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 71 through 80 of 142.00
  • Fun Car - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    My first BMW and I love it. I did have the car in the shop 3 times. 1st exhaust sensor went out. 2nd the car had to be towed to the shop...bad oil pressure sensor... I decided to trade-in for LEXUS reliability but after I test drove LEXUS I decided to keep my BMW. I just cant give-up the BMW performance... and I still have the warranty.

  • Solid Performer - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    I traded an 04 Mercedes e500 for the 545 and am happy with the decision. The 545 is sportier, a bit quicker and grippier on the roads. I have to say, I think the Benz has a few things over my 545 - interior and exterior design primarilly, though the "Banglisms" (designer) on this car are growing on me...

  • A car youll always remember - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    A total kick every time I get behind the wheel. The quality of the car and driving experience make this car worth every penny. Everyone should own one at least once. I felt the 330i was a little small, while the 530i was a perfect fit for my life style. Treat yourself........

  • Passing on the curves - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Once upon a time in a galaxy far far away, I owned an M6. I looked upon the 5 series with distain, a four door sedan for the family man. Not for a real life he-man who needed a vessel for all his testosterone. All that went out the window like so much cat hair on a windy day when I drove a 545 and fell in love. This car not only has more power than my 87 M6 but its handling is actually better. so much for my distain of sedans. If there is any shortfall its inside. I do miss the hand-stitched leather dash and the little non-functional soda cooler in the back. But thats more than made up for the ability to transport passengers who actually have legs. Bravo BMW, the 545 is a winner.

  • 545 series rocks - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Having grown up in the fifties and sixties with muscle cars I really wanted another one but not some me too machine that had no class or handling. After driving everything out there from the Corvette to the Chrusler 300 I found the 545i with the sport package to be the best handling car I have ever driven. The progressive steering is awesome and stopping is as positive as is the neck snapping acceleration from the luxury type car. Once you get used to the screwy iDrive its not as bad as it was in the earlier models and you get quite good at it. The Nav system isnt as intuitive or easy to use as the Lexus SC430 my wife has (which also boogies) but its Okay. BMW has me two more years.

  • Fun to Drive - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    The 530i is a fantastic car to drive. iDrive takes some time to learn but spend the time in learning at the front end and you will eliminate the frustrations. Handling is wonderful, pick up is great, and I personally like the styling. I cant say enough about this car.

  • black beauty! - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Cant wait to cross break-in period, this car is born to be driven hard. Exceptional handling, power to spare, gorgeous interior. What more can I say, except cant wait to drive the new m5. My jet black 545 truly gets better the faster and more demanding the driving gets, dont sell yourself short by going with the smaller 525/535. You will not be sorry with the sport-packaged v8. Ive heard the iDrive was a paiN, but as a first time BMW buyer it is very easy to use. This car is why driving is so fun, I have no regrets at all, only tons of miles to enjoy. Ya-hoo!!

  • Passes Anything INCLUDING gas stations - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    When I was a kid, I had a 1968 Pontiac GTO, which could pass just about anything but a gas station. My new BMW 545 will pass that Goat, and gas stations, too (I get 18-19 mpg in town, 26-28 on the interstates). In fact, largely due to its wonderful 6- speed Steptronic transmission, it actually gets better gas mileage than my other Bimmer, a 2004 330 coupe with 5-speed auto. The much-reviled iDrive is easy to master if you take the time to study the owners manual. I have little sympathy for the whiners who invest $50K+ on a terrific vehicle, but not several hours to read the manual. IDrive will be your friend if you let it. Ride and Handling - outstanding, as expected.

  • Excellent Job - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    Ordered this 545i (still built in Germany) car and got it in 4 weeks. Excellent power and nice new interior with the Dakota Auburn Leather. Good solid fit and finish. Had an 02 540i and I like this one even more. Exterior styling they got mostly right, still looks determined and stout.

  • My BMW 545i Six Speed - 2005 BMW 5-Series
    By -

    BMW gave the owners of the older E39 a reason to trade up. The newer E60 is so different in terms of improved handling and balance its hard to believe they came from the same company. I took possession of the car in Munich so I got to drive it on the Autobahn. Wow, what a thrill. When a car is designed to travel safely at 130 mph, its even safer at 70 mph. Its so well thought out in every detail that it seems every design feature has its own complex rationale. It is probably the the perfect car for me.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area