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Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
216 reviews

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love it

Jaykayd, 04/20/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Fast, powerful and so much fun to drive... just wish the clutch didn't go so quickly... also had a transmission problem that required a switch. Other than those problems, and a niggling window rattling problem, it's a dream car.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

The best

Dayo, 01/04/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The best car you can own

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5 out of 5 stars

Love it!!!!

sean neill, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Best car i ever ownd.... but i am going to trade it in for the new one

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5 out of 5 stars

Best New car I've ever purchased

Larry oliver, 04/26/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The car was flawless from day one. There were no factory defects to address!!! The 525i has plenty of power. I couldn't justify spending another $3,100 for the 530i. The only other option I would have gotten is an automatic diming rearview mirror. My previous vehicle was a 95 Ford Windstar, no comparison!

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5 out of 5 stars

The Ultimate Test Drive

Bimmer FIEND, 04/26/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I test drove this vehcle with my father and I am hooked on it. The ride quality is superb on the suburban roads. Unlike my dad's Buick Park Avenue, this car absorbs bumps and immediately recovers whereas our Buick bounces for a while after. Pulling onto the freeway my dad (I do not yet have a license) just tapped the gas and we were off. I probably would've floored it. Even mild acceleration is a rush though. GREAT at cornering. This car cruises very well. BMW is loosing fans fast, however, with there new designssuch as the Z4 and the upcoming new 5. Why mess with such a good thing.

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5 out of 5 stars

This Car is Wonderful!

Califlygirl, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car makes me smile every time I slip into it and take it for a ride! It is smooth, extremely well-built, lovely to look at and is recommended highly.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

2002 BMW 525i

DianeRD, 04/28/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We love our BMW 525i! It's fun to drive, feels very solid, and looks like a million bucks. Several young MPs have commented when I stop for ID check at West Point, "Nice car, ma'am." Now that's nice for a 60-year- old to hear!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My Dream Car Lives Up to My Expectations

LadyTLS, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car new in January 2003 and have been grinning ever since. The ride is a great combination of luxury and performance -- meaning you ride in comfort but you still feel connected to the road. And when you hit the gas, you know you've got power under the hood ready to meet your needs. I also had to take a quick evasive manuever once when another car turned in front of mine, and I quickly discovered that this car handles like a champ!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

What a car !

BMWFan, 12/05/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is truly a joy to drive. The Sports Package makes it especially fun and the 5 speed gearbox is a blast. My advice to anybody looking to buy a 5 series is to buy it now, before they switch over to the new 5 next summer. I believe the 530 offers the best price/performance trade off.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Performer

Gary W, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have never owned a German Car before. I am amazed of the performance of this car. It is solid and feels very heavy and safe on the road. I currently have a lexus as a second vehicle and this BMW totally out performs it. I recommend it to everyone. I will be looking to get another BMW when The Lexus lease is up. Can't wait.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

4 door Porsche

donelonpc, 05/08/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I got the 540i with the Sports package. Massive 18" rims are incredible. The car has an amazing ride over rough serfaces, yet feels like a stiff sports suspension when needed. It handles on a dime. This machine plain out halls a**. 0-60 in 6 seconds. You have to use the cruise control or get in trouble. I drove a new Boxster, and really believe this car out accelerates and handles the 2 seater.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

POWER...

makisig, 05/28/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is my 2nd BMW (former was a 330ci). Bought a brand new 540i this past weekend, and the increase in power and speed is just well beyond my expectation. The amazing thing is that this 540i cruises at 80 mph with the rpm hovering around 2500. When it accelerates, it does nimbly and with such power and control. I am in my mid 30's, and I think this car is just perfect for that age group. The 540 version asks for a lot of $$$, but I think it's worth it if you can afford it. A nice compromise for people who want power but not the price and power in an M version.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

