The BMW 5-Series may not be quite as athletic as past generations. But it is still a potent, spacious, and well-equipped luxury car. The BMW 5-Series includes four powertrains.
First, they have a powerful twin-turbo V-8 BMW M550i with 523 horsepower. Also available is a plug-in four-cylinder hybrid with a combined 288 horsepower. The BMW 550i powers from 0-60 in 3.6 seconds and the 530i in 5.2 seconds.
Road trips and long commutes are light work with a comfortable and relaxed interior. The interior seating includes power massaging seats. Long drives are shorter with advanced technological features.
One of the features is the advanced optional Hand Gesture Control system. This system controls cabin electronics with hand gestures. The interior is luxurious and comfortable with many options, including the massaging seats.
The BMW 5-Series is still a power player in the luxury car market. Yet there are some worthy contenders. They include the Mercedes-Benz E-class, Genesis G80, and the Audie A6.
These vehicles provide competitive performance as compared to the BMW 5-Series. And they are comparable to the 5-Series’ $55,195 – $77,795 price range.
Alternative Vehicles for BMW 5-Series
1. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class of luxury cars is a formidable competitor to the BMW 5-Series. The E-Class places a premium on a comfortable and rewarding drive. The cozy cabin has many high-quality luxury appointments.
In addition, the cutting-edge interior has a host of high-tech features. The interior includes dual displays, massaging front seats, and a heads-up display.
The Mercedes-Benz E350 comes standard with a turbo-four. The E450 has a 392-horsepower, turbocharged inline-six boosted with a 48-volt electric motor.
- 0-60 Time: 4.7 seconds (E450)
- Pricing: $56,000 – $73,950
- Mileage (Highway): 30 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas/Hybrid
2. Genesis G80
The Genesis G80 has a stylish exterior and luxurious interior. It is an affordable luxury brand that competes with the BMW 5-Series.
The design, build quality, and luxury appointments place the G80 in the luxury car segment. In addition, the Genesis G80 has high-end electronics and a quality build at an affordable price.
The standard 300 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine reaches 0-60 in 5.7 seconds. The more potent twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 375 horsepower 0-60 times in 4.9 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 5.7 seconds
- Pricing: $49,345 – $70,795
- Mileage (Highway): 32 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
3. Audi A6
A luxury sedan with famous Audi features, including high-end luxury and advanced technology. The Audi A6 competes very well with the BMW 5-Series. The Audi A6 has plentiful, premium luxury features with many hi-tech features.
In addition, Audi is renowned for its excellent European build quality. The Audi A6 focuses on providing a comfortable ride and superior performance.
The standard trim has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive. Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the A6 produces 261 horsepower. 0-60 time is reached in 4.8 seconds. Also, an optional 3.0-liter V-6 with 335 horsepower reaches 0-60 in 4.5 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 4.8 seconds
- Pricing: $56,995 – $70,595
- Mileage (Highway): 32 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
4. Cadillac CT5
The Cadillac CT5 has an exciting sports-styled exterior. The exterior pairs well with the high-performance power train options.
Unfortunately, the cabin’s interior build quality is not quite up to BMW’s. Nevertheless, the Cadillac badge for the CT5 is an attractive alternative to the BMW 5-Series.
The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 237 HP. There is an option to upgrade to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 with 335 HP. And the CT5 Performance model has 360 HP. The 237 HP standard engine reaches 0-60 in 6.6 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 6.6 seconds
- Pricing: $38,440 – $51,240
- Mileage (highway): 27 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
Related: Different Cars Similar to the Cadillac XT5
5. Volvo S90
The Volvo S90 is a luxury vehicle with a comfortable and pleasing ride. The S90 builds upon the Scandinavian notion of comfort. The cabin design is for relaxing comfort instead of the sportiness of the BMW 5-Series.
With the supercharged inline four-cylinder engine, the Volvo S90 produces 316 HP. It reaches 0-60 in 5.9 seconds. The S0 is also available with the hybrid B6 powertrain. This powertrain uses a gasoline engine and electric motors, and the AWD model creates 295 HP.
- 0-60 Time: 5.9 seconds
- Pricing: $59,595 – $69,140
- Mileage (highway): 32 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
6. Jaguar XF
With a storied pedigree, the Jaguar XF positions well as a competitor to the BMW 5-Series. Also, the Jaguar XF provides an inexpensive four-cylinder engine.
Moreover, there are many high-tech features, besides excellent road handling and a luxurious interior. Moreover, the luxurious Jaguar XF has affordable entry-level pricing.
