BMW 5 Series
Encyclopedia
The BMW 5 Series is a mid-size
/ executive car
manufactured by BMW
since 1972. The car, now in its sixth generation, is sold in sedan and touring
body styles.
It is BMW's second best selling model after the 3-Series
but represents about 50% of the company's profits.
On January 29, 2008, the 5 millionth 5 Series was manufactured, a 530d Saloon in Carbon Black Metallic.
The 5 Series got its name by being the fifth of the "new series" cars after the V-8 and Isetta era. The preceding models were the 700, the "New Class"
, the "New Six" 2500/2800/Bavaria
and the CS. The 5 Series was intended to replace the older New Six sedans.
The first generation's body was styled by Marcello Gandini
, based on the Bertone 1970 BMW Garmisch 2002ti Geneva show car. Gandini also did the Fiat 132 and Alfa Romeo Alfetta
, two other cars that have a similar design.
There have been six generations of the 5 Series to date. To differentiate between them, they are referred to by their unique chassis numbers (EXX or FXX).
The 5 Series began the BMW tradition of being named with a three-digit number. The first digit (5 in this case) represents the model, and the following two digits (usually) represent the size of the engine in decilitres, which is the main distinguishing difference. Additional letters or words may be added to the end of the three-digit number to define the fuel type (petrol or diesel), engine or transmission details, and the body style. The 'i' originally stood for (fuel) 'injection'.
The BMW E12
was the first 5 Series BMW made. The following models were produced in this series:
The 1.8 L engines and the 2.0 L fuel injected engines were exclusive to Germany
until the 1980s. The South African models were 525i, 528i and 530i.
The BMW E28
was the second BMW 5 Series, a stylistic evolution of the E12. Visible changes to this model included revised headlights, thicker rubber bumper surrounds and large rectangular taillights. The shape was more box-shaped than rounded at the rear.
The following models were sold in Europe:
The following models were sold in North America:
The third generation 5 Series earned awards for safety and reliability and was considered one of the most elegant shapes of its time.
Models:
The BMW E39
was one of BMW's most successful cars, with several different models. These included:
The BMW M57 type Engine is a straight-6 Diesel produced from 1998. It won the "2.5-3 L" category of the International Engine of the Year award for 1999 through 2002. The updated twin-turbocharger version won that same award in 2005.
The 2.5 L (2497 cc/152 in³) M57D25 was the smallest member of the family. It produced 120 kW (161 hp) at 4000 rpm and 350 N·m (258 lb·ft) at 2000-2500 rpm with a 4750 rpm redline. Application: 525D
In US:
The E39 has been widely praised in all aspects, and it perennially earned a place on Car and Driver's 10Best list. The E39 BMW 5-series was considered the benchmark of its class and Consumer Reports
gave the 2001 530i its highest car rating ever. The diesel engines available in the European models provide great torque and smoothness with better economy. The very first E39 BMW 5 Series rolled off the assembly line in February, 1995.
The M5 has been called "the ultimate in discreet speed" with 369 lbf·ft (500 N·m) of torque and a 0–60 mph time of 4.8 s, and was praised for its excellent mix of handling and comfort. The only downside was its smallish cabin and tiny trunk space of 11.1 ft³ (314 L).
The BMW E60
was the fifth generation of the 5 Series. Its styling (designed by late BMW designer Davide Arcangeli) and many of its advanced features received mixed reviews. It is noted for its non-traditional BMW design, the most controversial being the "Bangle butt"
rear-end, though since then critics have said that the design has aged well as of 2010. Despite criticism over its exterior design and interior electronics, this became the best-selling 5 Series. Considered the heart of the BMW brand, it generated 20 percent of the company’s profits and accounted for between 25 and 30 percent of sales in the key U.S. market (but just 2 percent in Canada). Since 2005, the 5 Series has been the segment leader, out-selling the Mercedes-Benz E-Class
among others.
The E60/61 represented a significant step forward in technology over the previous generation. The controversial iDrive
interface featured electronic control over all aspects of the vehicle from the suspension, to brightness of interior lights, to different temperature zones within the cabin. The vehicle was also equipped with an array of safety features from adaptive headlamps to Hill start assist, and was also equipped with a Trailer Stability Program
to aid when towing a large trailer or caravan. Other major options included Active Cruise Control and Active Steering
. Two new features became available in September 2005, BMW Night Vision and High-Beam Assist.
xDrive
Four-wheel drive
system became an option on the 5 Series for the first time since the E34 in 1996, available on six-cylinder models. This system was shared with the 3-Series
, X3
and X5
. 2006-2008 models were badged as the 525xi, 528xi, 530xi and 535xi. For the 2009 model year and onwards, they have been badged as the 528i xDrive and 535i xDrive.
The BMW 5-Series was available in both sedan (E60) and wagon (E61) versions and had the following models:
In US:
2008, BMW added a slightly redesigned interior, subtle exterior details, and new motor options. Updates included new front and rear bumpers, re-styled front headlights and re-styled LED taillights. A refreshed interior was also presented featuring the new shifter from the new X5, and the addition of the new BMW electronic throttle system.
The 2008 model of the 520i had a new engine: a 2.0 litres 4 cylinders instead of the R6 2.2 litres. High compression and new piezo direct injection technology
kept the performance on 170 bhp / 210 newton metre, but bettered the fuel economy. A Lane Departure Warning System
based on core Mobileye
technology was added and the Active Cruise Control system added a "Stop and Go" feature which can bring the vehicle to a stop automatically and resume again. BMW also launched a new M5 Touring into their range, but this was not introduced in the USA
.
The sixth generation of the 5-Series (BMW F10) made its debut on 23 November 2009 as a 2010 model. The platform is based on the F01 7 Series; improvements include a front dual ball joint
short-long arm suspension
(replacing the MacPherson strut
suspensions BMW previously used), and a rear multilink suspension.
For the powertrain, there is a ZF 8-speed
automatic transmission
, the single turbo inline-6 N55
, and the twin-turbo V8 N63
.
