BMW 5-Series M5 (2011 - 2016) M5 4d DCT (2013/62) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I put too much faith in "expert" reviews.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

That it's very fast.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Absolutely not - it's a triumph of marketing over substance.

What are you likely to buy next?

A Lexus.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£74,000

When did you buy the car?

December 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

I leased the car from BMW Finance and got a good deal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Big, bulky and heavy - feels more like the old 7-series rather than the nimble E39 5-series. Standard brakes are hopelessly inadequate and inspire zero confidence. DCT box has a mind of its own and slips the clutch more than you ever would in a manual. Low speed running is lumpy and nipping into gaps is a nightmare - a choice between lumbering dinosaur and ferocious wheelspin. The nearest comparison I can think of is the old Rover 800 V6.

What's it like to park?

Similar to an oil tanker. Pillars are all in the wrong place and the bulbous shape makes it impossible to see the edges. I feel like a tugboat captain.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Only had it a month but already pining for my old manual gearbox - the DCT box is horrible!

What's most practical about your car?

4 doors.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Head-up display.