2005 BMW 5-Series Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.60/5 Average
142 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2005, the interior of all models receives more extensive wood trim on the center console, and adjustable front lumbar support is now standard on the 530i and 545i. Poplar wood trim is now included on the 525i and 530i. Anthracite Maple wood trim is a no-cost option. The 525i receives 17-inch Star Spoke cast-alloy wheels, and park distance control is now standard on the 545i. Active Steering is now offered as a stand-alone option on all models. The 545i now comes standard with the six-speed manual transmission, with the six-speed steptronic automatic available as a no-cost option. BMW's innovative SMG sequential manual gearbox is available on the 530i and 545i.

Pros:
  • One of the most satisfying midsize sport sedans you can buy, ultrarefined engines, multiple transmissions, tastefully appointed cabin, exceptional build quality, strong resale value.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 31 through 40 of 142.00
  • Well, I always wanted one - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This is my 37th car in my life (more cars than years old) and I always wanted a 5 Series and now I fianlly got one. It is exactly what I wanted performance-wise, powerful, smooth and great handling. I have yet to feel the tranny shift, it is butter smooth. The comfort is excellent, I have both Sport and Premium pkgs and nav. The fit and finish are perfect and the brakes are great. My only complaints? Lack of storage - my cell phone resides on the shelf provided by the nav system. And apparently the computer is skewed, the other day my gas gauge read just under half tank, the computer told me I had 73 miles to empty, yet the fuels light came on and I had to put 17 gals into an 18 gal tank?

  • 530I - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I bought mine with 15000 miles on it. I also owned a previous certified pre-owned 2000 (I cant get myself to puchase a new one). While I enjoy the "sedan" feel, it is not as responsive as my previous 5 series and also my wifes 335i blows it away in the fun category. But with that said, I bought a sedan and I love it (120 mph feels like 45 mph)! I only wish the ergonomics were a tad better (cup holders, cruise, tilt, wipers, etc.). For the money, give me the beemer and keep the lexus/acura!

  • Super Car, with Problems - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I know the service techs far more than I should for such a great car. Do NOT put anything liquid in the trunk and expect not to fry your iDrive. Some idiots in Germany made the trunk porous and put the iDrive electronics package in the trunk, so if you have cooler and it tips over, immediately get out your rags, etc., and get that water out. I have fried the iDrive twice in this way, and it cost a bundle to fix it. Really poor engineering.

  • A Pleasure to Drive - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Silver grey color looks great. Took a few weeks to become comfortable with iDrive, but easier to master than I thought it would be. First two months with over 4,000 miles and no quality or operational glitches whatsoever. Wife has 03 525 that we have had great fun with. Seats in wifes car much more comfortable, but otherwise she would rather drive mine and so would I.

  • This is a disappointment - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Owned many BMW products. All great cars except for this one. Car had repeated problems with navigation screen. I was on my third screen. The computer also reported many false positive problems that would mysteriously disappear and reappear. Great car to drive. Great performance. Actually good gas mileage for high-performance 8-cylinder. Unfortunately, I spent more time with my service manager than my family. I traded the car in yesterday. Took a bath on the trade. But was worth it. Ouch. Good riddance.

  • After 4500 miles of fun driving - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I chose European Delivery and picked up my 545i in Munich, Germany. This car is designed to be driven at 100 mph + on German autobahn. At over 100 mph on German autobahn, this car can cruise at ease for hours like itÂ’s doing 60 mph. The 545 is deceivingly fast and extremely quiet. The fit and finish is excellent. With Sport Package option, the car feels like it can take corners better than a Porsche Boxster. The state of art BMW Valvetronic V8 engine is amazingly smooth and responsive. The braking and handling inspire confidence in the driver. The cabin is isolated from all outside noise. I prefer to hear the engine and exhaust a little bit more. BMW 545 is my 4 door sport car TOY!

  • Rockin - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This is the perfect car. Handles awesome, the combination of power versus fuel economy is phenomenal and the quietness and comfortable ride are totally there. Not to mention badass looks! The car is gorgeous. I have the black with tan interior. Nothing on the road is as beautiful except maybe the Benz 500. This thing runs like mad when you want and smooth as can be when you want to lay back. Stable as can be under rough pavement and braking is first rate. My former car was a 3 series and I miss the razor sharp handling, but the 3 was a little "touchy". Not so with the 530i. I have the premium package, the regular sound system is ok with me and the seats are very comfortable.

  • Awesome Car! - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This is one of the best cars I have ever had. I now have 36000 miles on mine, a 545i, and it is just as good, if not better, than when it was new. The build quality is impeccable and the performance beyond reproach.

  • I love my Beemer - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    This is one of the best cars I have ever owned. It is comfortable but sporty and the I-drive is very useful once you get used to it. It has more features than I have figured out yet. I like the exterior styling and note that many of the more popularly priced cars are staring to imitate it in 2005. The 3 liter in-line six is very powerful but quiet and the automatic transmission shifts very smoothly. Its a great car. My only gripe was I had a few glitches to correct at the dealer after delivery but it was handled quickly and efficiently.

  • Bought the car - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Execellent! Bought the car after I test drove it. Thought the car exceeded my expectations. The last car I bought was a 1995 525i ten years ago so obviously I still love the brand.

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