2005 BMW 5-Series Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

Minor equipment shuffling marks 2005 for BMW's 5-Series sedans. Three models are offered. The 525i has a 184-hp 2.5-liter inline 6-cyl engine, the 530i a 225-hp 3.0 inline 6. The 545i has a 325-hp 4.4-liter V8. For '05, the 545i joins the other two models in offering a standard 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic is optional on all. Optional on the 530i and 545i is a 6-speed sequential manual transmission. SMT is essentially a clutchless manual operated via console lever or steering-wheel paddles; it can also be set to shift like an automatic.

Standard on all models are ABS, antiskid/traction control, front side airbags, and front and rear head-protecting tubular side airbags. Rear torso side airbags are optional. Also standard are BMW Assist emergency and concierge service and a tire-pressure monitor. All models have BMW's iDrive, which uses a console "joystick" knob to control entertainment, navigation, communication, and climate functions. The 525i has 16-inch wheels, the others 17s. Optional are a sport suspension teamed with run-flat tires, BMW's Active Roll Stabilization designed to counteract body lean, and BMW's Active Steering that electronically varies steering ratio and assist. Other options include head-up instrument display, satellite radio, and adaptive cruise control designed to maintain a set following distance. Also available are a navigation system, front and rear obstacle detection, heated front and rear seats, and xenon headlights.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.

Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, and the Lexus ES 330.

2005 BMW 5-Series Road Test

Pros	Cons

Steering/handling	Control layout

Ride	Fuel Economy (V8)

Build quality

Interior materials

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
6	6	6	8	6.6

Test automatic-transmission 525i did 7.7 sec 0-60 mph, manual 530i did 7.1, automatic 545i did 5.5. Neither 6-cyl engine has much low-rpm torque, but they keep pulling to provide adequate acceleration. V8 stronger at all speeds. Manual gearbox provides smooth action. Automatic works well, but can be a bit tardy on downshifts. No opportunity yet to test with SMT.

Fuel Economy

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
5	5	5	4	4.6

Test automatic-transmission 525i averaged 18.4 mpg, 530i manuals averaged 19.7-20, 545i automatic averaged 17.7. All engines require premium-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
8	8	7	7	6.9

Smooth, stable at any speed. Sport Package's stiffer suspension and 17- or 18-inch run-flat tires combine for stiffer feel that allows ruts to pound through, but ride never becomes harsh. 5-Series' ride/handling combination among world's best.

Steering/Handling/Braking

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
8	8	9	9	7.1

Well-balanced, agile, always composed. The sports sedan rivals strive to match. Active Steering a boon to low-speed maneuverability, but its activation point felt inconsistent to some testers. Little body lean in fast turns, even less with Sport Package's Active Roll Stabilization. Braking strong, stable, straight.

Quietness

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
8	8	7	7	6.8

Virtually no wind rush. Only real road noise comes with Sport Package tires, and they're hushed on most surfaces. Solid build quality for few creaks, rattles. Engines smooth, produce muted growl in aggressive acceleration.

Controls

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
4	4	4	4	6.7

Must interact with iDrive for anything other than simplest audio, climate adjustments. That complicates most functions and diverts driver attention. Control layout itself simple, convenient. Elegant interior decor benefits from top-notch materials.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
8	8	8	8	7.4

Good head, leg room for all but the very tall. Firm, supportive seats. Power seats, tilt/telescope steering wheel make it easy to find a comfortable driving position.

Room/Comfort (rear)

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
7	7	7	7	5.6

Fine head, leg, toe space. Taller riders may want more head clearance and will have leg room problems only with front seats all the way back. Long, firm cushions provide fine comfort.

Cargo Room

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
3	3	3	3	4

Good trunk room, though high liftover. Hinges covered to prevent crushing packages, but do gobble space. Needs more interior storage.

Value within Class

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.9

The 5-Series bristles with technology, but not all of it is beneficial. Active Roll Stabilization is truly useful and helps BMW maintain the 5-Series' world-class handling without compromising its admirable ride quality. But Active Steering can be a love-hate affair, and iDrive can be downright confounding. Furthermore, 6-cyl models feel underpowered for this class, and no 5-Series is bargain priced.

Total Score

525i, auto.	530i, auto.	530i w/Sport Pkg., man.	545i w/Sport Pkg., auto.	Class Average
63	63	62	63	61.6

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score		49
Average Score		61
High Score		72

2005 BMW 5-Series Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 02/03/2005

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

525i 4-door sedan, manual	$41,300	$37,765	$695

530i 4-door sedan, manual	$45,400	$41,495	$695

545i 4-door sedan, automatic	$55,800	$50,960	$695

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

525i

Powertrain

2.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, traction control.

