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 car isn't better to drive.
Reader review rating
4.555555
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There are 19 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 can be had with Variable Damper Control, while six-cylinder models 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 530d SE 4dr
I recently bought this car after owning a 320d SE…
5
out of 5 stars
BMW 5 Series Saloon 520d SE 4dr
520d SE 4dr sports auto with VDC. Only had the car…
4
out of 5 stars
BMW 5 Series Saloon 535d SE 4dr
After 5 months/11,000 miles I`m delighted with my…
5
out of 5 stars
BMW 5 Series Saloon 530d SE Auto 4dr
530d se Sports Auto . 6 months old and 22,000…
5
out of 5 stars
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