It is designed by P.H. McFlagger, with a more prominent upright split kidney grille and the absence of the "Bangle butt"
rear-end styling of its E60 predecessor. Externally, the car is a more traditional BMWesque design; a far more sober effort after the highly controversial E60. Although it bears some resemblance to the E60 with the wide kidney grilles and a very pronounced Hofmeister kink
, the creases in the bonnet and just underneath the door are clearly related to the E39 and other earlier 5 series models. Inside marks the return of the centre console being clearly angled towards the driver, another marked change from its immediate predecessor which was noted for its non traditional BMW design. However, opinion is divided, as a reviewer described the F10 as too bland and conservative, compared to the E60 predecessor, as well as having too much of a resemblance to the E90 3-Series.
topping the range in the 550i, followed by a trio of straight 6 petrols. Despite many rumours to the contrary, BMW's second best selling model after the 3 series did not use any 4 cylinder petrol engines for the 2011 model year. Instead, BMW retained a trio of straight six engines, completing the petrol engine range. The 535i has the 306 bhp 295 lbft BMW N55
engine which made its debut in the F07 5 Series GT, and will shortly find its way into the facelifted BMW E92 and E93. The magnesium block naturally aspirated direct injection straight 6 continues in Europe at least; this engine is the BMW N53
; 3.0 litres, 258 bhp for the 528i, and 3.0 litres and 204 bhp for the 523i, same outputs as the BMW E89
Z4 sDrive23i.
The 4 petrol engines are complemented by a trio of diesel engines. Again, despite rumours to the contrary, BMW has decided to only offer one 4 cylinder engine here: the 520d. This means that the 525d continues to offer the superior mechanical refinement of a straight six as opposed to the rumoured 523d with 4 cylinders. The 525d is joined by a 530d; both models use the same BMW N57
3.0 litre engine, the 525d has 204 bhp and 450 newton metre, the 530d with 245 bhp and 540 newton metre of torque. Expect hybrid models later, as well as more powerful straight 6 diesel to replace the award winning 535d.
The 2012 BMW 528i will swap its Valvetronic N52B30 3.0 litre 240 bhp (179 kW; 243 PS) inline-6 for the new N20 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 which will produce 240 hp (179 kW) at 5000 rpm and 260 lb·ft (350 N·m) of torque from 1250 rpm, and this makes the entire North American 5 Series lineup powered by turbocharged gasoline engines. xDrive will be optional with the 2012 528i.[12][13] Powertrain updates are officialy introduced on August 16, 2011 on BMW site. 520i/528i gets N20 inline-4 turbo, 530i remains only naturally aspirated powered 5 series with 3 litre BMW N53 engine. 535i/550i remains the same[14]. Diesel models are also updated, 520d gets Efficient Dynamics Edition while 525d produce 218 hp. 530d has 13 hp more which results in 258 hp and 535d gets engine from 640d model which results in 313 hp. xDrive is available with 528i, 535i, 550i, 525d, 530d and 535d models.
A long-wheelbase version was released by Brilliance-BMW in China on August 5, 2010, with three engine options—all having 6 cylinders: 2.5L, 3.0L, and Turbo-3.0L.
(BMW F07), which is considered a coupé-like crossover vehicle or station wagon - a blend of different typical body styles. BMW advertises the new 5 Series GT as "The First of its Kind". The GT is taller than other fastback competitors.
The F07 Gran Turismo (designed by Christopher Weil) shares the same F01 7 Series-derived platform, powertrain, mechanical package, and dashboard with the F10. However the F07's fascia
has different headlights and bumper, with a larger split-kidney grille similar to that of the F01 7 Series. The F07 also has a taller height resulting in a higher center of gravity, its longer length allows for more rear legroom, the rear passenger accommodation has optional "Executive" bucket seats for two instead of the three-seat bench, and it weights 400 pounds heavier compared to the F10. The F07 also features frame-less doors and a double-pane liftgate truck.
The 5 Series GT is powered by a single-turbo diesel I6 producing 245 PS, by a single-turbo I6 producing 306 PS and a twin-turbo V8 producing 408 PS; the latter will give the car a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds. This is the first BMW to receive the new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, along with a new Brake Energy Regeneration system.
BMW has suggested that the new 5 Series GT would replace the 5 Series Touring (wagon) in their North American lineup, due to slow sales of the E61 wagon in the United States, with only 400 sold in 2009. In that country, more BMW M5
and Z8
s have been sold than the 535i and 540i wagons, respectively. BMW is targeting annual sales of 4000 to 8000 5 Series GTs. However, the GT concept has befuddled many of BMW owners and potential buyers in the United States, leaving many of them switching to Mercedes-Benz E-Class station wagons. BMW North America regretted its decision to substitute the GT for the 5-Series station wagon.
The F07 was released in the fourth quarter of 2009 as a 2010 model, before the rest of the next-generation 5 Series lineup. In Canada and the United States, for first half of 2010, the Gran Turismo was sold alongside the outgoing E60 5 Series, until the rollout of the F10 in June 2010 for the 2011 model year.
concept
version of the BMW 5 series, introduced as BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid, was unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The use of BMW ActiveHybrid technology allows the hybrid electric
version to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions by more than 10%. According to BMW, the production version is scheduled to be released in 2011.
magazine's annual Ten Best
list for six years straight, from its introduction in 1997 through 2002. It was also Motor Trend
s Import Car of the Year
for 1997 and What Car?
Executive Car of the Year 1997 through 2002. The E60 was named "Best New Luxury / Prestige Car" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year
awards. Active Seat continuous passive motion seating comfort technology recognized as one of the Best Inventions of 1998 by Popular Science magazine. Consumer Reports
found the E39 5 series their best car tested in 2001-2002. The JB car pages have awarded the BMW 5-Series a best-in-class 4 1/2 star rating.
Mid-size car
A mid-size car is the North American/Australian standard for an automobile with a size equal to or greater than that of a compact...
/ executive car
Executive car
Executive car is a British term that refers to a car's size and is used to describe an automobile larger than a large family car. In official use, the term is adopted by EuroNCAP, a European organisation founded to test car safety.- History :...
manufactured by BMW
BMW
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG is a German automobile, motorcycle and engine manufacturing company founded in 1916. It also owns and produces the Mini marque, and is the parent company of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. BMW produces motorcycles under BMW Motorrad and Husqvarna brands...
since 1972. The car, now in its sixth generation, is sold in sedan and touring
Station wagon
A station wagon is a body style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door , instead of a trunk lid...
body styles.
It is BMW's second best selling model after the 3-Series
BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. Successor to the BMW New Class, it has been produced in five different generations and in no less than five different body styles. It is BMW's best-selling model, accounting for around 30% of the...
but represents about 50% of the company's profits.
