2006 BMW 5-Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

All-wheel drive, a wagon body style, and more-powerful engines are 2006 additions to BMW's midsize car. AWD versions get an "x" suffix to distinguish them from rear-drive models. The lineup consists of 525i and 525xi sedans, 530i sedans, and 530xi sedans and wagons. These models have inline 6-cyl engines. For '06, 525 models swap a 184-hp 2.5-liter for a 215-hp 3.0. The 3.0 in 530 models gains 30 hp, to 255. The 550i has a 360-hp 4.8-liter V8; it replaces the 545i, which had a 325-hp 4.4 V8. The high-performance M5 has a 500-hp 5.0 V10. Transmission choices include manuals and automatics, depending on model, plus a sequential manual transmission (SMT), which is essentially a manual transmission without a clutch pedal; it can also be set to shift like an automatic. Front side airbags and front and rear head-protecting tubular side airbags are standard. Rear torso side airbags are optional. All models have BMW's iDrive, which uses a console "joystick" knob to control entertainment, navigation, communication, and climate functions. Options include a sport suspension teamed with run-flat tires, and BMW's Active Steering, which quickens steering response. Also optional are head-up instrument display, navigation system, and adaptive cruise control.

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

New or significantly redesigned models include Lexus GS, Lincoln Zephyr, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.