2025 BMW 5-Series: Luxury, Performance, and Advanced Tech

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2025 BMW 5-Series sedan on a scenic road, showcasing its sleek design.

2025 BMW 5-Series: A Luxurious and Technologically Advanced Sedan

The 2025 BMW 5-Series may have softened some of its sports-sedan sharpness from previous generations, but it remains a top contender in the mid-size luxury sedan category. Positioned between the compact 3-Series and the ultra-luxurious 7-Series, this model offers a refined driving experience with a high-end cabin and cutting-edge technology. Passengers can enjoy plush seating for both commuting and long-distance travel, while the dashboard features an array of digital displays to enhance driver awareness and passenger entertainment.

2025 BMW 5-Series: Powertrain Options and Performance

The standard engine is a turbocharged four-cylinder, but buyers can opt for a turbocharged inline-six or a powerful plug-in hybrid setup that delivers 483 horsepower. While the base model comes with rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive is standard on higher trims. BMW has managed to restore some of the sporty character to the 5-Series, though the high-performance M5 variant (reviewed separately) will provide the ultimate blend of power, agility, and excitement. For those who prioritize comfort over sportiness, the 5-Series rivals luxury sedans like the Audi A6, Genesis G80, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

What’s New for 2025?

Following a complete redesign in 2024, the 2025 BMW 5-Series remains largely unchanged. However, BMW has introduced the range-topping 550e model, which features a 483-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain consisting of a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, an electric motor, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive.

2025 BMW 5-Series: Pricing and Best Model to Buy

Pricing for the 2025 BMW 5-Series starts at $59,375 and goes up to $73,875, depending on the chosen trim level and options:

530i – $59,375
530i xDrive – $61,675
540i xDrive – $66,375 (Recommended)
550e xDrive – $73,875

Among these, the 540i xDrive stands out as a well-balanced choice, offering a smooth yet engaging driving experience with its turbocharged inline-six engine.

Engine, Transmission, and Driving Experience

The 530i is equipped with a 255-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, available with either rear- or all-wheel drive. The 540i xDrive features a turbocharged inline-six generating 375 horsepower and comes with all-wheel drive as standard. Both models benefit from a 48-volt hybrid system for improved efficiency.

The 550e plug-in hybrid combines an inline-six engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 483 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. The ride quality in the 530i is smooth yet subtly athletic, while the heavier 540i leans more toward luxury than sportiness. The optional M Sport package enhances handling and braking performance, with the 530i stopping from 70 mph in just 156 feet at BMW’s test track.

2025 BMW 5-Series: Acceleration and 0–60 MPH Times

In track testing:

The 530i xDrive reaches 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.
The 540i xDrive achieves 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds.
BMW claims the 550e hybrid can also sprint to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, with official test results to follow.

Electric Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid is fitted with a 19.4-kWh battery pack, expected to deliver around 40 miles of electric range per charge. Real-world testing results will be updated as soon as available.

2025 BMW 5-Series: Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2025 BMW 5-Series are:

530i: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
540i: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway

Real-world testing showed the 530i xDrive achieving 35 mpg on the highway, while the 540i xDrive returned an impressive 37 mpg. Official efficiency ratings for the 550e hybrid are still pending.

Interior, Comfort, and Features

The 2025 BMW 5-Series offers a spacious and luxurious cabin, ensuring both front and rear passengers travel in comfort. While genuine leather upholstery remains available, BMW also provides an eco-friendly Veganza alternative.

All trims come with automatic climate control, seamlessly integrated dashboard vents, and a standard tilt-and-slide sunroof. Buyers can upgrade to a large panoramic glass roof that extends into the rear seating area. Optional packages include:

Luxury Seating Package: Heated and ventilated front seats, power adjustments, and a massage function.
Premium Package: Heated steering wheel, head-up display, and additional convenience features.
Executive Package: Panoramic glass roof, power rear sunshade, glass interior controls, and an interior camera.

2025 BMW 5-Series: Final Thoughts

The 2025 BMW 5-Series continues to deliver an outstanding mix of luxury, technology, and performance. Whether opting for the refined 540i xDrive or the electrified 550e hybrid, drivers will find a well-balanced sedan that meets their needs. While it may have softened its sporty edge slightly, the 5-Series remains a strong competitor in the mid-size luxury segment, standing up to rivals like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2025 BMW 5-Series offers a state-of-the-art infotainment system featuring a large curved digital display. This setup includes a 12.3-inch reconfigurable gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, similar to the system found in the BMW 7-Series and iX electric SUV. The interface is intuitive, providing seamless access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Harman/Kardon stereo system. Additionally, BMW’s AirConsole video game system is available for entertainment while parked, and an optional head-up display enhances driver convenience.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

BMW equips the 5-Series with an array of standard driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. More advanced safety features, such as the Highway Assistant hands-free driving mode, are available as optional upgrades. For crash-test ratings and safety assessments, potential buyers can refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
Optional adaptive cruise control with hands-free driving mode

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW’s warranty and maintenance package is competitive within the luxury sedan segment but does not surpass what some rivals, like Jaguar, offer. Coverage includes:

Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles
Complimentary scheduled maintenance: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Specifications: 2024 BMW 530i xDrive

Vehicle Type: Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Base Price: $61,195 | As Tested: $70,745

Engine & Performance

Engine: Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 1998 cm³
Power Output: 255 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Chassis & Dimensions

Suspension (Front/Rear): Multilink/Multilink
Brakes (Front/Rear): 13.7-in vented disc / 13.6-in vented disc
Tires: Continental EcoContact 6 Q
Wheelbase: 117.9 in
Length: 199.2 in
Width: 74.8 in
Height: 59.6 in
Passenger Volume (Front/Rear): 55/46 ft³
Trunk Volume: 18 ft³
Curb Weight: 4090 lb

Performance & Fuel Economy

0-60 mph: 5.5 sec
1/4-Mile Time: 14.2 sec @ 96 mph
Top Speed (Mfr’s Claim): 155 mph
Observed Fuel Economy: 26 mpg
EPA Rating (Combined/City/Highway): 30/27/35 mpg
Highway Range: 550 mi

Specifications: 2024 BMW 540i xDrive

Vehicle Type: Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
Base Price: $65,895 | As Tested: $83,595

Engine & Performance

Engine: Turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 2998 cm³
Power Output: 375 hp @ 6250 rpm
Torque: 398 lb-ft @ 1850 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic