2002 BMW 5-Series: Road Test
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2002 BMW 5-Series ▼
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- MSRP: $35,950 -$69,900
- Invoice: $32,875 -$63,770
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Our road test for the 2002 BMW 5-Series includes a full evaluation of the 2002 BMW 5-Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 BMW 5-Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 BMW 5-Series help you decide if a 2002 BMW 5-Series is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 6.2 |
Quick cars all, though price rises with performance. Test manual-shift 530i did 0-60 mph in 6.7 sec. An automatic 525 wagon showed surprising all-around verve. The potent 540s needed about 6.5 sec in last year's tests, but may be a little faster now. We clocked an M5 at just 5 sec.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 4.6 |
Test automatic-transmission 525i wagon averaged 17.4 mpg, a manual 530i 21.0. Last year's 540i sedan returned 15.9 with automatic, 19.3 with manual; a wagon got 18.7. Test M5 averaged 13.8. All require premium gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 7.2 |
Absorbent, unflustered in any model. M5 and manual 540s are firm but not teeth-rattling on bumpy surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 6.7 |
Despite 6-cyl models' moderate body lean in hard cornering, all 5s have responsive steering and assured, athletic moves. Standard antiskid system enhances stability, but traction still compromised on wet or slippery surfaces, especially with Sport Package tires. Braking exceptionally swift, stable, consistent.
QUIETNESS
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 6.8 |
Not Lexus-grade hushed, but minor tire roar on very coarse surfaces is the only annoyance.
CONTROLS
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 6.3 |
Mostly handy and intuitive. Combined audio/climate/trip-computer setup might stump Bill Gates. First-rate cabin materials and workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
Spacious; head room good even with sunroof. Longer cushions could improve otherwise supportive seats. Power seat and tilt/telescope steering wheel allow most drivers to find a comfortable long-haul posture.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Too narrow for three adults, but leg, knee room tight only with front seats fully aft. Again, more thigh support would add to already-good seat comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 4.2 |
Sedans have narrow but roomy trunks. Wagon volume good but not great, though superior to that of BMW's X5 SUVs. Split folding rear seats standard on wagons, optional on sedans.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7 | 3 | 5.1 |
For premium engineering and superior road manners, we recommend any 5-Series model you can afford. BMW's strong resale values help offset stiff sticker prices.
Total Score
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn, man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 67 | 67 | 66 | 59 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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