2026 BMW 5 Series Model Review with Prices, Photos, & Specs

About the BMW 5 Series

Both sophisticated and poised, the BMW 5 Series remains the premier executive sedan for the driver who likes to take charge. Equal parts timeless yet thoroughly modern, the 5 Series remains dedicated to uncompromising driving dynamics and precision handling. Optional xDrive all-wheel drive delivers superior performance across the entire spectrum of weather conditions. For the first time ever, there is an all-electric version of the 5 Series as well. Dubbed the i5 (which we have reviewed separately), this all-electric version looks and feels like a 5 Series but comes with a powerful and cutting-edge electric drivetrain.

Whether you’re on the road for business or pleasure, you’ll have access to an array of groundbreaking technology features to keep you connected and informed thanks to the standard BMW iDrive 8.5 operating system. A collection of groundbreaking driver-assistive safety features deliver greater confidence on the roadways. A spacious and tech-forward interior keeps you comfortable for your journey and the confident yet sleek exterior styling helps the BMW 5 Series stand out from your typical midsize luxury sedan.

What the Critics Say

How comfortable is the 5 Series? The 5 Series excels at comfort. Even with our test car’s optional sport suspension and 21-inch wheels, the ride remained compliant and composed at all speeds. The front seats are supportive and can keep you comfortable for hours on end. Adding to the comfort of the 5 Series are its low noise levels.” – Edmunds

We’ve always admired and enjoyed the way BMW’s cars manage to combine an engaging driving experience with refinement and suppleness. The 5 Series is enhanced even further by subtle braking to individual wheels for greater effectiveness through quick corners. Overall, the 5 Series is wonderfully pleasant to drive.” – Kelley Blue Book

What’s New for 2026

Back after a major redesign two years prior, only slight updates have been made to the proven BMW 5 Series model range for the 2026 model year. Perhaps the biggest news is the improvements that have been made to the 550e PHEV variant. These models benefit from an improved AC charging rate of 11 kW, up from 7.4 kW on last year’s model. Buyers can now opt for a new Frozen Portimao Blue metallic exterior color and Dark Violet and Taupe leather upholstery inside the cabin of the BMW 5 Series for 2026.

BMW 5 Series Features

Inspired Performance

The BMW 5 Series has long been considered one of the all-time great sport sedans, a sublime combination of power and handling that makes time spent behind the wheel a joy. The 530i is powered by a 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to advanced turbocharging technology, torque peaks from 1,600 rpm and stays flat all the way up to 4,500 rpm, making the 5 Series feel nimble and responsive. This is helped by the 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission with Sport and Manual shift modes which comes with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and Launch Control, something mostly found on supercars. The 530i comes with standard rear-wheel drive, with xDrive all-wheel drive available as an option. For those craving more muscle, upgrade to the 540i to receive a potent 375-horsepower 3.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder. Sitting atop the range is the innovative 550e and its sophisticated 483-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Advanced Safety & Convenience Features

Simplifying some of life’s challenges and keeping you prepared for the unexpected are two core strengths of the BMW 5 Series. The standard Parking Assistant lets you take the stress out of parking and helps you squeeze your 5 Series into a tight space. Advanced Vehicle & Key Memory allows the vehicle to remember important settings ranging from climate preferences to infotainment presets, configurable for multiple drivers. BMW Assist eCall™ includes Emergency Request (SOS button) and Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification for help when you need it the most. Included with Active Driving Assistant are an array of cutting-edge safety innovations. Examples include Daytime Pedestrian Protection, Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Trims & Specs

530i

• Starting at $58,700 MSRP*
• 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder
• Veganza upholstery or available Extended Merino Leather
• BMW Remote Services including Stolen Vehicle Recovery, Remote Door Unlock, BMW Connected App, and Concierge Services
• Curved Display with 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 14.9-inch central information display, and multi-input iDrive 8.5
• Available Sky Lounge Roof

530i xDrive

• Starting at $61,000 MSRP*
• xDrive all-wheel drive system
• Black Perforated and Quilted Veganza Upholstery
• Advanced Vehicle & Key Memory
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Harman Kardon Premium Sound System

540i xDrive

• Starting at $65,800 MSRP*
• 3.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder
• Interaction Bar with Ambient Lighting
• Connected Package Professional features Real-Time Traffic Information and On-Street Parking Information
• Wireless Device Charging
• Dynamic Cruise Control

550e xDrive

• Starting at $73,400 MSRP*
• 483-HP Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain with Brake Energy Regeneration
• M Sport suspension
• M Sport Brakes with Blue Calipers
• Power front sport seats including 2-way power side bolsters
• Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof

*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for vehicle as shown does not necessarily represent the dealer’s actual sale price and does not include tax, title, license, registration and adjusted market value. Dealer sets actual price. Please consult your selected dealer.