On January 29, 2008, the 5 millionth 5 Series was manufactured, a 530d Saloon in Carbon Black Metallic.
History
BMW New Class
The BMW New Class was a line of compact sedans and coupes produced by German automaker BMW starting with the 1962 1500 and continuing through the last 2002s in 1977....
, the "New Six" 2500/2800/Bavaria
BMW New Six
The BMW New Six is a line of six-cylinder luxury cars produced by the German automaker BMW from 1968 to 1977. The series was introduced as a response to the Mercedes-Benz-dominated large luxury car class and was very important in establishing BMW's reputation as a maker of sporting, luxury sedans....
and the CS. The 5 Series was intended to replace the older New Six sedans.
The first generation's body was styled by Marcello Gandini
Marcello Gandini
Marcello Gandini is an Italian car designer, widely known for his work with the automotive design house Gruppo Bertone, notably his design of the Lamborghini Countach. Together with Giorgetto Giugiaro and Leonardo Fioravanti, Gandini forms a noted triumvirate of Italian car designers, all born in...
, based on the Bertone 1970 BMW Garmisch 2002ti Geneva show car. Gandini also did the Fiat 132 and Alfa Romeo Alfetta
Alfa Romeo Alfetta
Alfa Romeo GTV redirects here. For 916 series GTV see Alfa Romeo GTV & SpiderThe Alfa Romeo Alfetta is an Italian rear-wheel drive executive saloon car and fastback coupé produced from 1972 until 1987 by Alfa Romeo...
, two other cars that have a similar design.
There have been six generations of the 5 Series to date. To differentiate between them, they are referred to by their unique chassis numbers (EXX or FXX).
The 5 Series began the BMW tradition of being named with a three-digit number. The first digit (5 in this case) represents the model, and the following two digits (usually) represent the size of the engine in decilitres, which is the main distinguishing difference. Additional letters or words may be added to the end of the three-digit number to define the fuel type (petrol or diesel), engine or transmission details, and the body style. The 'i' originally stood for (fuel) 'injection'.
E12 (1972-1981)
- See also BMW E12BMW E12The BMW E12 BMW 5-Series was made between 1972 and 1981. The E12 was the first series to bear the 5 Series name: the '5' denoting BMW's fifth 'New Class' platform. Designed as a replacement for the popular BMW New Class mid-size sedan, the E12 5-Series models were smaller than the large BMW E3...
for more information
The BMW E12
BMW E12
The BMW E12 BMW 5-Series was made between 1972 and 1981. The E12 was the first series to bear the 5 Series name: the '5' denoting BMW's fifth 'New Class' platform. Designed as a replacement for the popular BMW New Class mid-size sedan, the E12 5-Series models were smaller than the large BMW E3...
was the first 5 Series BMW made. The following models were produced in this series:
- Non-US
- 1974 518 - 1.8 L M118 I4
- 1976 518 - 1.8 L M42 I4
- 1980 518 - 1.8 L M10B18 I4
- 1972 520 - 2.0 L M17 I4, 115 hp
- 1972 520i - 2.0 L M64 fuel injectedFuel injectionFuel injection is a system for admitting fuel into an internal combustion engine. It has become the primary fuel delivery system used in automotive petrol engines, having almost completely replaced carburetors in the late 1980s....
I4, 125 hp - 1977 520 - 2.0 L M20B20 I6 122 hp
- 1973 525 - 2.5 L I6
- 1975 528i - 2.8 L I6
- 1975 530i - 3.0 L I6, 176 hp
- 1976 530 Motorsport Limited Edition - 3.0 L I6, 200 hp
- 1979 M535i - 3.5 L I6, 218 hp
- US
- 1975-1978 530i - 3.0 L I6, 176 hp
- 1979-1981 528i - 2.8 L I6, 169 hp
The 1.8 L engines and the 2.0 L fuel injected engines were exclusive to Germany
Germany
Germany , officially the Federal Republic of Germany , is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate...
until the 1980s. The South African models were 525i, 528i and 530i.
E28 (1982-1988)
- See also BMW E28BMW E28The BMW E28 BMW 5-Series was made between 1981 and 1988. It replaced the BMW E12 in 1981 and was replaced by the BMW E34 in 1989.E28 Production started in July 1981 and ended in December 1987...
for more information
The BMW E28
BMW E28
The BMW E28 BMW 5-Series was made between 1981 and 1988. It replaced the BMW E12 in 1981 and was replaced by the BMW E34 in 1989.E28 Production started in July 1981 and ended in December 1987...
was the second BMW 5 Series, a stylistic evolution of the E12. Visible changes to this model included revised headlights, thicker rubber bumper surrounds and large rectangular taillights. The shape was more box-shaped than rounded at the rear.
The following models were sold in Europe:
- 518/518i- 1.8 L M10B18
- 520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
- 524d - 2.4 L M21BMW M21The BMW M21 was a 2.4 L diesel straight-6 engine.It was introduced in 1983 with the BMW M20 design as its basis. It was available with a turbocharger....
dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase... - 524td - 2.4 L M21BMW M21The BMW M21 was a 2.4 L diesel straight-6 engine.It was introduced in 1983 with the BMW M20 design as its basis. It was available with a turbocharger....
turbodieselTurbodieselTurbodiesel refers to any diesel engine with a turbocharger. Turbocharging is the norm rather than the exception in modern car and truck diesel engines...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase... - 525i - 2.5 L M30B25 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
- 525e - 2.7 L M20B27 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
- 528i - 2.8 L M30B28 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
first 177 hp 1978 after 1979 184 hp - 530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
- 535i/M535i - 3.4 L M30B34 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
- M5 - M88BMW M88The BMW M88/3 is an in line 6 cylinder piston engine. It was based on the M88/1 that was used in the BMW M1's street version, with double overhead cam and four valves per cylinder. The M88/1 was in turn based on the M49 engine which was used in the BMW 3.0CSi...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 286 PS
- High performance 5 Series - 24-valve DOHC, I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, six throttle bodies, Bosch Motronic integrated fuel injection. At its launch in 1984, the European specification E28 M5 was the fastest production sedan in the world.
