BMW 5-Series

The BMW 5-Series is a mid-size luxury sport sedan, wagon, and now hatchback that has evolved since the early 1970s into a very technology-focused premium performance sedan. The 5-Series is one of BMW's most successful models, and the automaker considers it to be the core model in its lineup. Most recent 5-Series models compete against the Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti M.

The 1997-2003 5-Series models, recognized as E39 by BMW and enthusiasts, is considered one of the best eras for the model, for those who appreciate a relatively simple but premium-feeling driver's car. BMW had made some major improvements in both interior appointments, driving dynamics, and quality/reliability going into this generation.

The 2004 BMW 5-Series (E60) was all-new, and this generation was a radical shift design-wise, incorporating a sleek, rounded front with swept-back headlamps, along with the so-called Bangle Butt—incorporating a downward-sweeping beltline—in back. This generation of 5-Series, called the E60 within BMW, failed to hit the mark with some longtime BMW fans. It's tough to wage a single criticism, but its swept-back exterior, smooth sheetmetal, and more formal, less driver-focused instrument panel never went over very well with Bimmer loyalists. Factor in an armada of new tech features and a more isolated driving experience, and the 5 didn't always feel like the well-honed sport sedan it once had.

For the first couple of years of the E60 5-Series' run, engines were carried over from the previous model, with a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter in-line six-cylinder engine in the 525i and a 225-hp 3.0-liter in the 530i. For 2006, the two models produced 215 hp and 255 hp, respectively, while a new 360-horsepower, 4.8-liter V-8 made its debut in the 550i, replacing the previous 4.4-liter in the 540i.

Overall, this last generation of 5-Series was seen as very tech-focused. Among the features available in the 5 during these years was a Night Vision system, Active Roll Stabilization, Active Steering, High-Beam Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and a heads-up display. To top it all off, the iDrive was judged by most as particularly frustrating here, though for 2010, the 5-Series was updated with the new fourth-generation iDrive system, which was much easier to navigate.

The 5-Series GranTurismo (GT), a model that offers a higher seating position, a much larger backseat, and a slightly taller fastback body style, was introduced for 2010. Although wagon models have been brought to the U.S. for some model years of the 5-Series, we're not expected to get one with the latest 5—even though it continues to be offered in other markets.

The current F10 5-Series that was introduced for 2011 is a return to form in some ways, to some of the styling cues abandoned from the E39, and with more accessible technology and a more direct driving feel. The 5-Series shares a number of components with the latest 7-Series model. As before, there's a wide range of models, including rear-wheel-drive 535i (300-hp turbocharged six) and 550i (440-hp twin-turbo V-8) variants, as well as all-wheel-drive xDrive models, with an entry 528i joining the lineup.

For the 2012 model year, BMW introduced a new base engine for the model line, in the 528i: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It makes 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque, and actually makes the 5-Series a bit quicker than with the previous six. It also allows fuel economy ratings of up to 34 mpg highway with the eight-speed automatic.

An all-new high-performance M5 model is due for the 2013 model year.