2003 BMW 5-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.76/5 Average
224 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

This is your last chance to get a traditionally styled 5 Series -- next year, its styling becomes more closely aligned with the controversial 7 Series. For now, BMW will offer a DVD-based navigation system for the existing 5 Series -- but alas, you must still give up an in-dash CD player if you opt for the nav system. Besides that, rear head protection airbags (optional last year) are now standard across the line. Additionally, all six-cylinder models get a standard moonroof. Standard on the manual-shift 540i (and optional with the automatic) is a new sport package that includes 18-inch wheels, a revised sport suspension, front and rear spoilers, visible exhaust outlets, black side molding, a black headliner, titanium-ringed gauges and an M footrest for the driver. Finally, the 525i gets a new alloy wheel design, and its premium package now includes rain-sensing wipers.

Pros:
  • Thrilling to drive, superb ride quality, upscale interiors, wide range of trim levels, clean exterior styling.
Cons:
  • Some confusing interior controls, demanding manual transmission, high-end models are pricey.

User Reviews:

Showing 151 through 160 of 224.00
  • Excellent Car, buy it, but negotiate - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car has all the performance: steering, handling, braking, acceleration that I expect from a BMW. Its my second BMW, but this is the first 5. Im a stick shift driver so Im surprised that I like driving an automatic. The 530i has enough power to overcome the automatic.

  • Refined Excellence - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I bought the 2003 530i auto with comfort seats, heated steering wheel, xenon, and DSP stereo option. I commute 100 miles to work each day and the heated comfort seats and steering wheel keep my aching, middle-class, white collar bones feeling great. The Digital Sound Processing option for the stereo is nothing more than glorified reverb and definitely not worth the money. Performance, engineering, design, fit and finish are truly wonderful. In the last year of production, there does not appear to be a single bug in the car. This car is a keeper.

  • Das Auto!! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Purchased our 2003 530i a little over a year ago. Got it for $5K and at 130K miles. I do most of my own repairs and Ive never seen such awesome engineering on a car. Its a pleasure to work on if you are into car repair. Driving it is a real thrill that never gets old. Weve taken it on several long trips and it just loves the open road. Seats are amazingly comfortable. Usually back seats are a weak point in most sedans but this BMW has very comfortable rear seats. Gas mileage on a combined city/highway commute is about 25 mpg. For a 24 valve 6 cylinder that is very good mileage. Hope to keep this beauty for the foreseeable future.

  • Wonderful Ride - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car is a joy to drive - excellent handling and driving environment. The solid build quality gives you a feeling of safety as well. Perfect mix of fun to drive and comfort.

  • The best car I ever have - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This is the first German car I own. I totally like its performance and handling. Unlike any Japanese and American cars I had before, the BMW 5 is so fun to drive. It feels solid, comfortable, and excellent build quality. It is worth the money I paid.

  • BEST CAR - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    BEST CAR I EVER LEASED AND I HAVE LEASED OVER 20 CARS

  • My 540i 6-Speed - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This car is outstanding! You simply have to drive this car to get a better understanding of just how phenominal this car really is. You get it all-- performance, luxury, comfort, style, just for starters. You will not be amiss in owning a 540i.

  • rafic 5 serious - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    i love this car i lovee the handling the performance confort every thing i like the new 5 serious way better then my causins 2003 lexus es 330

  • Awesome Experience!!! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Without a doubt this is a awesome automobile. I love the joy getting behind the sports steering wheel.From those beautiful/masculine 17" wheels, sports package, premium package and the very cool xenon headlights to the cold winter package I love how the car handles, how the engine responds cruising at 70mph and its ability to zoom up to a higher speed in a matter of seconds. The only problem is finding the time to drive as much as Id like.

  • This isnt your mothers wagon! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    While it is true the sport suspension gives you precise feedback, I find the handling and roadfeel to be one of the best characteristics of the car. For those who are looking for a true perfomance car with the practicality of a wagon look no further. Put four snow tires on the car and winter is no issue. For those seeking to drive your living room this is not the car for you. The BMW 540ia wagon sets the standard for fit and finish among its rivals, and passes them in so other many characteristics and qualities. This is a car I can drive for 8 hours continually arriving without an ache.

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