The following models were sold in North America:
- 524td - 2.4 L M21BMW M21The BMW M21 was a 2.4 L diesel straight-6 engine.It was introduced in 1983 with the BMW M20 design as its basis. It was available with a turbocharger....
turbodieselTurbodieselTurbodiesel refers to any diesel engine with a turbocharger. Turbocharging is the norm rather than the exception in modern car and truck diesel engines...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 114 hp - 528e - 2.7 L M20B27BMW M20The M20 is an inline-6 piston engine by BMW.Initially designated M60, the 12-valve, belt driven SOHC design was introduced in the 1977 BMW 520/6 and 320/6 as an entirely new design. With displacements ranging from 2.0 to 2.7 liters, it was the "little brother" to the larger BMW M30 engine. It had ...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 121 hp
- Designed for fuel efficiency
- 533i - 3.2 L M30B33 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 182 hp
- 533i - 3.2 L M30B33 I6
- High revving power
- 535i - 3.4 L M30B34 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 182 hp
- 535i - 3.4 L M30B34 I6
- A 533i bored to produce more torque and equal power
- 535is - 3.4 L M30B34 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 182 hp
- 535is - 3.4 L M30B34 I6
- A 535i with a sport suspension and interior modifications
- M5 - 3.4 L S38B35 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 256 hp
- M5 - 3.4 L S38B35 I6
- High performance 5 Series - 24 valve DOHC, I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, six throttle bodies, Bosch Motronic integrated fuel injection, available only in black in the US.
E34 (1988-1996)
- See also BMW E34BMW E34The BMW E34 is the version of the BMW 5 Series automobile built from February 1988 to 1995 with the Touring model ending June 1996. It replaced the BMW E28 in 1988 and was replaced by the E39 in 1996....
for more information
The third generation 5 Series earned awards for safety and reliability and was considered one of the most elegant shapes of its time.
Models:
- Non-US
- 1989–1994 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M40B18 I4 115 PS
- 1994–1996 BMW 518i - 1.8 L M43B18 I4 115 PS
- 1995–1996 BMW 518g (CNG)Compressed natural gasCompressed natural gas is a fossil fuel substitute for gasoline , diesel, or propane/LPG. Although its combustion does produce greenhouse gases, it is a more environmentally clean alternative to those fuels, and it is much safer than other fuels in the event of a spill...
Touring - 1.8 L M43B18 I4 - 1987–1990 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M20B20 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
122 PS - 1987–1990 BMW 520i ECE - 2.0 L M20B20 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
129 PS higher compression than non ECE - 1990–1996 BMW 520i - 2.0 L M50B20 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
150 PS - 1988-1991 BMW 524td - 2.4 L M21BMW M21The BMW M21 was a 2.4 L diesel straight-6 engine.It was introduced in 1983 with the BMW M20 design as its basis. It was available with a turbocharger....
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
diesel - 1993-1995 BMW 525td - 2.5 L M51D25 ULBMW M51The BMW M51 is a straight-6 Diesel engine produced from July 1991 through February 2000.The "td" stands for "turbodiesel" while "tds" refers to "intercooled turbodiesel".Applications:* 1991-1996 E36 325td * 1996-1998 E36 325td...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
115 PS diesel - 1991-1995 BMW 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25 OLBMW M51The BMW M51 is a straight-6 Diesel engine produced from July 1991 through February 2000.The "td" stands for "turbodiesel" while "tds" refers to "intercooled turbodiesel".Applications:* 1991-1996 E36 325td * 1996-1998 E36 325td...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
143 PS diesel - 1987–1990 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M20B25 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
170 PS - 1990–1996 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M50B25 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
192 PS - 1990–1996 BMW 525iX - 2.5 L M50B25 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
192 PS Very rare - 1988–1990 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M30B30 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
184 PS - 1992–1996 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M60B30 V8V8 engineA V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
218 PS - 1987–1993 BMW 535i - 3.4 L M30B35 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
211 PS - 1992–1996 BMW 540i - 4.0 L M60B40 V8V8 engineA V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
286 PS - 1990–1993 BMW M5 - 3.6 L S38B36 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 315 PS - 1994–1996 BMW M5 - 3.8 L S38B38 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 340 PS
- US
- 1989–1990 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M20B25 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 168 hp - 1989–1993 BMW 535i - 3.4 L M30B35 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 208 hp - 1991–1993 BMW M5BMW M5The first BMW M5, based on the E28 5 Series, made its debut at Amsterdam Motor Show in February 1984. It was the product of demand for an automobile with the carrying capacity of a saloon , but the overall performance of a sports car. It utilized the 535i chassis and an evolution of the engine from...
- 3.6 L S38B36 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 310 hp - 1991–1995 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M50B25 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 189 hp - 1994–1995 BMW 530i - 3.0 L M60B30 V8V8 engineA V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
, 215 hp - 1994–1995 BMW 540i - 4.0 L M60B40 V8V8 engineA V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
, 282 hp
- 1989–1990 BMW 525i - 2.5 L M20B25 I6
E39 (1997-2003)
- See also BMW E39BMW E39The BMW E39 is the BMW 5 Series made between 1995 and 2003. The E39 was the successor of the BMW E34 in 1995, and itself was replaced by the E60 platform in 2003. Sales to Germany and the United Kingdom began in 1995, and by 1996 sales to the rest of the world had commenced. A mid-generational...
for more information
The BMW E39
BMW E39
The BMW E39 is the BMW 5 Series made between 1995 and 2003. The E39 was the successor of the BMW E34 in 1995, and itself was replaced by the E60 platform in 2003. Sales to Germany and the United Kingdom began in 1995, and by 1996 sales to the rest of the world had commenced. A mid-generational...
was one of BMW's most successful cars, with several different models. These included:
- 1996–2000 520i - 2.0 L M52B20 I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 110 kW - 2000–2003 520i - 2.2 L M54B22 I6, 125 kW
- 1996–2000 523i - 2.5 L M52B25 I6, 125 kW
- 2000–2003 525i - 2.5 L M54B25 I6, 141 kW
- 1996–1999 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 I6, 144 kW
- 1999–2000 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 TU I6, 144 kW
- 2000–2003 530i - 3.0 L M54B30 I6, 172 kW
- 1996–2003 535i - 3.5 L M62B35 V8V8 engineA V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
, 183 kW - 1996–1998 540i - 4.4 L M62B44 V8, 213 kW
- 1998–2003 540i - 4.4 L M62TUB44 V8, 216 kW
- 1998–2003 M5BMW M5The first BMW M5, based on the E28 5 Series, made its debut at Amsterdam Motor Show in February 1984. It was the product of demand for an automobile with the carrying capacity of a saloon , but the overall performance of a sports car. It utilized the 535i chassis and an evolution of the engine from...
