2013 BMW 5-series Expert Review

Vehicle Overview

There's a BMW 5 Series for every luxury buyer, no matter their needs. Whether consumers are after high-performance or high efficiency, the expansive 5 Series lineup may just have a model cut out for every buyer's particular needs. While the wagon model isn't offered in the U.S., the 5 Series comes in sedan and GT forms. The 5 Series GT is a large -- and somewhat expensive -- four-door hatchback that provides more interior space and cargo capacity than the regular 5 Series sedan.

The 2013 BMW 5 Series sedan is available in a variety of flavors that correspond with engine choice: 528i, 535i, 550i, ActiveHybrid 5, and the high-performance M5. The 528i is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 240 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. The BMW 535i gets a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine that produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft, while the new ActiveHybrid 5 gets the same engine paired to an electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery, with peak output rated at 335 hp and 300 lb-ft. For more power, the BMW 550i gets a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that cranks out 400 hp and 450 lb-ft. As with nearly all 5 Series models, rear-wheel drive is standard and "xDrive" all-wheel drive is optional. Depending on the model, power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. An automatic start/stop function shuts off the engine when idling to save fuel.

In a 2013 comparison test involving four six-cylinder midsize luxury sedans, the 535i finished second, ahead of the Audi A6 and Infiniti M37 S, but behind the new Lexus GS 350 F Sport. Although we noted the current-gen 5 Series felt more like a downsized 7 Series than an upsized 3 Series, there were still several qualities we liked about it: "The embodiment of what I think of when I think German. Very solid, substantial. Buttoned-down and refined, no-nonsense." The refined ride, however, may require keeping a close eye on the speedometer. "All that solidity equates to one hell of a nice, smooth ride. 80 mph feels more like 40 mph, and 90 mph feels like a totally responsible, safe cruising speed." While we did like the 5 Series, we didn't necessarily love it thanks to its heavier feel.