2012 BMW 5-Series vs. Its Competition

2012 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo 4-door Sedan 550i Gran Turismo RWD Angular Front Exterior View

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Feb 23, 2012

The Jaguar XF and Infiniti M are the most direct competitors to the BMW 5-Series.

Both models are all-new for 2011.

The new M—offered in M37 and M56 models—has improved handling and real backseat room this time around, plus a gorgeous interior.

The Jaguar XF offers a near-ideal mix of capable handling and performance, combined with a smart, classy feel and excellent interior comfort.

On the other hand, the current Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a thoroughly upgraded interior and quicker steering; it is still offered in a hot E63 AMG version.

The new Audi A6 that was introduced this past year is a more serious sport sedan than ever, with a stunning interior that mirrors that of the A7 fastback.

And Lexus is about to introduce, for 2013, an all-new version of the GS, with even more of an emphasis on performance and technology than before.

2012 BMW 5-Series Get FREE Price Quote	2013 Lexus GS 350 Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Audi A6 Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Jaguar XF Get FREE Price Quote	2012 Mercedes-Benz E Class Get FREE Price Quote
Quick Specs
Meta Rating
8.6 The 2012 BMW 5-Series appears somewhat conservative on the outside, but it packs an armada of advanced-tech firepower, and new fuel-efficient engines, without interrupting its sport-sedan mission.	8.2 The 2013 Lexus GS 350 gains a little confidence and connectivity, while its competition gains some weight and complexity.	8.4 It's the same V-6 blast to drive as the far more sexy A7, which makes the 2012 Audi A6 a little irrelevant for those not fixated on five seats or four cylinders.	8.4 Scorching acceleration, nimble handling, and true luxury-car refinement complement style and fashion to swoon over in the 2012 Jaguar XF; backseat space remains its only reality check.	8.2 The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E Class models have sharper driving appeal than in the past, while also returning to the classy interior appointments and vault-like construction that have made them longtime luxury benchmarks.
MSRP From
$46,900	$47,250	$41,700	$53,000	$49,800
Gas Mileage
15 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy	19 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy	15 MPG City / 23 MPG Hwy	15 MPG City / 32 MPG Hwy
Engine
Turbocharged Gas I4	Gas V6	Turbocharged Gas I4	Gas V8	Gas V6
EPA Class
Mid-Size	Mid-Size	Midsize Cars	Midsize Car	Subcompact Cars
Style Name
4dr Sedan 528i RWD	4dr Sedan RWD	4dr Sedan FrontTrak 2.0T Premium	4dr Sedan	2dr Coupe E350 RWD
Drivetrain
Rear Wheel Drive	Rear Wheel Drive	Front Wheel Drive	Rear Wheel Drive	Rear Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity
5	5	5	5	4
Passenger Doors
4	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Body Style
4dr Sedan	Sedan	Sedan	4 Door Sedan	Coupe
Transmission
Automatic w/Manual Shift	Automatic w/Manual Shift	Continuously Variable Ratio	Automatic w/Manual Shift	Automatic