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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  BMW 5 Series: Before it got ugly. - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By dsidog - December 31 - 3:39 pm

  Great all-around car. A little light on power but I knew that when I bought it. Great handling for a sedan, always a pleasure to drive. I love this car. Ive owned 5 BMWs since 1976. I would not hesitate to buy another 5 series but for the looks. The new 5 is too ugly to look at every morning. Ill wait for the next body revision. They got this one right.

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  Great car even with no options - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By George - December 30 - 9:22 pm

  This is the first BMW I have bought. The car looks and rides better then any of the other cars I have owned (12) over the past 25 years. It may be a little high for most budgets but you will not be disapointed. Worth every penny. I only got Aust and had to have the navigation. The car is packed with features without spending tons on options. Completely satisfied with the performance on the basic 215 HP 525i.

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  Best all around - 2008 BMW 5-Series
  By wdt - December 30 - 7:23 am

  Had a 911, have 3 kids, needed something comfortable for the family. Looked at the 550i sport and thought Id get too many tickets. The 535i sport is just a little more "real world", but still handles like a proper sport sedan. The xi models understeer more than Id like, and the sport package on the i model is a true bmw sport package (suspension). The twin turbo motor gives you v8 torque and horsepower, I suspect that the ratings of 300 each is understated. Saving 10 grand over the 550 sport was worth it.

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  Car for car enthusiasts - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Bama - December 28 - 4:33 pm

  If you are into cars, you owe it to yourself to own a BMW 5 series. The technology is seemingly endless. One can set the temperature to cool off the car 30 minutes before you are scheduled to drive off. It has a motion detector as part of the anti-theft system. How about being able to check the oil from inside electronically? It is a little pricey but if you can afford just a little more, dont hesitate. The iDrive actually becomes intuitive after a while. With so many ways to set the personal settings, the iDrive is a necessity. Dont let it turn you off.

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  No going back to Lexus! - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By Pat - December 26 - 6:02 pm

  After owning a Lexus since 1998 (GS 400 and LS 430), I test drove the BMW for its renowned sports feel. There is no comparison! For a youthful yet practical drive, this is the top choice. The All Wheel capabilities allow a sports car in Northeast winters. I love to drive this car and there is plenty of room for two kids and two dogs!

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  1999 BMW 528iT - 1999 BMW 5-Series
  By Ichiro - December 26 - 3:51 am

  Purchased lease return at 43,000 miles from a used car dealership. The former owner was a middle aged lady, one owner. The car was basically just broken in. Have had car going on three years now and not a single problem except accidentally parking over a park stop and minor damage to the front air dam. Otherwise, absolutely a gem. The 17" BBS Cross-Spokes can be noisy, but the Bridgestone Turanza tires made it smooth as a Lexus, yet much sportier. The rim guards have prevented a couple rim rashes too. Im veering off, sound off for the tires now. Anyways, I highly recommend this car, this years build to anyone considering.

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  Happy with 530xi wagon - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Ross - December 26 - 3:31 am

  Great driving car, and very handsome. Gives a lot of confidence when driving in bad weather.

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  My first Bimmer - 2007 BMW 5-Series
  By Wayne Siegel - December 25 - 12:14 pm

  Having owned an E430 4-matic and Audi A8L prior to this, Im getting used to the smaller car. The iDrive system is terrible compared to MMI of Audi. Acceleration is a bit slow but handling is awesome in all weather conditions. Interior finish is a bit cheap with too much vinyl and tacky plastic buttons for this price-point! Fold down rear seats, Bluetooth and headup display are nice features. Getting 19-20 mpgs driving around northern NJ. I look forward to 7- series xi next time.

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  What a car ! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By BMWFan - December 24 - 2:00 am

  This car is truly a joy to drive. The Sports Package makes it especially fun and the 5 speed gearbox is a blast. My advice to anybody looking to buy a 5 series is to buy it now, before they switch over to the new 5 next summer. I believe the 530 offers the best price/performance trade off.

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  What a car ! - 2003 BMW 5-Series
  By bmwfan - December 24 - 2:00 am

  This car is truly a joy to drive. The Sports Package makes it especially fun and the 5 speed gearbox is a blast. My advice to anybody looking to buy a 5 series is to buy it now, before they switch over to the new 5 next summer. I believe the 530 offers the best price/performance trade off.