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 221 through 224 of 224.00
  • Black Beauty BMW - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Awesome car!!! I never owned anything like it! I got a new 2003 and what a sweet deal! I didnt care for the new 2004 coming out, so I am sooooo happy to get my 2003, Sport, xenon, cold weather package and a 3.9 finacing! There is a heck of a deal out there now! I am so glad I BOUGHT a new one! The Driving is awesome, the looks you get as you drive by, the handling, the comfort and the feeling of oh yes, its mine!

  • Enjoying it - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Just put 1000 miles on it in two weeks and enjoyed every minute of it. Have been driving the solid Volvo 940 and sporty Maxima, 525 is much better than the sum of the two. Hope the 525 will last even longer (240k for Maxima, 240k Volvo is still running).

  • The best car Ive ever own - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    My BMW 540I 6 Speed is my fourth BMW. I have own 2 Mercedes Benz 3 other BMWs but the BMW 540I has to be the best car. I love the way it handles cornering, stopping, power, perfornmance over all. The styling of the exterior as well as the interior of the car has to be one if not the most sexiest one. I also like the fact that I feel very safe while driving it, where on other cars I dont get that feeling. The BMW 540I is the best car to drive.

  • A stunning performance - 2003 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I got more than what I had bargained for-the power and torq with the steptronic is just amazing, has nimble handling and a true sport feel. Interior/exterior workmanship/design is excellent, although the cup holders and stereo could use redesigning. Love the navigation; Im surprised at how accurate it is. All in all - I would highly recommend this car for family (excellent safety features) or fun/leisure. I would also highly recommend Ulysses at East Bay BMW in Pleasanton, CA. They were all just Excellent! p.s:use the speed limit sensor (included with the onboard computer) you never know when youll hit 100!! :-)

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