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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  Quick Review - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By rich mikulak - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Terrific car. iDrive system is not an issue. Most of the stuff it controls you wouldnt change while driving. If you can use an ATM, you can use the iDrive. Candidly, the only thing I miss is the control wheel on the dash that controlled the temp of the air that hits your face.

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  If only the electronics were executed! - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By David J2005 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Great car! However, everytime the car is started, the "mouse" must be pushed to acknowledge the safety warning. This is a pain. I also have a MB which has the same message, but times out in seconds automatically.

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  BMW xi 2010 - 2010 BMW 5-Series
  By gregoryx - September 30 - 1:15 am

  this is my 2nd 535xi. bought my first after considering + test driving infiniti,lexus,volvo,buick. i found the bmw to be a more pleasurable drive than all of them. its nice to know that you are in a vehicle that seems engineered for the driver. its the best vehicle ive owned. i highly recommend this vehicle. i also have lived in 3 states in the past 4 years and i have to say that the service experience has been excellent in every dealership so far. the service departments seem to understand the value of customer service as part of the consumers brand loyalty. cup holders dont bother me - i dont eat in my car nor do i let my kids (smile) so no big deal

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  BMW xi 2010 - 2010 BMW 5-Series
  By gregoryx - September 29 - 11:58 pm

  In 2008 i test drove the GS300, MB Eclass, Buick Lacross, Infiniti, and the Volvo S80 and saved the BMW for last. i loved the vehicle and purchased my first BMW . . . i didnt appreciate the logistical difficulty of operating a vehicle with both a push button start AND a key. i loved the vehicle, the build quality, and the performance. A few weeks ago, i decided to give myself a gift and i bought the 2010 model with the comfort access, sat radio, and active cruise control. i took delivery a few days ago and this vehicle is even better than the 2008 model. the I drive interface is vastly improved and much more intuitive than my 08 model . . . and the voice recognition works much better

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  My New Lover----My 525i. - 1995 BMW 5-Series
  By RShad - September 26 - 11:45 pm

  After my 2006 Nissan Frontier was totalled my loan was paid off and I made out with 3000 dollars in my pocket. Instead of starting a new car loan I turned to used BMWs. I found a gem in (my new) 525i. Purchased with 188k plus miles for $2950 I stayed optimistic and I was right. This is beautiful and timeless design with excellent handling on any surface. It is unbelieveably smooth and comfortable. Previous owner had recently replaced water pump and radiator so that was out of the way. Only drawback is lack of power for a 6 cylinder but its not a bother knowing I can corner it at 60mph without hittin the brakes!.. Not to mention the great fuel economy for its size. Find one,buy it, keep it.

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  Awesome with some quirks - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By M. Corbin - September 26 - 10:01 am

  Had the dreaded engine issue that is common for these twin turbos but as long as I buy Chevron gas, its no problem! Love the features and the performance capability. The fact that I wont pay for the first 4 yrs of service is a bonus. If youre looking to buy a new one, check into the European Delivery pkg so you can try it out on the Autobahn! U wont be disappointed.

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  BMW 550i review - 2009 BMW 5-Series
  By DH - September 25 - 6:59 pm

  this is our 3rd bmw previously owned an 07 convertible & 07 7series. there is alot to luv and enjoy about this car. comfort, ride, luxury all in one package. standouts are the sports mode/pkg/kit & signature silver color. hd radio stands out immediately more car companies should offer it.

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  The best car for the buck - used - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By dbbbbb - September 23 - 9:29 pm

  This is my 4th Bimmer, 2 530s, 1 325 - junk, and 1 X3 - junk... but the 530 is awesome. No problems with 50K, just normal wear and tear but the front control bushings needed replacing at 20K, engine is solid and performs gutsy for an I6, the comfort has so many option that you cant go wrong and the feel is sporty but luxurious, tight, but comfortable, tight as you want it, with all the variations in the seat controls, and all the controls are also on the passenger seat. After 2 yrs. I just found a new control for the back rest to tilt, huh, that was cool. I love the temp/ac/heat controls. You can out the screen on ac and watch the ventilation automatically fluctuate, get one!

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  My 4th 5 series but this ones the best - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By michael - September 23 - 7:56 pm

  Ive owned a new 5 series every year, 2005-2008, but this one tops them all. The powerful engine "makes" the car. The new interior design, along with programmable satellite and FM radio stations is a plus. Addition of wood along the door makes it luxurious. The electronic transmission takes some getting used to, but no problem. Youve got to get premium sound with HD radio option and Sirius radio if you are an audiophile and love crisp, clear, outstanding separation of sound. I dont like the standard wheels, but one can live with them instead of spending 4000 dollars on upgraded wheels and tires. The addition of leather around the console is also a nice touch.

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  Best car in the world - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Al - September 18 - 8:49 pm

  Have this car for two years, bought it used. Drove to Nova Scotia from New York this year and had a great drive all the way. Incredible handling, great comfort, powerful as all get out! Am 78 years old and have had them all--MBs, Lexus rx, 330S etc. Nothing compares to this car which makes you regret it when you exit the car--you want to drive on!