The best car I've ever own

Charlie IL, 01/08/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My BMW 540I 6 Speed is my fourth BMW. I have own 2 Mercedes Benz 3 other BMW's but the BMW 540I has to be the best car. I love the way it handles cornering, stopping, power, perfornmance over all. The styling of the exterior as well as the interior of the car has to be one if not the most sexiest one. I also like the fact that I feel very safe while driving it, where on other cars I don't get that feeling. The BMW 540I is the best car to drive.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My 6speed dream come true!

flyguy102, 05/30/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Took delivery on this black on black 6 speed 540i 2 weeks ago. First test...700 miles to Scottsdale and back. In a word...IT BLEW ME AWAY! The powertrain is an art form! Low end torque incredible. The cars build quality is so strong that you become oblivious to speed. Ride and handling impeccable. Interior build/sound quality is excellent. Fit, and finish wonderful. I'm so glad that I didn't drop $65K on a Lexus convertable instead. This was my first BMRr and now I'm a convert for life. Next stop...a companion M3 convertable for my 6 mile RT commute to work!

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5 out of 5 stars

The best driving machine around

moreno, 06/05/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Had dreamt about owning it for a long time. Finally my day came and after 2.5 years, I still have the same excitement feeling about owning. I look at it in awe. Athletic, safe, roomy, and humble at the same time. If you buy one, I suggest the European delivery program so you can see how this machine performs cruising at 150 MPH in the autobahn. Very tight, and and hear the engine purr at that speed!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best sports sedan period

ali kayani, 01/21/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is one good looking and awesome sports sedan. It is very comfortable and luxorious and sporty sedan. The interior is very fine. The materials used are quality and the car is quite agile and solid. No doubt it wins all its comparisons. If u want a quality sexy sports sedan then buy the BMW 5 series sedan with sports package

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The 5 sets the standard!

bmwmrc, 09/29/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love the handling, fit and finish, and yes even the power of the vehicle, even though it's missing a little bit of horse power. The car however, is a dream to drive. I compared it to others in it class including Lexus, Acura and Saab and nothing drives or feels like the ultimate driving machine!

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5 out of 5 stars

The Last 5 Made By God

SPUY767, 06/18/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

When we stroll through the annals of automotive history, I don't think that any car quite embodies all aspects of a perfect car like the 5 Series. Power, handling, comfort, economy, style, it's all there, and in droves. I do not think that anyone has ever built a more refined vehicle than this generation of the 5.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love my BMW

DBCAFY, 02/25/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Best car ever build. Combination of 5 passenger seating, room for golf clubs and best of all - sports car!

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5 out of 5 stars

BMW 525i

jerroldl, 08/13/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is by far the best automobile I have ever owned. They call the BMW the ultimate driving machinem and they have the right to do so.

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5 out of 5 stars

2003 540i - Ultimate Driving Machine!!!

J.J., 04/09/2007
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

If you're like me, and don't like what BMW has done to the interior of the new 5 series than you'll love the 540i. It's still a "driver's" car with the interior cantered to the one behind the wheel. Having just purchased a pre-owned with relatively low miles this car is going to be a collector's car someday. It's the last of a BMW classic. The thick steering wheel in the M sports package add to the 540i's overall handeling and driving sensation. The engine is more than enough and commands repect even amongst it's peers. Fun, superb road handling, saftey and style define everything that has built BMW to what it is today. If you're not into the new look and confusing iDrive, the 540i is it!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

525ia - awesome

jz, 07/02/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

great perfromance on the 2.5, don't need the 3.0 as I "stepped down" from a X5 4.4, love the deisgn, all he features, the only thing that BMW needs to introduce is an in-dash CD changer

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My 9th Bimmer with no surprises

Bimman, 06/30/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Picked up my 6 speed Black on Black in April 2003, with no surprises. I've got 5,000 road miles already. This car is truly a great performer. I've had BMWs from 1983 to now and the improvements in performance has come a long way. This by far is the best E39 I've had. The more mileage this car gets, the better it runs.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My first BMW

magic32, 09/03/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My first BMW . . . now I know why they call it the ultimate driving machine!

