BMW 5-Series Specs and Price Reviews

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BMW 5-Series Specs and Price Reviews - The 2014 BMW 5-Series is available with engines that range from a turbocharged four-cylinder in the base model, to twin-turbo V8s in 550i and M5 models. Test drivers say that the base 528i offers ample power, and that the new turbodiesel BMW 535d feels potent and refined. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard on most trims, though a manual transmission is available on the 535i and M5 sedans. The EPA reports that the 528i gets 23/34 mpg city/highway, which is very good for the class, while the all-new diesel-powered 535d gets an even better EPA-estimated 26/38 mpg city/highway. Although some reviewers think the 2014 5-Series lacks the agility of some of its rivals, they still note that it has a comfortable, composed ride.

Many automotive journalists write that the 2014 BMW 5-Series’ interior has an attractive design, has high-quality materials and has front seats that some say are the most comfortable in the class. Standard features include leatherette upholstery, a moonroof, navigation, Bluetooth and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Leather seating, a rearview camera, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, forward collision warning and blind spot monitoring are optional. Reviewers think that the iDrive system is fairly easy to use, and they like the crisp graphics from its display screen. With the exception of hatchback Gran Turismo models, the 5-Series has less cargo space than many luxury large cars.

The diesels are most popular, and rightly so. We've yet to drive the entry-level 518d, but the 520d has 181bhp and is powerful enough. The 525d makes for even easier performance, while the six-cylinder units in the 530d and 535d turn the 5 Series into a diesel-engined performance car. Petrol choices include two 2.0-litre and two 3.0-litre units, plus there's a hybrid that combines the more powerful 3.0-litre petrol with a 54bhp electric motor. A couple of super-fast V8s complete the line-up.

On standard suspension the 5 Series doesn't ride or handle as well as it should do. However, you can add Variable Damper Control to four-cylinder models and Adaptive Drive to six-cylinder models, and these options transform the car. They aren't cheap but we think they're essential, because they make the ride more cosseting and the handling sharper. The range-topping M5 is a different matter; the bespoke suspension on this model provides sharp handling and a cosseting ride.

On engine, tyre and suspension noise are brilliantly suppressed, but you do notice a bit of wind noise coming from around the door mirrors. The eight-speed automatic gearbox is superb and has a bit of a split personality; stroke the accelerator pedal and the shifts are smooth, but jump on it hard and the shifts become clinically precise. The four-cylinder diesel engines are a bit gruff, but the six-cylinders are smooth and hushed.

BMW 5-Series Prices With Images

Saloon 518d SE 4dr : £29,830

Saloon 520d SE 4dr : £31,530