2008 BMW 5-Series
Based on analysis of 52 5-Series reviews and test drives.
BMW 5-Series - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 BMW 5-Series ranks 2 out of 11 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 52 published reviews and test drives of the BMW 5-Series, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 5-Series' ranking is based on its class-leading combination of performance, comfort and technology. Other luxury large cars may rank higher insafety and interior, the BMW 5-Series scores well in every category and deserves a close look from any buyer.
The 2008 5-Series, which AutoWeek says offers "everything you come to expect from BMW," receives a mid-cycle refresh for 2008 -- resulting in slight changes to its exterior design and more power added to the base and mid-level engines. Despite its complicated and unpopular iDrive system and shortage of interior cargo room, auto writers find that the 2008 BMW 5-Series remains a powerful, comfortable, and technologically sophisticated vehicle. In fact, Kiplinger deems the 535xi a "Best in Class" super luxury vehicle -- describing it as an "elegant, understated luxury car with high resale values, competitive fuel economy and top-notch BMW handling." Though the base price may be high, most critics believe the 5-Series is well worth it.
The 2008 BMW 5-Series comes in four-door sedan or wagon body styles. Sedan trims include the 528i, 535i, and 550i. A performance-oriented M5 trim is also available.
- "BMWs have long set the standard for sports sedans, and while a handful of competitors have encroached on their territory, the 5-series sedan, and the 535i in particular, is one of the benchmarks against which others in this class are judged." - Kansas City Star
- BMWs "have been the benchmark for so long that the cars themselves seem to exude arrogance." - Car and Driver
- "To say it is the benchmark for the class is an understatement. It is the leader, and has been, for about as long as we can remember." - AutoSite
- "It is plush, the motorized equivalent of an exclusive condominium. It is prestigious." - Washington Post
- "The last-generation 5-Series had outstanding steering, handling and braking, with a supple ride. The new-generation version, which has nearly 50-50 weight distribution, is even better. ... Despite more adventuresome styling, the new 5-Series should do well. It's more fun to drive than ever, and driving fun has helped sell a lot of 5-Series models." - MSN
- "Clearly BMW is working hard to maintain the 5-Series as the template for the mid-sized premium category, but it's facing its toughest competition ever. The new 2008 Cadillac CTS is a strong contender, as are the Infiniti M, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Acura TL and Audi A6." - Orlando Sentinel
5-Series Performance - 9.0 (Excellent)
The BMW 5-Series ranks highly due to its offering of a number of strong powertrain options, as well as sporty handling dynamics to match. AutoWeek says, "[W]hen you can really wind it out, the car responds with an eagerness that's pure BMW." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn about the 5-Series's impressive handling dynamics, as well as which powertrain combination auto critics like the best. continue
5-Series Exterior - 8.6 (Very Good)
Subtle changes to the 2008 5-Series' exterior design get mostly positive reviews. According to New Car Test Drive, "Most of the styling touch-up lies in subtle details, but in our view they add character to this luxury sedan." In fact, the 5-Series receives the highest exterior score in its class. Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn how the 5-Series's 2008 mid-cycle refresh has affected its looks, or go to the 2008 BMW 5-Series Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
5-Series Interior - 8.1 (Very Good)
While reviews generally say that the 5-Series' cabin is luxurious and comfortable, BMW's complicated iDrive system prevents it from earning a higher interior ranking. According to the Washington Post, even "with substantial improvements and simplification, BMW's iDrive Controller remains a disincentive for some prospective buyers." Go to the 2008 BMW 5-Series Photo Gallery to see pictures of its luxurious cabin, or continue with our full Interior Review to see how BMW sparked a controversy among the auto press with its iDrive. continue
5-Series Safety - 7.5 (Good)
The 2008 BMW 5-Series does well in federal government crash tests, but earns low marks in side crash tests conducted by the insurance industry. Compared to other luxury large cars, the 5-Series only out-ranks the 2008 Infiniti M in terms of safety. Continue with our full Safety Review to read what auto writers think of the 5-Series' safety technology, including a lane-departure-warning system. continue
5-Series Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 BMW 5-Series reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). BMW offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn why some reviews call the 5-Series the "benchmark" of its class. continue
