Overview & Reviews

The 2008 BMW 5 Series receives a number of significant changes, most notably a pair of new six-cylinder engines. The base 5 Series is now the 528i and features a 230-horsepower inline-6, while the 535i is powered by the same twin-turbo 300-hp inline-6 found in the 3 Series. There are a number of high-tech standard and optional additions to the 5 Series that allow it to keep pace and, in a few instances, surpass the rapidly advancing competition. To spot the updated 5 Series, look for a barely noticeable redesigned front airdam, new headlight lenses and LED taillights.

• Exceptional ride and handling dynamics, smooth and vigorous engines, premium cabin furnishings, precision build quality, strong resale value.

• More expensive than most competitors, iDrive system is still a pain in the Bangle butt.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 206.00

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  Great car but iDrive is still ridiculous - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By patrick - November 12 - 12:17 am

  The car handles incredibly well as a BMW should. Its quiet, fast, comfortable and fun. But if you are cold or hot...dont expect iDrive to help you out. It takes several minutes to get through the menus. Stupid. If you have an ipod...you better not have a lot of music on it...unlike the ipod scrolling function it takes FOREVER to get through the list. If you want to use the navigation to plot your route...dont use this system. It chokes on the simplest request. In short iDrive, if I had known how truly bad it was before I bought the car would likely have made me buy an Infiniti (and add Dynamat soundproofing). Better value. More intelligently designed user information and climate controls.

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  Sweet car - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Manny - November 2 - 5:59 pm

  Interesting to see all of the problems with the twins 535i. On BMW number 3, first 528i after two 3 series a 99 and a 06. Traded up from the 06 325i with 16" run flats, and could not stand the ride anymore, although it cornered like it was on rails. Chose the 528i because I did not want run flats tires on the next bimmer. Car runs great and has only needed one oil change thus far. Drove a 1200 miles round trip averaging 30 mpg at 80 mph. If not sure, stick with the aspirated inline 6s they are bullet prove. Ask any service center mechanic and they will tell you that the 5s are the most trouble free BMWs in the line up. Good solid car.

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  Worst car Ive ever owned - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Ryan - October 15 - 7:22 pm

  This is by far the worst car I have ever owned. You would think BMW would notify their customers if they had an issue with the car. The fuel injectors and the fuel pump are constantly malfunctioning and every time I take it in, they tell me there is no issue. This is my first BMW and my last.

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  Too many problems! - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By Tooo much trouble! - October 5 - 5:34 pm

  Had more trouble out of this car than any I have ever owned. Replaced fuel pump twice which was under warranty. But dealer has not a clue what is wrong with this vehicle. My wife is the primary driver. The car idles like a model T Ford on a cold start. Dash lights up like a jukebox saying "engine misfire" on a weekly basis, and says "reducing power" and will not go faster than 25 mph. First they blamed it on a program, then fuel pumps, then the fuel, then it was ethanol. In the shop 27 days the last six months. More than 60 grand for this, what gives! Saw a lawyer last week about the lemon law. Its a shame, the car drives beautifully when its right.

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  Excellent Car - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By bmw5xi - October 4 - 12:31 am

  Waited 22000 miles before my first review. Before I test drove this car, I did not quite understand all the hype about this being the ultimate driving machine. After 22000 miles and many hours driving this car there is only one thing I can say- this car dives like no other!! I test drove the lexus GS and LS, mercedes E class, Infinity G35, M45 and Jaguar XF. This car blows them all away. Some evenings even after a tired day after work, I still look forward to taking the car out for a spin. Have had 2 minor issues with the car (faulty seat belt sensor and check engine light)-both fixed by dealer at no cost. Now I see why people fall in love with this car despite occasional minor issues!

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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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  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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  The BEST Car I Have Owned - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By rsulliuvan - September 14 - 7:26 pm

  Sports and premium pkgs. This car is amazing. Handling is superb, wet or dry. Dunlop run flats hold the road as if you were on rails. The most comfortable seats you have ever placed your tail on. Design is flawless, in and out. Fantastic on long trips, 33 mpg., and a great way to commute. Why I waited so long to purchase THE ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE is beyond me. Of the dozen or so autos I have owned, this is by far the best. 100% class.

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  Simply a Pleasure - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By NY, NY - September 9 - 11:42 am

  The car is fantastic. Looked/test drove numerous luxury SUVs and crossovers - none compare. The car is incredible to drive never reminded you are driving a WAGON. Have all avail packages and most options aside from heads up display and performance tires. Comfort seats are unbeatable for long drives. Find the interior space is perfect. front and rear seats are very comfortable and incredibly supportive, and storage space is plentiful. Finally, have to say my wife and I found the iDrive to be far easier to master than expected having read the poor reviews. X-drive is great especially in snow in rain conditions. Have had some silly QC issues that should not take place in a car of this caliber,

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By AZbeemer - September 9 - 8:23 am

  This is my second 5 series. The power of the 535i is awesome. I love the ride and enjoy how it handles. I am a guy that likes to know the power is there if I need/want it. I am completely amazed at the quality of this car.