- 4.9 L S62 V8, 298 kW - 2000-2003 520d - 2.0 L M47D20 dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I4 100 kW - 2000-2003 525d - 2.5 L M57D25 dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
120 kW - 1997-2000 525td - 2.5 L M51D25TU ULBMW M51The BMW M51 is a straight-6 Diesel engine produced from July 1991 through February 2000.The "td" stands for "turbodiesel" while "tds" refers to "intercooled turbodiesel".Applications:* 1991-1996 E36 325td * 1996-1998 E36 325td...
dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
85& kW - 1996-2000 525tds - 2.5 L M51D25TU OLBMW M51The BMW M51 is a straight-6 Diesel engine produced from July 1991 through February 2000.The "td" stands for "turbodiesel" while "tds" refers to "intercooled turbodiesel".Applications:* 1991-1996 E36 325td * 1996-1998 E36 325td...
dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
105 kW - 1998-2000 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
135 kW - 2000-2003 530d - 3.0 L M57D30 dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
142 kW
The BMW M57 type Engine is a straight-6 Diesel produced from 1998. It won the "2.5-3 L" category of the International Engine of the Year award for 1999 through 2002. The updated twin-turbocharger version won that same award in 2005.
The 2.5 L (2497 cc/152 in³) M57D25 was the smallest member of the family. It produced 120 kW (161 hp) at 4000 rpm and 350 N·m (258 lb·ft) at 2000-2500 rpm with a 4750 rpm redline. Application: 525D
In US:
- 1997–2000 528i - 2.8 L M52B28 I6, 190 hp
- 1997–1998 540i - 4.4 L M62B44 V8, 282 hp
- 2001–2003 525i - 2.5 L M54B25 I6, 184 hp
- 2001–2003 530i - 3.0 L M54B30 I6, 225 hp
- 1998–2003 540i - 4.4 L M62TUB44 V8, 290 hp
- 2000–2003 M5BMW M5The first BMW M5, based on the E28 5 Series, made its debut at Amsterdam Motor Show in February 1984. It was the product of demand for an automobile with the carrying capacity of a saloon , but the overall performance of a sports car. It utilized the 535i chassis and an evolution of the engine from...
- 5.0 L S62 V8, 394 hp
The E39 has been widely praised in all aspects, and it perennially earned a place on Car and Driver's 10Best list. The E39 BMW 5-series was considered the benchmark of its class and Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports is an American magazine published monthly by Consumers Union since 1936. It publishes reviews and comparisons of consumer products and services based on reporting and results from its in-house testing laboratory. It also publishes cleaning and general buying guides...
gave the 2001 530i its highest car rating ever. The diesel engines available in the European models provide great torque and smoothness with better economy. The very first E39 BMW 5 Series rolled off the assembly line in February, 1995.
The M5 has been called "the ultimate in discreet speed" with 369 lbf·ft (500 N·m) of torque and a 0–60 mph time of 4.8 s, and was praised for its excellent mix of handling and comfort. The only downside was its smallish cabin and tiny trunk space of 11.1 ft³ (314 L).
E60/E61 (2003-2010)
- See also BMW E60BMW E60The BMW E60 is the BMW 5 Series automobile, replacing the BMW E39 in 2003. It was replaced by the BMW F10 from March 2010. The E60 was available in both sedan and station wagon platforms....
for more information
The BMW E60
BMW E60
The BMW E60 is the BMW 5 Series automobile, replacing the BMW E39 in 2003. It was replaced by the BMW F10 from March 2010. The E60 was available in both sedan and station wagon platforms....
was the fifth generation of the 5 Series. Its styling (designed by late BMW designer Davide Arcangeli) and many of its advanced features received mixed reviews. It is noted for its non-traditional BMW design, the most controversial being the "Bangle butt"
Chris Bangle
Christopher Edward "Chris" Bangle is an American automobile designer. Bangle is known best for his work as Chief of Design for BMW Group, where he was responsible for the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce motor cars.- Biography :...
rear-end, though since then critics have said that the design has aged well as of 2010. Despite criticism over its exterior design and interior electronics, this became the best-selling 5 Series. Considered the heart of the BMW brand, it generated 20 percent of the company’s profits and accounted for between 25 and 30 percent of sales in the key U.S. market (but just 2 percent in Canada). Since 2005, the 5 Series has been the segment leader, out-selling the Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a range of executive-size cars manufactured by Mercedes-Benz in various engine and body configurations. The E initially stood for Einspritzmotor, ; a new feature in volume production vehicles at the time that the E-Class first appeared, with the E as a suffix to the...
among others.
The E60/61 represented a significant step forward in technology over the previous generation. The controversial iDrive
IDrive
iDrive is a computer system which is used to control most secondary vehicle systems in many current BMW cars. iDrive's user interface consists of a LCD panel mounted in the dashboard and a controller knob mounted on the center console....
interface featured electronic control over all aspects of the vehicle from the suspension, to brightness of interior lights, to different temperature zones within the cabin. The vehicle was also equipped with an array of safety features from adaptive headlamps to Hill start assist, and was also equipped with a Trailer Stability Program
Trailer Stability Program
Trailer Stability Program, or TSP, is an extension of the car safety system known as Electronic Stability Control, or ESC. It applies exclusively to trailers and caravans...
to aid when towing a large trailer or caravan. Other major options included Active Cruise Control and Active Steering
Active Steering
Active steering a type of power electric variable gear ratio power steering technology introduced by BMW in 2003 first appearing on the redesigned 5-series which varies the degree that the wheels turn in response to the steering wheel...
. Two new features became available in September 2005, BMW Night Vision and High-Beam Assist.
xDrive
BMW xDrive
BMW xDrive is BMW's four-wheel drive system that powers the X1, X3, X5, X6 and 2006 and later xd and xi 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series models. BMW confirmed it has ....
