Overview & Reviews

The 525 and 530 models receive an all-new 3.0-liter inline-six engine this year, and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is now available to serve those who need a little more bad-weather bite. BMW is also offering a versatile 5 Series wagon to U.S. customers once more, though only in 530xi trim. The 545i has been replaced by the 550i, which features a 360-horsepower, 4.8-liter V8.

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

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 155.00

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  Big bucks German bad transmission cheap parts - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By wilczewm - November 23 - 1:12 pm

  Bought new. Minor problems while under warrantee. Since then, replaced rear wheel bearing at 40K. Transmission slam from second to first like getting hit from behind. BMW engineers created a computer work around for this common problem but will not fix this default and you must pay dealer whether it works or not. Many people being talked into replacing transmission for $5k. Cheap dash components like cup holders and ashtray flimsy, had to replace both two times. For the price paid, quality is severely lacking. Would not recommend buying a used one. Local dealer repair shop is horrible. Had vehicle 9 days on two occasions without fixing. BMW regional tech changed battery 2hrs.

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  Dissapointing 524i - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Ben Bimmer - July 2 - 9:57 pm

  This car first and foremost is weak. It is a big car with no wow factor. Do not purchase premium package because youll get bored quickly. There is no exhilaration factor, nothing that stands out except good steering. The weird curves on this car make it somewhat confusing when backing up as it is very bloated. Electronic throttle makes the car seem not connected with the driver, there seems to be a delay. The looks are not impressive, I thought this was a car and not a spaceship. This car is a huge disappointment as I have compared it to my brothers 2001 BMW 525i which looks better and somehow feels more reliable and nicer to drive, has some more oomph to it. Do not be fooled.

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  BMWs Worst - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By Bill Richter - February 13 - 12:31 am

  Ill start with the positive: the car is fun to drive. Now the negatives: There are several fatal design flaws that make ownership a real pain. For example, the six disk changers cartridge is at the back of the glove box and only accessible from the passenger seat (with all the glove box contents emptied). The center consoles is hard to access, provides limited space and lacks a power outlet or ipod connection. Unexplainably, there are two power outlets for the back seat passengers. idrive is useless. For a simply function, like shifting the air vent from the dash to the feet, it takes a dozen clicks. The 3 series is a classic and the 7 is luxury, but the 5 is downright useless.

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  HUGE disappointment - 2006 BMW 5-Series
  By jw - October 23 - 1:06 am

  This car is highly overrated and Im very sorry I purchased it. I will never purchase a BMW again. Its not comfortable, and even at 3000 miles hasnt been reliable. I intend to sell it and purchase a true luxury car. The ride and drive arent smooth or what you should be able to expect from a car at this price. Most disappointing is that it isnt fun to drive. It feels like my fathers car with a little more hp. The cup holders are hysterical---the drivers and passengers are both on the passenger side---very uncomfortable to access and dangerous to use lean over to use when driving. The leg room is worse than most cars this size. My first and last BMW.