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3.75 out of 5 stars

Never Again

Scott, 08/04/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Being stationed overseas I figured it was time to buy a new BMW. I owned this car for 4.5 years, replaced all 4 rotors three times, also replaced 4 of 6 ignition coils throughout my ownership. All under warranty, luckily. Replaced the cub hold assembly, too easily broken. It's great to drive especially on the German Autobahn, but the headaches of maintenance were too much. I sold this car and after three months the new owner e-mailed and said the ignition coil went out.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Pretty fenomenal

EnthusiastDriver, 02/03/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the second 540i 6spd I own, replacing a '98. Performance, reliability, workmanship are incredible. I did Euro delivery for both cars, and it added to the experience. Overall, the price/performance ratio is incredible. Best car I ever owned.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best Sport Luxury Perfomance Sedan

K-Kar, 10/01/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the second 5 series I've purchased in 5 years. I really think the technology in the 2003 has hit the mark.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

GRRRR, Love the Power

DCNH, 04/26/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This will be my 3rd BMW. I have owned the 3 series in the past. I love the power/torg of the 540. Handling is superb for a V8. Extremely comfortable and queit on the 18' wheels. Plenty of room in front / rear. Xlnt highway car. Going 80 mph feels like 30.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great car to drive...

jcc, 09/22/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was going to buy the 325i, but changed my mind with a week before I actually bought the 525i. With the new design coming out next month, this car is by far the best value out there if you are looking to buy a BMW right now. Great car to drive for years. Test drive one and turn a few corners, you'll understand why.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

BMW 530i - You gotta drive one!

diggertoo, 09/29/2007
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Purchased used in great condition. The suspension system is incredible. The car feels like it's glued to the road and is the smoothest and most comfortable riding car I've ever driven. With a bad disk in my back, the lumbar system can be adjusted to make even longer trips very comfortable. The air vents in the dash provide circulation throughout the car, without hitting anyone directly in the face. And the sound system... if you close your eyes you would swear you were live at a concert. The sound system with 10 speakers and 2 subwoofers is that good and the list of other useful features could go on and on.

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5 out of 5 stars

THE BEST BMW EVER

Louis Sanchez, 02/04/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Best BMW ever. I have had 4 BMW's and my new 540 has to be the best car ever. Its fast, handles well, and it Performance like a true champion should. the BMW 540 6M has some sexy lines and has more to offer.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best Performance Sedan

Antonio Valla, 01/12/2005
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Love this car. I had numerous VW's (GTI, 2 Passats, New Beetle), and a BMW 325i Touring, but always lusted after the "5". When I realized the 2004 was going to get the Chris Bangle treatment, I went out and bought one of the last 2003 available.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome Experience!!!

KTB, 02/15/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Without a doubt this is a awesome automobile. I love the joy getting behind the sports steering wheel.From those beautiful/masculine 17" wheels, sports package, premium package and the very cool xenon headlights to the cold winter package I love how the car handles, how the engine responds cruising at 70mph and it's ability to zoom up to a higher speed in a matter of seconds. The only problem is finding the time to drive as much as I'd like.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Nice Driver

Sports Car Fan, 10/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

First BMW I've owned but its a real driver's car. Having had recent STS's which disappointed me, the BMW is a real sports sedan. Well worth the price.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

03 BMW

jeff epperson, 10/25/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Second BMW, its all it claims to be.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

great sports sedan

x021627, 10/25/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

previously owned acura tl and moved up to 530i. excellent handling, standard stereo and excellent materials and workmanship. i just love to drive this car!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

530i

guy colvin, 09/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Best car I have owned. 3.0 liter engine has reasonable power for the money but the 4.0 would be better. 5-speed manual trany is fun to drive but not always as smooth as I would like (could be my fault to). Have 7K miles on it and have had no warranty or other issues.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

