For One of the best executive estates, with top-notch quality, fantastic refinement, strong engines, masses of space and outstanding handling and steering. Well equipped too, and cleaner and more frugal than rivals
Against The ride is firm, especially on M Sport models. The interior design is stark, and not everyone gets on with BMW’s iDrive system. An auto ‘box costs extra for most models
What Car? says
Still one of the finest executive estates you can buy, thanks to exceptional handling, refinement and quality. Also well equipped and more affordable to run than many rivals
Reader review rating
There are 23 BMW 5 Series versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
A replacement for this 5 Series Touring isn’t too far off, but it’s still one of the finest executive estates on sale. These days even the entry-level versions have plenty of power and kit.
Our favourite is the second step on the diesel ladder, the 525d SE, which combines good performance with outstanding refinement and incredibly low running costs.
M Sport trim is popular and adds aggressive styling upgrades, but the combination of bigger wheels and tweaked suspension makes the already firm ride pretty unforgiving, and it’s worth nothing that the self-levelling rear suspension on Touring models means it’s even less supple than the saloon.
Most buyers will go for an automatic gearbox, which is a cost option on all but the most powerful diesel model. We’d avoid the £850 Active steering option because the standard set-up is excellent.
BMW’s three- or five-year fixed priced servicing packages are available across the range - and worth having.
Reader test team says:
BMW 5 Series Touring 520d SE 5dr
I have owned my 520d SE from new and over three…
BMW 5 Series Touring 520d SE 5dr
A very good car spoiled by Run-Flat tyres. I can't…
BMW 5 Series Touring 520d M Sport 5dr
Positives: Quite big, looks nice,…
BMW 5 Series Touring 545i SE 5dr
Bought this car as a one year old and 7k miles…
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