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.

2003 Highlights

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.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2003 BMW 5 Series.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.8226 reviews

Write a review See all 226 reviews

5(88%)

4(8%)

3(2%)

2(0%)

1(2%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Electronic Gremlins

veinr,09/04/2009

I bought this car a little over a year ago and have spent approx. 2K in repairs. The radiator is plastic as is the water pump impeller motor. It had several oil and hydraulic leaks which I had repaired. The rear tires wear on the inside quite rapidly due to camber settings with the independent suspension. The battery burned a hole in itself and I've had several turn signal issues, lights

This isn't your mothers wagon!

srw66,02/01/2004

While it is true the sport suspension gives you precise feedback, I find the handling and roadfeel to be one of the best characteristics of the car. For those who are looking for a true perfomance car with the practicality of a wagon look no further. Put four snow tires on the car and winter is no issue. For those seeking to drive your living room this is not the car for

good but not perfect

hrp,05/29/2003

The BMW 540i is fun to drive but lacks interior comfort. Why can't they build a car with the comfort of a Lexus or Mercedes on the interior with the good looks of a BMW on the outside. I have owned three Mercedes and ejoyed their interiors and comfort but always thought the drive was not spunky or exciting. The 540i delivers a thrilling ride and wonderful handling,

The Ultimate Driving Machine

bimmer530i,12/20/2002

Ever since I was 14 years old I always wanted a BMW, now Im 16 and owning a great 530i. You can't go wrong with this car; it has performance and great stability in tight corners. BMW's are truly the Ultimate Driving Machine.

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Features & Specs

MPG

17 city / 24 hwy

Seats 5

5-speed manual

Gas

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

MPG

15 city / 19 hwy

Seats 5

5-speed shiftable automatic

Gas

290 hp @ 5400 rpm

See all Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagon features & specs

Safety

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
Good

More about the 2003 BMW 5 Series

Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagon Overview

The Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagon is offered in the following styles: 525i 4dr Sport Wagon (2.5L 6cyl 5M), and 540i 4dr Sport Wagon (4.4L 8cyl 5A).

What's a good price on a Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagon?

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Which used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagons are available in my area?

Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagon Listings and Inventory

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Should I lease or buy a 2003 BMW 5 Series?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Used 2003 BMW 5 Series Wagon

Used