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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  Fun Car - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By gene - July 29 - 4:34 am

  My first BMW and I love it. I did have the car in the shop 3 times. 1st exhaust sensor went out. 2nd the car had to be towed to the shop...bad oil pressure sensor... I decided to trade-in for LEXUS reliability but after I test drove LEXUS I decided to keep my BMW. I just cant give-up the BMW performance... and I still have the warranty.

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  Awesome - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By Duff - July 22 - 7:44 pm

  This car cannot compare to any other vehicle in the same class. The car handles the same at 40 as it does at 120. It has the power to handle almost any situation and handles just as well in foul weather with the exception of snow! If you have considered something other than a BMW, think again! Everyday is a new driving experience with a BMW. Be careful, once you stepped up to a different class driving machine, you will never take a step backwards.

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  Solid Performer - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By Dave - July 15 - 8:10 pm

  I traded an 04 Mercedes e500 for the 545 and am happy with the decision. The 545 is sportier, a bit quicker and grippier on the roads. I have to say, I think the Benz has a few things over my 545 - interior and exterior design primarilly, though the "Banglisms" (designer) on this car are growing on me...

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  Instrumentation Disaster - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By sparcusa - June 23 - 10:38 pm

  This iDrive thing is an abomination. My minivan radio has more capabilities. The iDrive has a nice color screen, looks cool but essentially does nothing. Really! Shockingly disfunctional and distracts from the overall driving experience. It constantly displays a warning that essentially says "DONT LOOK AT THIS WHILE YOUR DRIVING". If I cant upgrade this thing, I think Im going to trade it in. really, really disappointed.

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  Wonderful at its best - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By roy - June 13 - 6:53 pm

  This car changes driving from a chore to a pleasure even ruffle your composure. the sound system is great, the insulation keeps out road noise, the seat is comfortable, and the luxury inlay is beautiful. The moonroof is fun, and the remote control key system makes you feel like a spoiled rich man. Unfortunately it has been to the dealer for repairs 10 times in under 2 years, and some of the problems, like water leaking through the back door are serious. After initially being totally in love with this car, I have begun to wonder if I would be foolish ever to buy another one.

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  GREEN MACHINE - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By EASYED - June 12 - 3:23 pm

  The sports package tires and rims do not meet the rough roads (potholes,etc.). Expect out of pocket costs (new tires/new rims )potentially after 25,000 miles. Out of pocket costs could near $3,000. Also, three recalls to date, which are not what I expected in a $60k vehicle. Cupholders are terrible!!!

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  Bmw performance - 2001 BMW 5-Series
  By Mr.Bmw - June 4 - 2:29 pm

  This car is one of the best cars I ever driven. The styling is very terrific. I love my xenon lights and the rounded fog lamps. The leather seats can feel a little uncomfortable at times but if youre not going on long trips it should be just right. The thing I hate most is the reliability. I seem to find myself at my local Bmw dealership about every month for such things like noises, brakes etc.

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  Could be better - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By JMZ - May 30 - 8:13 pm

  Like the looking and performance. Marked 225 hps but feels stronger than Infiniti G35 during the acceleration, which claimed 280 hps. Navigation system works better than my portable Garmin one, particularly the voice reminder, split screen: one for map and one for arrow direction. Parktronic and adaptive headlight are good features. The basic stereo sound is already better than the Bose in my previous Infiniti i30. Things I do not like: the interior looks cheaper than most of the same level cars in the market. IDrive is ok but not much advantages. No mp3 playable although the manual said so. No DVD playable in parking like Infiniti M Series.

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  Inherited Car - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Teri - April 29 - 9:41 am

  Im not a "car person" so you guys bear with me. I inherited this car from my husband. We were married this year and this was his car he was left with after the divorce (wife got Toyota Land Cruiser and he got one for himself after awful experience with a Ford Explorer) The car has alot of miles on it, but according to others, not alot for a BMW. All maintenance is expensive! Still needs a bit of work, but drives like a dream and looks great! I have thought of trading in for something new, but Ive decided to keep it because it really is good quality. If I could buy a brand new car and price was not an option, it would be another BMW.

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  BMW545i - 2005 BMW 5-Series
  By 545i - April 20 - 8:04 pm

  I love everything about the car but the iDrive control. Gas mileage is far less than stated on the sticker.