Four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive, 4WD, or 4×4 is a four-wheeled vehicle with a drivetrain that allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously...
system became an option on the 5 Series for the first time since the E34 in 1996, available on six-cylinder models. This system was shared with the 3-Series
BMW 3 Series
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. Successor to the BMW New Class, it has been produced in five different generations and in no less than five different body styles. It is BMW's best-selling model, accounting for around 30% of the...
, X3
BMW X3
The BMW X3 is a compact crossover SUV marketed by the German automaker BMW, based on the BMW 3-Series automobile platform, and now in its second generation. BMW designed the X3 in conjunction with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria — who manufactured all X3s under contract to BMW for the first...
and X5
BMW X5
The BMW X5 is a luxury crossover SUV introduced in 1999 as the first generation E53. It was BMW's first SUV also known as "Four-by-Four" in the UK. It features all-wheel drive which is branded as the "X" drive system and is available with either manual or automatic transmission...
. 2006-2008 models were badged as the 525xi, 528xi, 530xi and 535xi. For the 2009 model year and onwards, they have been badged as the 528i xDrive and 535i xDrive.
The BMW 5-Series was available in both sedan (E60) and wagon (E61) versions and had the following models:
- 2005-2006 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I4, 110 kW - 2006-2007 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I4, 120 kW - 2007- 520d - 2.0 L (1995 cc) dieselDiesel engineA diesel engine is an internal combustion engine that uses the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber...
I4, 130.5 kW - 2003-2005 520i - 2.2 L (2171 cc) I6Straight-6The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
, 125 kW - 2007- 520i - 2.0 L (1995 cc) I4, 125 kW
- 2004-2007 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 130 kW
- 2007- 523i - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 140 kW
- 2004-2007 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2497 cc) I6, 160 kW
- 2007- 525i/xi - 2.5 L (2996 cc) I6, 160 kW
- 2004-2007 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 190 kW
- 2007- 530i/xi - 3.0 L (2979 cc) I6, 200 kW
- 2004-2007 530d/xd - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 175 kW and 500 N·m (368.8 ft·lbf)
- 2004- 535d - 3.0 L (2993 cc) diesel I6, 200 kW and 413 ft·lbf (560 N·m) (compression ratio: 16.5:1)
- 2006- M5 - 5.0 L S85BMW S85The BMW S85B50 is a DOHC 40-valve V10 automotive piston engine present in the E60 M5 sedan, E61 M5 touring and E63/64 M6 coupé. It was derived directly from BMW's Formula 1 racing division....
V10, 373 kW
In US:
- 2004-2005 525i - 2.5 L M54B25 I6, 184 hp
- 2004-2005 530i - 3.0 L M54B30 I6, 225 hp
- 2004-2005 545i - 4.4 L N62B44 V8, 325 hp
- 2006-2007 525i/xi - 3.0 L N52B30 I6, 215 hp
- 2006-2007 530i/xi - 3.0 L N52B30 I6, 255 hp
- 2006- 550i - 4.8 L N62B48 V8, 360 hp
- 2008- 528i/xi - 3.0 L N52B30 I6, 230 hp
- 2008- 535i/xi - 3.0 L N54B30 twin-turbo I6, 300 hp
- 2006- M5BMW M5The first BMW M5, based on the E28 5 Series, made its debut at Amsterdam Motor Show in February 1984. It was the product of demand for an automobile with the carrying capacity of a saloon , but the overall performance of a sports car. It utilized the 535i chassis and an evolution of the engine from...
- 5.0 L S85BMW S85The BMW S85B50 is a DOHC 40-valve V10 automotive piston engine present in the E60 M5 sedan, E61 M5 touring and E63/64 M6 coupé. It was derived directly from BMW's Formula 1 racing division....
V10, 373 kW
Crash scores
| EuroNCAP EuroNCAP The European New Car Assessment Programme is a European car safety performance assessment programme based in Brussels and founded in 1997 by the Transport Research Laboratory for the UK Department for Transport and backed by several European governments.-History and activities:Euro NCAP is a... adult occupant: |
|
| EuroNCAP child occupant: | |
| EuroNCAP pedestrian: | |
| IIHS Insurance Institute for Highway Safety The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a U.S. non-profit organization funded by auto insurers, established in 1959 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. It works to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes, and the rate of injuries and amount of property damage in the crashes that... overall frontal offset score: |
Good |
| IIHS overall side crash test score: | Marginal |
| Frontal Driver: | |
| Frontal Passenger: | |
| Side Driver: | |
| Side Rear Passenger: | |
| Rollover: |
Refreshed 5-Series update (January 2007)
The updated E60/E61 5-Series was unveiled on January 8, 2007. For model yearModel year
The model year of a product is a number used worldwide, but with a high level of prominence in North America, to describe approximately when a product was produced, and indicates the coinciding base specification of that product....
2008, BMW added a slightly redesigned interior, subtle exterior details, and new motor options. Updates included new front and rear bumpers, re-styled front headlights and re-styled LED taillights. A refreshed interior was also presented featuring the new shifter from the new X5, and the addition of the new BMW electronic throttle system.
The 2008 model of the 520i had a new engine: a 2.0 litres 4 cylinders instead of the R6 2.2 litres. High compression and new piezo direct injection technology
Gasoline direct injection
In internal combustion engines, gasoline direct injection , also known as petrol direct injection or direct petrol injection, is a variant of fuel injection employed in modern two-stroke and four-stroke gasoline engines...
kept the performance on 170 bhp / 210 newton metre, but bettered the fuel economy. A Lane Departure Warning System
Lane departure warning system
In road-transport terminology, a lane departure warning system is a mechanism designed to warn a driver when the vehicle begins to move out of its lane on freeways and arterial roads. These systems are designed to minimize accidents by addressing the main causes of collisions: driver error,...
based on core Mobileye
Mobileye
Mobileye is a technology company that focuses on the development of vision-based Advanced Driver Assistance Systems providing warnings for collision prevention and mitigation. Mobileye offers a wide range of driver safety solutions combining artificial vision image processing, multiple...
technology was added and the Active Cruise Control system added a "Stop and Go" feature which can bring the vehicle to a stop automatically and resume again. BMW also launched a new M5 Touring into their range, but this was not introduced in the USA
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
.