The XF 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine includes the P250 and P300 trims. The P250 trim produces 246 HP, and the P300 generates 296 HP and drives the XF from 0-60 in 6.2 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 6.2 seconds
- Pricing: $46,450 – $52,150
- Mileage (highway): 30 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
7. Lexus GS
This refined, mid-size luxury sedan from Lexus is an alternative to the BMW 5-Series. Roomy with a large trunk, the Lexus GS has plenty of standard features. These features include the latest driver-assist technologies.
In addition, the premium Lexus GS sedan has a comfortable performance as a commuting car. Choose the F Sport model with sport-tuned suspension for more adventurous driving.
The all-wheel-drive model’s base level has a 3.5-liter V-6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 0-60 in 5.8 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 5.8seconds
- Pricing: $52,090- $55,530
- Mileage (highway): 28 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
8. Acura TLX
The Acura TLX has a well-appointed cabin with attractive pricing. The TLX is an attractive alternative to the BMW 5-Series. The cabin has impressive finishes, including open-pore wood treatments and natural aluminum finishes.
The interior is available with a heads-up display and ambient lighting. In addition, the cabin has extensive high-quality build finishes.
The base TLX has a 272-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The engine is coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Type-S Acura TLX boasts a 355 horsepower turbo 3.0-liter V-6. When mated with a tuned sports suspension, the TLX pegs 0-60 in 5.1 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 5.1 seconds
- Pricing: $40,000- $58,000
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
9. Tesla Model S Electric Vehicle (EV)
The Tesla Model S electric vehicle (EV) helped usher in the wave of high-performance EVs. However, Tesla is still a compelling option compared to the BMW 5-Series. The Model S has an industry-leading driving range of 412 miles.
Carrying luggage is not a problem with spacious storage compartments, including two trunks. With semi-autonomous driving capability, the Tesla Model S is a formidable competitor.
The minimalistic interior is of high quality, including a technophile playground. However, it is not as plush as other competitors, including the BMW5-Series. Yet, the Model S is more about performance, and this is the area where it stands out.
The all-wheel-drive Tesla Model S has outstanding performance with engines on each wheel. For example, the Model S can achieve 0-60 in 2.4seconds, and the Plaid model with 1,020 horsepower hits 60 in 2.1 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 2.1 seconds (Plaid Model)
- Pricing: $106,440 – $137,440
- Mileage (electric mileage/range): 96 MPG/396 miles
- Passengers: 4
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Electric
Related: Cars similar to the Tesla Model 3 | Tesla Model 3 vs. Model Y
10. Infiniti Q60
Attractive styling of the Infiniti Q60 positions it as an alternative to the BMW 5-Series. It does not quite match up in performance with the BMW 5-Series. But it does represent a great value proposition once investigating the Q60 further.
The Q60 twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 produces 300 HP or with the optional Red Sport engine at 400 HP. The Q60 is standard with rear-wheel drive with an all-wheel-drive option. The 400 HP model powers from 0-60 in 4.5 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 5.6 seconds
- Pricing: $42,7755 – $59,225
- Mileage (highway): 27 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
11. Maserati Ghibli Trofeo
The Maserati Ghibli Trofeo price is at the high end of high-performance luxury cars. Even so, consider an alternative to the BMW 5-Series.
The Ghibli has eye-catching Italian styling with matching performance and an exhilarating ride. But, a much higher price point but not quite the quality interior finish as others in the market segment.
One reason for the higher cost is that the Ghibli base model has a high-performance V-6. The base 3.0 liter twin-turbo V-6 produces 345 HP and various engine options up to 424 HP with 0-60 in 4.5 seconds.
The high-performance 3.8-liter V-8 engine has 580 HP and 0-60 in 3.7 seconds. The Maserati Ghibli is sold as a rear-wheel or a V-6 all-wheel (Q4 model) drive vehicle.
- 0-60 Time: 3.7 seconds
- Pricing: $77,695 – $115,795
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
12. Lincoln Zephyr
The Lincoln brand continues with the new Lincoln Zephyr. The legendary nameplate, first introduced in 1935, is being resurrected in 2022.
The upscale Zephyr has a luxurious cabin loaded with many high-tech features. The Zephyr should be a direct competitor to the BMW 5-Series.
The base Zephyr will use a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with three engine choices. The base engine produces 245 HP and, with a hybrid option, has 188 HP with improved mileage. The last option will be a 3.0-liter v-6 engine with 350 HP and an AWD version for 400 HP 0-60 times in 6.8 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 6.8 seconds
- Pricing: $40,000 – $50,000
- