zzdcar' Expert Review
by the zzdcar Experts
What’s new
This is your last chance to get a traditionally styled 5 Series -- next year, its styling becomes more closely aligned with the controversial 7 Series. For now, BMW will offer a DVD-based navigation system for the existing 5 Series -- but alas, you must still give up an in-dash CD player if you opt for the nav system. Besides that, rear head protection airbags (optional last year) are now standard across the line. Additionally, all six-cylinder models get a standard moonroof. Standard on the manual-shift 540i (and optional with the automatic) is a new sport package that includes 18-inch wheels, a revised sport suspension, front and rear spoilers, visible exhaust outlets, black side molding, a black headliner, titanium-ringed gauges and an M footrest for the driver. Finally, the 525i gets a new alloy wheel design, and its premium package now includes rain-sensing wipers.
zzdcar says
Upcoming redesign notwithstanding, the 5 Series is an excellent midsize luxury car, whether you choose the high-performance 540i or a comparatively basic 525i wagon. If you can afford one, we'd highly recommend it.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$214/mo for 5 Series 525i
5 Series 525i
525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M) - $37,600 MSRP525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M) - $39,300 MSRP530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M) (Most Popular) - $41,100 MSRP540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A) - $51,800 MSRP540i 4dr Sport Wagon (4.4L 8cyl 5A) - $54,100 MSRP540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M) - $55,800 MSRP
vs
$164/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
2003 5 Series Highlights
Type: SedanWagonSedan
Trim: 525i530i540i525i
Base MSRP | $37,600 |
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Engine Type | Gas |
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Combined MPG | 21 MPG |
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Cost to Drive | $214/month |
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Seating | 5 seats |
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Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 11.1 cu.ft. |
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Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
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Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
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