The 2012 BMW 5-Series is up to the competition in the arena of large luxury sedans. However, it is not as sporty as other sedans.
Nevertheless, the 5-Series provides a high degree of comfort and the nimbleness that the 5-Series is known for remains.
Apart from that, the 5-Series boasts competitive wheel and handling packages.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $46,900.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L) | MPG: 20 city / 30 hwy |
| Length: 193.1 in. (490.4 cm) | Wheel Base: 116.9 in. (296.9 cm) |
| Height: 57.6 in. (146.3 cm) | Width: 73.2 in. (185.9 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3814 lbs (1730 kg) | Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 14 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 TwinTurbo DOHC | Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1 |
| Horsepower: 240 HP | Max RPM: 5000-6000 RPM |
| Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 1250-4800 rpm | Transmission: X-Speed Automatic |
| Option:528i xDrive | MSRP: $49,200; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy |
| Option:535i 6 Cylinder | MSRP: $52,500; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy |
| Option:535i xDrive 6 Cylinder | MSRP: $54,800; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy |
| Option:550i 4.4L V8 | MSRP: $62,000; MPG: 15 city / 22 hwy |
| Option:550i xDrive 4.4L V8 | MSRP: $64,300; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy |
Engine
There are three engines available for the 5 Series. First is the turbocharged inline-four 2.0 liter engine that delivers 240 horsepower and 260 lbs/ft of torque. The second engine is an inline-six turbocharged 3.0 liter engine that produces 300 horsepower and 300 lbs/ft of torque.
If you want more power, the turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 engine that brings out 400 horsepower and 450 lbs/ft or torque is available.
Performance
If you choose the right package, you can still get the athleticism that the previous 5 Series models provide. By default though, the new 5 Series focuses more on comfort. You get adequate power from its competitive engines. And although the base engine has fewer cylinders than its predecessor, it does not lack horses and torque.
In fact, it even became more fuel efficient. And although the base models do not come as sporty as the old 5 Series models, the excellent handling performance is not lost.
Exterior
The 2012 5 Series is not as bulky as other large luxury cars. Thanks to its fine lines and exquisite curves and edges. From a perspective, the new 5 Series looks rather serious than sporty. Perhaps that is to give drivers an idea about what they will experience inside. The stance is neither too aggressive nor too passive.
Interior
Built from the finest materials, the interior of the new 5 Series is truly luxurious. The iDrive in this car is more intuitive than it is in other BMW car models. The electronics are also praised for being convenient to use.
The front seats provide enough support and comfort but this trait is not entirely present in the back seat. Taller adults may feel lack in legroom. Overall the interior for the new 5 Series can be considered as upscale.
Safety
The 5 Series is a Top Safety Pick for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. That is for scoring “good” in all crash tests that the institution performed. On the other hand, the federal government gave the 5 Series 5 out of 5 stars. Optional safety features of the 5 Series are pedestrian detection and night vision systems as well as a blind spot monitoring system.
Reliability
The 5 Series comes with a standard 4-year warranty. The first scheduled maintenance after one year is free of charge and owners are given the 24 hour roadside assistance during the first four years of ownership. A 12-year corrosion perforation warranty is also included.
Pros
It has a capable engine paired with excellent handling. The cabin is more comfortable than previous models. The attractive interior is made of top-quality materials and the interior features are more user friendly than ever. There are generous upgrade options that can make the car truly sporty. Moreover, the 5 Series has excellent safety scores.
Cons
The new 5 Series has a smaller cargo space. It is not as sporty as the previous 5 Series models.
The 2012 BMW 5 Series may not be as sporty as before but it still is generous with a great package that is just right for its big price. Other options that may be worth looking at include the Mercedes C350 Sport (MSRP $40,575; 20 city / 29 hwy), the Acura TL (MSRP $41,635; 20 city / 29 hwy), and the Audi A6 (MSRP $41,700; 25 city / 33 hwy).
Overall Rating
85 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 BMW 5-Series has a very traditional sport-sedan interior, if you look at seating layout, but it’s also a comfortable, quiet luxury sedan whenever you need it to be.”Car Connection
“With their base suspensions, all 5-Series cars are well-balanced, agile, and composed. When ordered with the Sport Package, BMW’s Active Roll Stabilization is available.”Consumer Guide
“Regardless of drivetrain, the 2012 BMW 5 Series family provides a balanced approach to over-the-road performance.”KBB
“Possessing a strong combination of performance, comfort and technology, the 2012 BMW 5 Series is a top choice in the midsize luxury sedan segment. However, BMW loyalists may be a bit disappointed.”Edmunds