THE BEST 5 SERIES

CMB, 10/22/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Dear consumers, All i can say is that the BMW 5 series IS the untimate driving machine...I have driven it from San Francisco to Mexico and have never had a bad experience....the comfort zone is amazing..The seat adjustments alone are worth the price...Take it for a test drive and find out for yourself...you will not be disappointed.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

What a car !

bmwfan, 12/05/2002
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is truly a joy to drive. The Sports Package makes it especially fun and the 5 speed gearbox is a blast. My advice to anybody looking to buy a 5 series is to buy it now, before they switch over to the new 5 next summer. I believe the 530 offers the best price/performance trade off.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best BMW I've Owned

chb, 09/29/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've owned 4 5-series and 1 7-series and my husband had a M6 and a M3 and this is the best BMW yet. My last 5 was a 2000 540i Sport 6 speed also. I could not believe the difference between the new one and the old one. The handing is super, the suspension wonderful. I love to drive it.

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5 out of 5 stars

Another happy 5 series consumer

snake327, 07/16/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car. Very quiet and great MPG on the interstate (30MPG). But those cupholders!!! When will the Germans get it right for the American consumer.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

BMW 2003 530i

Enzo, 10/23/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Best car on the market!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Awesome fast sporty sedan

BMW 540iA, M5 susp, 04/19/2009
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my 540iA new before the body style changed and I'm glad i did. I tested the 6 speed manual first but the sales rep convinced me to buy the automatic with manu-matic shift. The car is fast yet unassuming. My 540iA came with the M5 sports package complete with M5 steering wheel, suspension/brakes and front/rear spoilers. I was shopping for an M3 as I was already driving a 1998 528E but the M3 was too small - am so glad I made the right decision. I would recommend the 540ia to any sports, luxury and German car enthusiast.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome car

AP from CA, 07/24/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Got this puppy last month before they change the design. I am not a fan of the new BMW design trend. Love the old design. Anyways, test drove a E class and a C class as well. C class is no comparison. E class possible. But this is the best choice considering the price and what you get for it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best Sports Sedan Ever Built

DEAN, 11/09/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 540i 4dr Sedan (4.4L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've owned many cars in my 43 years of existance, and the BMW 540I is the most fun to drive, and the handling characteristics are like a train on tracks......sticks to the road.

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5 out of 5 stars

After its fifth birthday

dmotzev, 07/08/2008
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Just recently, I happened to trade in a six months old Japanese coupe for this 5 year old German saloon. What a difference! This is my first personal BMW and although it has almost 60000 miles on it, it feels tight and responsive. In fact, I test drove an E60 530i before I bought this one, but it just did not feel right. The combination of the M Sport package, the Premium package and the manual transmission creates an extremely convenient, yet amazingly looking everyday driver. Navigation is handy, but costs money to keep up-to-date. If you prefer adrenaline pumped driving, better look for a 540i/M5, but if you do not require extreme performance, you are going to love this car!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Sweet Ride

BilLil, 07/25/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Sport Seats are a little hard. Having difficulty getting it just right. What's up with those useless cup holders?

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best car I have ever owned.

Go 49ers!, 11/09/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 525i 4dr Sedan (2.5L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is the only 4 door sedan to own. Look no further as I have test driven the competition. Save your $$ and opt for the 2.5 engine as it is as quick as you ever need to drive after 40 miles per hour (not a jack rabbit start, but who needs one). Luxury abounds with interior appointments. Handling is a dream. With the sport package, this is the best looking car on the road in it's class.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love my 530i

canam, 11/09/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have the "older" design and its been flawless for over 50,000 miles. I hate the looks of the new BMW's so won't be getting another one.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

ast

hhlea, 11/09/2003
2003 BMW 5 Series 530i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car, all-in-all. We will definitely buy another, probably in the 7 series next time around.

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