What does it cost?
For With the right options, the BMW 5 Series strikes just the right balance between comfort, refinement and dynamic excellence. The interior is plush and feels suitably expensive.
Against If you don’t add the right options, the Five is very disappointing to drive. Those options aren’t cheap, either.
What Car? says
A classy, spacious and refined executive saloon with low running costs and excellent engines. It's just a pity the standard BMW 5 Series isn't better to drive.
What Car? readers say
4.6
There are 22 BMW 5 Series versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
Enthusiasts will argue that you buy a BMW for its driving prowess, which means a powerful engine is essential.
The 535i, 550i and the mighty M5 will deliver all the thrills you need, but the Five will mainly be bought by pragmatists rather than enthusiasts – that’s why the incredible 520d ED is the best option.
The relatively small diesel engine will average almost 63mpg, and if you're a company car driver, the CO2 output of just 119g/km places the car in a low tax bracket. The fact is, though, that every engine in the range is among the most efficient of its type.
One more thing – on SE and M Sport versions, the standard suspension gives a lumpy ride and disappointing handling. We’d recommend adding some options, although they’re a bit pricey. Four-cylinder models and the Hybrid can be had with Variable Damper Control, while the remaining six-cylinder cars can be had with the all-singing Adaptive Drive system. In both cases, they’re money well spent.
Reader test team says:
BMW 5 Series Saloon 535d SE 4dr
I'm now 2 months into my 535d ownership and it has been a delightful experience so far. Having previously run a 3 series coupe on 19 inch wheels and…
5
out of 5 stars
BMW 5 Series Saloon 520d SE 4dr
520d SE with Sport auto box. Have a few extras on car but have listed the ones that transform this car first. Read the reviews carefully, the press…
5
out of 5 stars
BMW 5 Series Saloon 523i SE 4dr
The car looks great, the interior is nice and the toys are good. The iDrive works well as do most of the electronics. My car is an 525 SE (3.0) with…
2
out of 5 stars
BMW 5 Series Saloon 520d SE 4dr
The 5 series looks and is very special. The body is beautiful from any angle and the interior exudes class. On the move the cabin is quiet and very…
5
out of 5 stars
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Our pick of the range
BMW 5 Series Saloon 520d SE 4dr
No other executive car can rival the BMW 5 Series 520d SE for refinement, quality or efficiency. Adding Variable Damper Control makes it great to drive, too, but be warned - it’s not nearly as good without.
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