Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW 5-Series 2005 review

With a choice of 2 powerful diesel engines in the range, it is easy to forget the 5-Series is available with some impressive petrols, too.

The 5-Series has already proved itself to be an incredibly competent all-round saloon - but the addition of the hi-tech 3.0-litre engine, matched to the Sport package, shows the car in its best light. The dramatic styling, sharp chassis and impressive performance will make this new variant the first choice for many executive buyers.

Advertisement - Article continues below

With a choice of two powerful diesel engines in the range, it is easy to forget the BMW 5-Series is available with some impressive petrol powerplants, too. As well as the smooth 2.5-litre straight-six, the mid-sized executive saloon is now offered with the latest-generation 3.0-litre six-cylinder.

Already seen in the firm's 6-Series coup� and 3-Series saloon, this motor is constructed from aluminium to keep weight down. It uses Valvetronic technology to deliver a mix of strong performance and impressive economy.

From the outside, the 5-Series is the most successful interpretation of the current BMW design theme, especially with the M-Tech bodykit on our Sport test model. This comprises a small boot spoiler, deeper front bumper, side skirts and 18-inch alloy wheels, which make the most of the four-door's striking curves. It also gives the car the look of a mini-M5, even if it cannot match the flagship's dramatic performance.

Despite its more modest output, the 3.0-litre 5 feels easily quick enough when driven with enthusiasm. At low revs, the engine is virtually silent and very smooth, yet the tacho needle will happily shoot around to the red line, accompanied by a highly engaging six-cylinder exhaust note.

The slick six-speed manual gearbox makes getting the most out of the unit easy, whether you are high-speed cruising in top or trickling through traffic. Efficient brakes and a progressive clutch mean all the 5-Series' controls are positive and good to use, highlighting its credentials as a sporting saloon. This continues out on the road, as the ride is certainly on the firm side of comfortable. Sports suspension, combined with run-flat tyres, results in some bumps and surface imperfections being transmitted through the seat, but it never descends into feeling unpleasantly stiff.

The trade-off for this is superb road-holding, with minimal body roll in corners and plenty of grip. The steering is slightly numb, particularly around the dead-ahead position, which can mean a small degree of wander on motorways. Once into a bend, however, the set-up is accurate, making the car easy to place on the road. Inside, the sporty theme continues; the leather steering wheel, which is a smaller diameter than in the standard 5, and the matching gearknob display the M logo. Flashes of patterned silver trim further enhance the stylish cabin, which is finished well and laid out clearly. The simplified iDrive controller still takes some time to master, but otherwise the interior is comfortable and easy to use.

Combining the Sport package with the latest petrol engine brings the best out of the 5-Series, and only those seeking the ultimate super-saloon should consider a bigger-engined version.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

RRP £52,195Avg. savings £7,414 off RRP*Used from £11,990
Audi A6

Audi A6

RRP £39,640Avg. savings £7,388 off RRP*Used from £16,990
Mercedes C Class
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £2,773 off RRP*Used from £14,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Toyota GR Corolla hot hatch is on the way to the UK
Toyota GR Corolla - front cornering

Toyota GR Corolla hot hatch is on the way to the UK

The success of the GR Yaris has persuaded Toyota that there’s room in its UK range for the high performance Corolla
News
19 Jun 2025
New Audi A3 e-tron proves the brand isn’t turning its back on smaller cars
Render of the Audi A3 e-tron - front static

New Audi A3 e-tron proves the brand isn’t turning its back on smaller cars

Audi has confirmed it’s bringing a posh all-electric take on the MEB platform to market, and in good time
News
18 Jun 2025
Groundbreaking Nissan solid-state EV batteries due on sale by 2028
Nissan Leaf - front cornering

Groundbreaking Nissan solid-state EV batteries due on sale by 2028

The industry is in a race to bring solid-state to the market, and Nissan isn’t too far behind the leaders
News
17 Jun 2025