Safety

Dual front airbags, front side airbags, side head-protection airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, daytime running lights.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Tire-pressure monitor, power steering, power tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, BMW Assist system, vinyl upholstery, 10-way power front seats, power front headrests, center console, cupholders, memory system (driver seat, steering wheel, mirrors), wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, outside-temperature display, trip computer, map lights, heated door lock, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, fog lights, 225/55VR16 tires, alloy wheels.

530i adds to 525i:

Powertrain

3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Front-seat power lumbar adjustment.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

225/50VR17 tires.

545i add to 530i:

Powertrain

4.4-liter V8 engine.

Safety

Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Leather upholstery, universal garage-door opener.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
525	$2,000	$1,820
530	$1,800	$1,640
Leather upholstery, front-seat power lumbar adjustment (525), automatic day/night rearview and outside mirrors, universal garage-door opener, additional interior lights.

Sport Pkg.
530, 545	$3,300	$3,005
525	$3,000	$2,730
Sport seats, satin chrome Shadowline exterior trim, active steering, Active Roll Stabilization, sport suspension, unique alloy wheels, 225/50R17 run-flat tires (525), 245/40WR18 run-flat tires (530, 545). 525, 530 require leather upholstery or Premium Pkg.

Premium Sound Pkg.
525i, 530i, 545i	$1,800	$1,640
Upgraded sound system, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Cold Weather Pkg.
525i, 530i, 545i	$750	$685
Heated front seats and steering wheel, heated headlight washers.

Powertrain
6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
525, 530	$1,275	$1,210
545	$0	$0


6-speed sequential-shift manual transmission (SMT)
530	$1,500	$1,425
545	$0	$0
Requires Sport Pkg.

Safety
Rear side airbags
525i, 530i, 545i	$385	$350


Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system
525, 530	$700	$635


Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
525i, 530i, 545i	$1,800	$1,640


Active steering
525i, 530i, 545i	$1,250	$1,140


Active cruise control
525i, 530i, 545i	$2,200	$2,000


Leather upholstery
525, 530	$1,450	$1,320
525/530 w/ventilated seats	$1,850	$1,685


Upgraded leather upholstery
545	$1,850	$1,685
Requires ventilated front seats

Comfort 20-way power front seats
530, 545	$1,200	$1,090
Includes active headrests, passenger-seat memory. 525, 530 require Premium Pkg. or leather upholstery.

Split folding rear seat
525i, 530i, 545i	$475	$430
Includes ski sack.

Ventilated front seats
525i, 530i, 545i	$1,025	$935
Includes heated front seats. 525, 530 requires Premium Pkg. or leather upholstery.

Heated rear seat
525i, 530i, 545i	$350	$320
Requires Cold Weather Pkg. 525, 530 require leather upholstery or Premium Pkg.

Unique wood interior trim
525i, 530i, 545i	$0	$0


Satellite radio
525i, 530i, 545i	$595	$540
NA w/navigation system.

Satellite radio prep
525i, 530i, 545i	$75	$70
NA w/navigation system.

Head-up instrument display
525i, 530i, 545i	$1,000	$910
Requires navigation system.

Power rear and manual rear-door sunshades
525i, 530i, 545i	$575	$525


Appearance and Miscellaneous
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights
525, 530	$800	$730

2005 BMW 5-Series Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	BMW 5-Series 4-door sedan

Wheelbase, in.	113.7

Overall Length, in.	189.6

Overall Width, in.	72.7

Overall Height, in.	58.0

Curb Weight, lbs.	3428

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	14.0

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	18.5

Seating Capacity	5

Front Head Room, in.	37.7

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	41.5

Rear Head Room, in.	37.9

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	36.0

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	dohc I6	dohc I6	dohc V8

Size, liters/cu. in.	2.5 /152	3.0 /182	4.4 /268

Horsepower @ rpm.	184 @ 6000	225 @ 5900	325 @ 6100

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	175 @ 3500	214 @ 3500	330 @ 3600

Availability	Standard	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

6-speed manual	19/28	20/30	17/25

6-speed automatic	19/28	19/29	18/26

6-speed SMT	--/--	20/29	16/24

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test

BMW 5-Series 4-door sedan

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	None/--	--

Bumper-to-bumper	4/50,000	--

Corrosion	12/unlimited	--

Free roadside assistance	4/50,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	4/50,000	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: Germany

Drivewheels: rear-wheel drive

< 2005 BMW 5-Series Photos

Also in the 2005 BMW 5-Series Review:

BMW 5-Series

BMW 5-Series Road Test

BMW 5-Series Prices & Equipment

BMW 5-Series Specs & Safety

BMW 5-Series Photos

BMW 5-Series Full Review

All BMW 5-Series

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