F10/F11 (2010- present)
- See also BMW F10 for more information
The sixth generation of the 5-Series (BMW F10) made its debut on 23 November 2009 as a 2010 model. The platform is based on the F01 7 Series; improvements include a front dual ball joint
Dual ball joint suspension
A dual ball joint suspension uses a pair of arms, one in tension, one in compression, to replace a wishbone, in a MacPherson or SLA suspension. The outer end of each arm terminates in a ball joint, hence the name.- General description :...
short-long arm suspension
Short long arms suspension
A short long arms suspension is also known as an unequal length double wishbone suspension. The upper arm is typically an A-arm, and is shorter than the lower link, which is an A-arm or an L-arm, or sometimes a pair of tension/compression arms...
(replacing the MacPherson strut
MacPherson strut
The MacPherson strut is a type of car suspension system which uses the axis of a telescopic damper as the upper steering pivot. It is widely used in modern vehicles and named after Earle S. MacPherson, who developed the design.-History:...
suspensions BMW previously used), and a rear multilink suspension.
For the powertrain, there is a ZF 8-speed
ZF 8HP transmission
The ZF 8HP is an eight-speed automatic transmission, designed and built by ZF Friedrichshafen AG subsidiary ZF Getriebe GmbH in Saarbrücken. It is to debut in a rear-wheel drive application in the new BMW 7 Series 760Li saloon fitted with the V12 engine....
automatic transmission
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
, the single turbo inline-6 N55
BMW N55
The N55 is a turbocharged straight-6 automobile engine from BMW. It was launched in early 2009 in the new BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo in the BMW 535i GT model...
, and the twin-turbo V8 N63
BMW N63
The N63 is a family of 4.4L, direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 automobile engines produced by BMW since 2008.-Specifications:The N63B44 features a reverse-flow air design in which the turbochargers are mounted in the engine valley and the intake manifolds are located on the sides of the block...
.
It is designed by P.H. McFlagger, with a more prominent upright split kidney grille and the absence of the "Bangle butt"
Chris Bangle
Christopher Edward "Chris" Bangle is an American automobile designer. Bangle is known best for his work as Chief of Design for BMW Group, where he was responsible for the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce motor cars.- Biography :...
rear-end styling of its E60 predecessor. Externally, the car is a more traditional BMWesque design; a far more sober effort after the highly controversial E60. Although it bears some resemblance to the E60 with the wide kidney grilles and a very pronounced Hofmeister kink
Hofmeister kink
The Hofmeister kink is an automobile design feature seen on modern BMWs. It is a low forward bend in the C-pillar of the car, which is the piece of metal that separates the rear side windows from the rear glass...
, the creases in the bonnet and just underneath the door are clearly related to the E39 and other earlier 5 series models. Inside marks the return of the centre console being clearly angled towards the driver, another marked change from its immediate predecessor which was noted for its non traditional BMW design. However, opinion is divided, as a reviewer described the F10 as too bland and conservative, compared to the E60 predecessor, as well as having too much of a resemblance to the E90 3-Series.
F10/F11 (2011-)
The F10 has, for the European market at least, a choice of 7 engines: a 4.4 litre N63BMW N63
The N63 is a family of 4.4L, direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 automobile engines produced by BMW since 2008.-Specifications:The N63B44 features a reverse-flow air design in which the turbochargers are mounted in the engine valley and the intake manifolds are located on the sides of the block...
topping the range in the 550i, followed by a trio of straight 6 petrols. Despite many rumours to the contrary, BMW's second best selling model after the 3 series did not use any 4 cylinder petrol engines for the 2011 model year. Instead, BMW retained a trio of straight six engines, completing the petrol engine range. The 535i has the 306 bhp 295 lbft BMW N55
BMW N55
The N55 is a turbocharged straight-6 automobile engine from BMW. It was launched in early 2009 in the new BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo in the BMW 535i GT model...
engine which made its debut in the F07 5 Series GT, and will shortly find its way into the facelifted BMW E92 and E93. The magnesium block naturally aspirated direct injection straight 6 continues in Europe at least; this engine is the BMW N53
BMW N53
The BMW N53 is BMW's 14th generation production straight 6 engine, released in 2007 in the facelifted BMW 5 Series and the BMW 3 Series . It is an improvement on the N52 Naturally Aspirated engine mainly since it has gasoline direct injection technology and can burn stratified...
; 3.0 litres, 258 bhp for the 528i, and 3.0 litres and 204 bhp for the 523i, same outputs as the BMW E89
BMW E89
BMW E89 is the chassis code of the second generation of BMW Z4. It now has a retractable hardtop like the Mercedes SLK replacing the previous roadster and coupé versions for the 2009 model year. There are exclusively six-cylinder engines on this generation...
Z4 sDrive23i.
The 4 petrol engines are complemented by a trio of diesel engines. Again, despite rumours to the contrary, BMW has decided to only offer one 4 cylinder engine here: the 520d. This means that the 525d continues to offer the superior mechanical refinement of a straight six as opposed to the rumoured 523d with 4 cylinders. The 525d is joined by a 530d; both models use the same BMW N57
BMW N57
The BMW N57 is a family of aluminium, turbocharged straight-6 common rail diesel engines. The engines utilize variable geometry turbochargers and Bosch piezo-electric injectors.-Summary:-N57D30:...
3.0 litre engine, the 525d has 204 bhp and 450 newton metre, the 530d with 245 bhp and 540 newton metre of torque. Expect hybrid models later, as well as more powerful straight 6 diesel to replace the award winning 535d.
The 2012 BMW 528i will swap its Valvetronic N52B30 3.0 litre 240 bhp (179 kW; 243 PS) inline-6 for the new N20 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 which will produce 240 hp (179 kW) at 5000 rpm and 260 lb·ft (350 N·m) of torque from 1250 rpm, and this makes the entire North American 5 Series lineup powered by turbocharged gasoline engines. xDrive will be optional with the 2012 528i.[12][13] Powertrain updates are officialy introduced on August 16, 2011 on BMW site. 520i/528i gets N20 inline-4 turbo, 530i remains only naturally aspirated powered 5 series with 3 litre BMW N53 engine. 535i/550i remains the same[14]. Diesel models are also updated, 520d gets Efficient Dynamics Edition while 525d produce 218 hp. 530d has 13 hp more which results in 258 hp and 535d gets engine from 640d model which results in 313 hp. xDrive is available with 528i, 535i, 550i, 525d, 530d and 535d models.
A long-wheelbase version was released by Brilliance-BMW in China on August 5, 2010, with three engine options—all having 6 cylinders: 2.5L, 3.0L, and Turbo-3.0L.
