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- Highs Choice of powerful turbocharged engines, roomy and luxurious cabin, loads of tech features.
- Lows Prioritizes comfort over handling, lack of interior storage space, pricey options.
- Verdict Although it doesn't drive like BMW sports sedans of the past, the 5-series is a comfortable luxury model with a pedigree.
Overview
Once the gold standard for sports sedans, in recent years the BMW 5-series has morphed into more of a luxury cruiser. Technologically advanced and supremely comfortable, the newest 5-series performs well in many categories but lacks the lively handling of BMWs we fondly remember from the past. And the styling, while familiar, might be too conservative for some buyers. A strong turbocharged inline-four engine is standard in the 530i, and an even more potent turbocharged inline-six propels the 540i .
What's New for 2017?
As the beneficiary of a complete redesign this year, nearly every element of the 5-series is new. It may not look all that different than before, but it features a new chassis, an overhauled interior, and new engine choices that are both more powerful and more efficient.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- 530i: $52,195
- 540i: $57,445
- Gran Turismo: $61,895
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Smooth, powerful, and efficient, both the 2.0-liter 248-hp four-cylinder engine in the 530i and the 3.0-liter six-cylinder, which produces 335-hp, in the 540i motivate this big sedan with authority. Each pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts intuitively and quickly. The six-cylinder is silky and potent, and it makes a delightful noise to boot. The newest 5-series prioritizes quiet and comfort over excitement and liveliness, which makes sense for a luxury sedan but likely will disappoint enthusiasts. This BMW is not the nimble corner-carver you might expect. Its soft, plush ride and slow, numb steering conspire to make it more at home cruising boulevards than romping over curvy back roads.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Rich appointments and good ergonomics make the 5-series cockpit a civilized space. Comfortable front and rear seats make it among the most accommodating cars in its class, and it features an impressive amount of technology, even for this high-tech segment. But many elements that improve the BMW’s interior ambience are optional, such as the SensaTec (BMW marketing speak for faux leather) dashboard upgrade and various levels of real, cow-derived leather upholstery. The BMW’s large trunk is on par with its competitors, but the cabin is lacking in cubbies and storage compartments.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Although the BMW iDrive system’s capability and configurability seem overwhelming at first, its clear graphics, logical organization, and easy-to-use control knob make it intuitive to navigate. It misses out on a perfect score because essential smartphone-integration features are either optional or not available. A large, 10.2-inch high-resolution central display is standard on every 5-series model and is controlled by the rotary knob, the touchscreen, or voice commands. Navigation, a USB port, and Bluetooth streaming audio are standard, although you must pay extra for SiriusXM satellite radio and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Android Auto is not available, and neither is an auxiliary input jack.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the BMW 5-Series’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
