2003 BMW 5-Series: Road Test
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2003 BMW 5-Series ▼
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- MSRP: $37,600 -$70,400
- Invoice: $34,375 -$62,225
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Our road test for the 2003 BMW 5-Series includes a full evaluation of the 2003 BMW 5-Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 BMW 5-Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 BMW 5-Series help you decide if a 2003 BMW 5-Series is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 6.5 |
Quick cars all, and performance rises with price. Test manual-shift 530i did 0-60 mph in 6.7 sec. Test automatic-transmission 525 wagon showed surprising all-around verve. Potent 540s needed about 6.5 sec with automatic transmission, about 5.7 with manual in our tests. We clocked an M5 at just 5 sec 0-60.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 4.5 |
Test automatic-transmission 525i wagon averaged 17.4 mpg, a manual 530i 21.0. With automatic transmission, test 540i sedan averaged 15.9, a wagon 18.7. In mostly highway driving, test 540i 6-speed averaged 21.2 mpg. Test M5 averaged 13.8. All require premium gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 7.1 |
Absorbent, unflustered in any model. M5 and manual 540s are decidedly firm but not teeth-rattling on bumpy surfaces.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 6.7 |
Despite 6-cyl models' moderate body lean in fast 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 w/nav. sys., 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 w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 6.6 |
Mostly handy and intuitive, but combined audio/climate/trip-computer setup that's standard is difficult to fathom, while using the available navigation system is a confounding chore. First-rate cabin materials and workmanship.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.2 |
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, though some testers find steering-wheel rim slices into view of top portion of speedometer and tachometer.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 525iT, auto. | 530i, man. | 540i sdn w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
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 w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
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 w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 7 | 3 | 5.7 |
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 w/nav. sys., man. | M5 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 68 | 69 | 65 | 59 | 60.5 |
Total Score: 65
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