5 Series Gran Turismo (F07)
In May 2009, BMW released the official pictures of its production model 5 Series Gran TurismoBMW 5 Series Gran Turismo
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is an executive or mid-size car from German manufacturer BMW, which was first displayed at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show as a concept car...
(BMW F07), which is considered a coupé-like crossover vehicle or station wagon - a blend of different typical body styles. BMW advertises the new 5 Series GT as "The First of its Kind". The GT is taller than other fastback competitors.
The F07 Gran Turismo (designed by Christopher Weil) shares the same F01 7 Series-derived platform, powertrain, mechanical package, and dashboard with the F10. However the F07's fascia
Fascia (car)
Confusingly, fascia is used for several different things in the automotive world. Many of these meanings are related to the appearance of the car....
has different headlights and bumper, with a larger split-kidney grille similar to that of the F01 7 Series. The F07 also has a taller height resulting in a higher center of gravity, its longer length allows for more rear legroom, the rear passenger accommodation has optional "Executive" bucket seats for two instead of the three-seat bench, and it weights 400 pounds heavier compared to the F10. The F07 also features frame-less doors and a double-pane liftgate truck.
The 5 Series GT is powered by a single-turbo diesel I6 producing 245 PS, by a single-turbo I6 producing 306 PS and a twin-turbo V8 producing 408 PS; the latter will give the car a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds. This is the first BMW to receive the new ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, along with a new Brake Energy Regeneration system.
BMW has suggested that the new 5 Series GT would replace the 5 Series Touring (wagon) in their North American lineup, due to slow sales of the E61 wagon in the United States, with only 400 sold in 2009. In that country, more BMW M5
BMW M5
The first BMW M5, based on the E28 5 Series, made its debut at Amsterdam Motor Show in February 1984. It was the product of demand for an automobile with the carrying capacity of a saloon , but the overall performance of a sports car. It utilized the 535i chassis and an evolution of the engine from...
and Z8
BMW Z8
The BMW Z8 was a roadster car produced by German automaker BMW from 1999-2003. It was given the E52 BMW model code.The Z8 was the production variant of the 1997 Z07 concept car, which was designed by Henrik Fisker at BMW's DesignworksUSA in Southern California. The Z07 originally was designed as a...
s have been sold than the 535i and 540i wagons, respectively. BMW is targeting annual sales of 4000 to 8000 5 Series GTs. However, the GT concept has befuddled many of BMW owners and potential buyers in the United States, leaving many of them switching to Mercedes-Benz E-Class station wagons. BMW North America regretted its decision to substitute the GT for the 5-Series station wagon.
The F07 was released in the fourth quarter of 2009 as a 2010 model, before the rest of the next-generation 5 Series lineup. In Canada and the United States, for first half of 2010, the Gran Turismo was sold alongside the outgoing E60 5 Series, until the rollout of the F10 in June 2010 for the 2011 model year.
BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid
The hybrid electricHybrid electric vehicle
A hybrid electric vehicle is a type of hybrid vehicle and electric vehicle which combines a conventional internal combustion engine propulsion system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional...
concept
Concept car
A concept vehicle or show vehicle is a car made to showcase new styling and or new technology. They are often shown at motor shows to gauge customer reaction to new and radical designs which may or may not have a chance of being produced....
version of the BMW 5 series, introduced as BMW Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid, was unveiled at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. The use of BMW ActiveHybrid technology allows the hybrid electric
Hybrid electric vehicle
A hybrid electric vehicle is a type of hybrid vehicle and electric vehicle which combines a conventional internal combustion engine propulsion system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional...
version to reduce both fuel consumption and emissions by more than 10%. According to BMW, the production version is scheduled to be released in 2011.
Awards
The E39 5 Series was on Car and DriverCar and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
magazine's annual Ten Best
Car and Driver Ten Best
Car and Driver magazine annually nominates a list of what it considers the Ten Best cars and Five Best trucks.All production vehicles for sale in that calendar year are considered with these restrictions:# The vehicle must be on sale by January...
list for six years straight, from its introduction in 1997 through 2002. It was also Motor Trend
Motor Trend
Motor Trend is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, issued by Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, and bearing the tag line "The Magazine for a Motoring World". Petersen Publishing was sold to British publisher EMAP in 1998, who sold the former Petersen...
s Import Car of the Year
Car of the Year
Car of the Year is a phrase usually considered to have been invented by Motor Trend magazine in the 1950s for their annual award for best American automobile...
for 1997 and What Car?
What Car?
What Car? is a long-running UK monthly automobile magazine and website, currently edited by Steve Fowler and published by Haymarket Motoring. First published in 1973, it is intended primarily as a magazine for consumers rather than dedicated automobile enthusiasts...
Executive Car of the Year 1997 through 2002. The E60 was named "Best New Luxury / Prestige Car" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year
Canadian Car of the Year
Canadian Car of the Year winners, as chosen by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada:-Canadian Car of the Year:-2011:Canadian Car of the Year winners, as chosen by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada:...
awards. Active Seat continuous passive motion seating comfort technology recognized as one of the Best Inventions of 1998 by Popular Science magazine. Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports is an American magazine published monthly by Consumers Union since 1936. It publishes reviews and comparisons of consumer products and services based on reporting and results from its in-house testing laboratory. It also publishes cleaning and general buying guides...
found the E39 5 series their best car tested in 2001-2002. The JB car pages have awarded the BMW 5-Series a best-in-class 4 1/2 star rating.
Production and sales
| Calendar year | Total production | US sales | China sales |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 22,637 | ||
| 1996 | 22,775 | ||
| 1997 | 228,800 | ||
| 1998 | 221,600 | ||
| 1999 | 201,400 | 38,218 | |
| 2000 | 191,546 | 39,703 | |
| 2001 | 193,948 | 40,005 | |
| 2002 | 172,323 | 40,842 | |
| 2003 | 185,481 | 46,964 | |
| 2004 | 229,598 | 45,584 | |
| 2005 | 228,389 | 52,722 | |
| 2006 | 232,193 | 56,756 | |
| 2007 | 230,845 | 54,142 | |
| 2008 | 202,287 | 45,915 | |
| 2009 | 175,983 | 40,109 | |
| 2010 | 211,968 | 39,488 | 42,076 |