz C-320 for this car. Best trade I ever made. This is an all around outstanding car. The car handles well is comfortable and quiet. I have the luxury package and the sport package. Both options are worth the money.

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  Best Car Ive ever Owned - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Tom - February 1 - 3:57 pm

  I thought the 5-series was out of my price range, but because I own an business and leased for 3 years I was able to easily afford one. I like the comfort and look inside, the width of the seats, and the excellent ride. Only problem so far has been a flat which made me want the run-flat tire. Fuel mileage has been better than expected and snow performance has been fine. Good sound system and I find the iDrive easy to use. Whenever I am in other cars I notice the multitude of ugly buttons and appreciate the clean design. Display is easily readable in any light.

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  Buy right & Be Happy - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By azishot - January 29 - 2:12 pm

  Did lots of searching and found our 530i w/sport pkg at a Jeep Dealer. Only 12k miles. Been driving crummy ordinary cars since my last late 60s era muscle car I sold in 1973. Im suprised at how much I enjoy this car. Ple\nty of power to get into as much trouble as you want plus decent gas milage. Safe, solid and hard to get my wife out of it. Easy to go over 100 mph without noticing, so use the programmable "chime" which warns you when you hit pre-determined speed (mine chimes at 83). Make sure you get the Sport Pkg and steptronic. For about the cost of a new Toyota Camry (loaded) you can get an 2002 530i thats worth talking about. Read the reviews!

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  If it worked it would be great. - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By bwertma. - January 28 - 3:44 pm

  This could be a great car, but repeated problems with the computer system make it unacceptable. Episodes of the headlights not coming on but instead all exterior lights start flashing rapidly on and off warnings that the passenger airbag is off when an adult passenger is in the seat warnings of brake and steering problems etc. We have had many computer modules replaced and software upgrades to no avail. Because of these types of recurring, potentially dangerous problems we dont even feel comfortable enough to drive our 530i out of town. It is really fun to drive. If I had gotten one that worked reliably, I would love it.

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  A Great Surprise - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By HiHoMike - January 27 - 5:24 pm

  After owning Mercedes, Lexus, Infinti, Cadillac, Acura, etc., after driving the 525i, it sold itself. Handling, style, comfort, reliability and service are superior. This is my first bimmer, and it wont be my last

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  BEST BMW IVE OWNED!! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By LEDEAGLE - January 27 - 1:59 pm

  This is a superb machine!! I’ve had 3 other BMWs, Mercedes and a Porsche, and this car kills them all. Fuel economy is astonishing, and performance especially on the road is exhilarating.

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  On top of E-Class! - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By sdvoudouris - January 22 - 4:04 pm

  Outstanding road characteristics, very pleasant even at long journeys, the i- drive is very practical and simple, the best engine, very good interior space and luggage compartment. Dont compare it to the E-Class! Nothing can be compared to the 5 star 5 SERIES!

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  BMW540 Review - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By Avery - January 22 - 2:30 pm

  The 540 is a joy to drive. Handles like a race car with 4 doors. Fuel economy better not be important to you if you own one of these. I smile everytime I climb in.