BMW 5-Series Saloon (10 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 25 January 2012
BMW is renowned for building cars that are great to drive but sometimes at the expense of comfort. However that's not the case with the 5-Series. It's the most complete executive saloon on the market and manages to blend superb handling with limousine-like comfort as well as unsurpassed cabin refinement. The elegant styling gives it a larger appearance than the previous model and is more akin to the bigger 7-Series, which is also the case with the upmarket cabin. Compared to its predecessor, this 5-Series feels more sophisticated and has the edge over alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The engine line-up is hugely impressive, with every model, even the entry-level 520d, offering great performance. It's also incredibly well equipped and all models get leather seats, parking sensors and Bluetooth. This is the car that truly sets a new standard for executive saloons. The BMW 5-Series is such a well-rounded car that it's hard to beat - especially when you take into consideration how good it is to drive, the excellent levels of standard equipment and its wallet-friendly fuel economy. With all this in its favour, the BMW 520d SE Business Media Saloon romped away with the 2011 Parkers Cost of Motoring award in the Executive sector.
5 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Buying new

Like other German brands, BMW dealers aren't exactly renowned for their generosity when it comes to giving discounts or deals on new cars. The 5-Series is a popular choice so showrooms won't be short of custom either. If you're a determined negotiator you may be lucky to get a modest amount off one of the petrol engines models such as the 523i or 528i. Alternatively, there's a lengthy options list to use a bargaining tool. All cars come very well equipped, especially compared to the alternatives. That's good news, but it does mean threatening the dealer with going to a rival brand won't be as effective.

4 out of 5

Buying used

The 5-Series is a hugely popular car on the second-hand market and there'll be no shortage of cars to choose from with the 520d the most prevalent. It's a common company car choice so you'll invariably find lots of high mileage (but one owner) cars at independent dealerships and car supermarkets. BMW showrooms are likely to have privately owned examples with more reasonable mileages. All models come well equipped with leather seats, Bluetooth and cruise control as standard so don't be fooled into thinking these are extras. What is worth looking out for is sat nav, which comes as part of the Multimedia or Business Advanced packages.

  • Boot/Load Space BMW 5-Series Saloon (10 on)
  • Interior BMW 5-Series Saloon (10 on)

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See 87 used BMW 5-Series Saloons for sale, starting at £9,500

4.5 out of 5

Selling

There'll be no problems selling a 5-Series on the second-hand market. It has a great reputation for reliability, handling and build quality. Most buyers will prefer the optional automatic gearbox, especially with the larger engines, although the manual is more acceptable on the 520d.