Advice on buying a new 5 series

[wsscott]

I need advice on buying a new 5 series

I've owned BMW's since 1974 and I still have my original 1974 Bavaria. I've got a 1994 530i with a replaced block, and 125,000 miles, and I'm looking for a replacement. I like the new body styles, and have always had manual transmissions, but am thinking about an automatic. Are there any recommendations or warnings about any of the new 5 series, as well as the issue of automatic transmissions, since I've never had one. I normally keep my cars about 8-10 years. Thanks.

 

[MrElussive]

There is not much to look out for in the new 5-Series, as they are really well-rounded sedans. The only real contraversial issue on the new 5-Series is the iDrive system. It is very different from how BMW has typically laid out their interiors, which could be good or bad for you. It would be a good idea to checkout a 5-Series at your local dealership and have the salesman explain a little bit of the system for you. It can be overwhelming for people, but if you just think about it like a computer, everything does make sense, and it is a system when once you get used to it, it's usually pretty great.
I would not be hesitant about an automatic transmission, either. They are so great nowadays, they typically deliver better gas mileage than manual transmissions in the real world because they keep engine revs down, and manage engine power extremely well. This also makes the car get up to speed much faster than the manual version, unless you are doing full throttle acceleration. I would only stick with manual if you just enjoy doing the work (I know I do)...otherwise, automatic is really easy to live with.
You might also want to do a bit of research on the SMG transmission, available on the 530 and 545 models.

 

[hosagod]

BMW automatic transmission is superior in my mind. Not to mention the available Sport and Steptronic modes. I think you will easily forget your manual and even begin to like automatics.

As far as the 5 series itself, looks GREAT, great car, you shouldn't expect any problems except for people that will keep staring... =)

I don't think there are any known issues at this point. Solid car.

Although, I would recommend you look at the 545i model instead of the 525i or 530i since it offers great performance and style, and I think it is the best model to go with when going with the 5 series.

 

[Frankie L]

i Drive System

Once picked up my 05 525i in October of 04 it took me a few days to really fiqure out the idrive. Once I went through all the screens I pretty much understood how to manipulate what I wanted to do. I set the radio to my stations, adjusted some of the different light configurations and thats was it. I barely ever touch it now since everything I wanted has been set.

I don't have a problem with it and have adjusted to it with no problem. If you can work your way through computers screens ie: Windows XP.... etc, you should have no problems. Hell, it also looks real good in the night with the color screens......LOL, anyway good luck

 

[stiffy]

Until I got my '06 525i home, the I-drive scared the crap out of me. I envisioned driving down the road constantly playing with it. Truth is, once you set it up, which takes about an hour, you almost enver have to touch it again. Us the programmable steering wheel buttons to scroll between AM/FM/CD etc. I often find myself at my destination having not 'accepted' the opening message. Don't let it worry you. The 5-series is a wonderful automobile, and the 525i is plenty quick enough especially with steptronic and sport mode. (CDA horsepower in the '06 525i is 215hp).

 

[arditarighi]

E60 is an Awsom Car!

I had second thoughts about iDrive once my car was delivered about two months ago, however after a month, it was hard for me to imagin any cars without it!

The only regret I have is not going for a manual transmission. I'v been driving my 99 528 5spd for past seven years, and I am getting way better gas mileage than my 530 (24.5 m/g in city vs. 19.1)

I personnaly vote for a manual transmission if you do not mind shifting gears in a traffic jam ... You get much more out of your car that way.

Good Luck,
Ardi