Acceleration

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
6	8	8	7

We've had no opportunity yet to test the 535 or M5. Despite a smallish engine for the class, the 528i has sufficient power for most needs, even with the automatic transmission. The 550i is potent at all speeds; it did 5.5 seconds 0-60 mph with automatic transmission in our test. The conventional automatic works well but can be tardy on downshifts. Manual transmissions shift smoothly. We've not evaluated any 5-Series with the automated manual transmission.

Fuel Economy

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
5	5	5	4.6

Test 528i sedans with automatic transmission averaged 20.3 mpg. A 550i with manual averaged 19.1 mpg. All models require premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
8	6	6	6.3

The 5-Series' ride/handling combination is among the world's best. The base suspension is surprisingly supple over bumps. Even with the Sport Package's stiffer suspension and lower-profile tires the ride never becomes harsh, though some ruts register with authority.

Steering/Handling/Braking

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
8	9	9	7.1

Well-balanced, agile, and always composed, these are the sport sedans rivals strive to match. The base suspension exhibits little body lean in fast turns; with the Sport Package's Active Roll Stabilization, cornering is flatter still. The optional Active Steering is a boon to low-speed maneuverability, but its activation point feels inconsistent to some testers. Braking is strong, stable, and straight.

Quietness

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
8	7	7	7

Wind rush is minimal at highway speeds. Road noise is noticed only with the Sport Package's high-performance tires, and they're fairly hushed on most surfaces. Engines are smooth, producing only a muted growl during aggressive acceleration.

Controls

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
4	4	4	6.1

The control layout itself is fairly simple and convenient, but the driver must interact with iDrive for anything other than simple audio and climate adjustments. That complicates most functions and diverts the driver's attention from the road.

Details

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
8	8	8	7.4

Elegant interior decor benefits from top-notch materials. Build quality is generally impressive, though one test 528i suffered some "orange peel" surface texture in its paint.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
8	8	8	7.3

Good headroom and legroom on firm, supportive seats. The power seats and tilt and telescopic steering wheel make it easy to find a comfortable driving position. Some taller testers found the speedometer to be partially obscured by the steering wheel, even at the wheel's highest setting. Visibility is only average over the shoulder and to the rear.

Room/Comfort (rear)

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
6	6	6	5.2

Seats are comfortable and supportive. Headroom is adequate for average adults, but legroom and foot space can grow tight with the front seats far back and lowered.

Cargo Room

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
3	3	3	4.2

Though nicely finished, the trunk isn't very wide or deep, and the lid hinges--though covered--intrude into the cargo space. Interior storage is disappointingly meager.

Value within Class

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
6	6	6	6.2

The 5-Series bristles with technology, but not all of it is beneficial. Active Steering is a love/hate affair, and the iDrive control center can be downright confounding. But Active Roll Stabilization is truly useful and helps BMW maintain the 5-Series' world-class handling without compromising its admirable ride quality.

Total Score

528i, automatic	550i w/Sport Pkg., manual	550i w/Sport Pkg., automatic	Class Average
70	70	70	68.4

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score		56
Average Score		68
High Score		78