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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  I cannot give this car up-just too good. - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By barton - December 5 - 3:22 pm

  The 2003 530i is a classic, and in every sense a world-class vehicle. I cant seem to let mine go. I am the new leaser of a Ford Fusion Hybrid, and I am getting 43 to 44 MPG, and it rides smoothly, and it has all the modern synching and convenience features, including magnificent cup-holders (if you catch my drift), all for new price $29K with leather seats. Quite a good value, but I will never stop driving my 530i for fun, for that luxury feel and comfort, for that unbelievable handling and precision. As the last and most refined of the E39 series, it is just the best car, much more of a drivers car than even the 2004, and far more so than todays 5 series.

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  UNRELIABLE!! - 2010 BMW 5-Series
  By dmoore5 - November 28 - 4:57 pm

  I bought a 2010 535i xdrive used at 55,000 currently have 113,000 miles on it. I would expect some things to break at this mileage but this is ridiculous. I had to replaced the water pump in March and the starter in September. Then I got a message saying fuel pump on the screen and car would shut down. BMW replaced the electonic fuel pump on the way home I got the exact same message and car shut down. BMW then replaced the mechanical fuel pump and AGAIN car shut off with same warning. BMW then replaced the EKPS Module, now I get an Engine Malfunction-Reduce Power message and I feel like Im in a semitruck. Cant wait to see what BMW says on Monday.

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  Buy the manual - 2004 BMW 5-Series
  By djlarroc - October 15 - 1:35 pm

  Felt compelled to add my review since it is positive and most people complain. This is my 4th BMW (3rd 5 series). All have been manual. This is another great sedan. Has been very reliable. 3 years and 25k miles. Have only had to replace a coolant sensor (cheap/easy fix). The car gets amazin HWY MPG (34ish) City 20ish. Accelerates and handles amazing. RWD, and have been caught in a few CO snow storms, and got me home. Its also a very safe car. About the only cons, is the I-drive has scared me a few times where it did not turn on, then all of a sudden turned on. But as far as mechanically, another excellent BMW sedan.

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  Fantastic Car - 2002 BMW 5-Series
  By archer_r - October 13 - 4:43 pm

  Ive owned this car for about 3 years and it still impresses me by its performance, handling, and comfort. The engine has ample power throughout the entire rev range. You could be cruising in 5th gear at 1500 RPM and it will still pull when you put your foot down. The car also rides very well. The ride is stiff yet comfrotable. You definately feel the road well and feel every bump, but its never uncomfrotable. The steering is also nice as well. It really makes you feel connected to the road, which is something some modern cars lack. For being a mid-sized sedan, this car really handles well. You can definately take corners with a lot of confidence in this car.

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  UPDATE since my last review (3/16/13) - 2010 BMW 5-Series
  By oakleyg - October 13 - 3:28 pm

  Purchased used with 37,000 miles. Now have 97,400 miles. Up to this point no issues. Have been averaging 28.5 MPG. Had first issue last week, very high pitched noise and rough idle at stop. Was traced to crankcase vent. Was covered under my extended warranty for $50 deductible. Tires and brakes were new at 37,000. Still OK, will probably replace tires before snow - live in USA Northeast.

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  Poor Tires equipped for the 5 series - 2011 BMW 5-Series
  By jackz1 - September 22 - 12:44 am

  Im a BMW fan and had several BMW cars bought or leased from BMW dealers before this 550I leased in Sept 2011 from Nick Alexander Imports in LA. No problem with BMW cars before this 550I which we had replaced 3 run flat tires within 7 months of lease with the same problem-internal cuts on tires. This is really unusual as I never had this tire issue with other BMW cars before. I filed a complaint with the dealer from which I leased the car but was told driver was responsible for tires.

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  Ive driven the compettors and Im happy I bought the BMW - 2011 BMW 5-Series
  By rdpalmercu - September 21 - 7:30 pm

  I like the car. My parents have been mercedes fans since I was 16. Two s classes at one point for awhile. But I drive my father cls 550 and it is no more fun to drive and have a young family (2 & 4) than either the s- class which has the in headrest dvd players... okay, those are worth it theyre nice. I have never been in position to afford such a car but I tested them all, the a6 came closest. It cost me roughly 35 with a 100k warranty, 24k miles on it when I bought it, premium package 2. Better acoustacics than the mercedes s class. Considering a new accord v-6 or maxima cost more I think it was a wise choice for an inevitabley poor investment.

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  2015 bmw 535i m sport space grey - 2015 BMW 5-Series
  By bfeller1 - September 12 - 3:33 pm

  Picked up a new 2015 BMW 535i M Sport and it has met all and exceeded my expectations. I pulled into a parking garage today to hear the attendant comment "thats one sweet ride", enough said! The m sport suspension puts the BMW back into this 535 and the 300hp engine does not get any sweeter (unless youre ready for the uncompromising m5 and the extra costs as well) the exterior with the m sport lines, 19 inch wheels and blacked out grille accentuate this sedan perfectly and the high tech interior is right on the money, multi contour seats just dont get any better and the heads up driver display is cutting edge.I have owned a mercedes e55 audi s4 and m3 and this vehicle tops the list

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  Not a BMW anymore - 2011 BMW 5-Series
  By bummer5 - August 4 - 11:26 am

  I have an 02 530i, love it. Purchased a 550ix because I love BMW....used to love BMW. This car drives like a Buick. Even sport mode floats on the road. The seats are awful and the engine sounds like a 4 cylinder Honda. I cant believe BMW would even put this out! I finally gave the car to my wife and went back to my 02 530i. Now that BMW is no longer "BMW", what do I buy?! So disappointed! Shame on you BMW!

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  The greatest car on the road!!! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By anthony_e39 - July 24 - 11:02 am

  Being only 16 years old I am fortunate enough to have a 2003 525i for my first car its got 45k miles and this car is truly a dream! It rides so smooth! Mine has the sport package and it is a joy to drive! It handles like a dream and the most fun car to own! If you have the opportunity to own one DONT HESITATE!!!! The repairs are kinda pricey but if youre a car guy like myself DIYing it will save you plenty of money! Truly love this car and am now a loyal BMW owner!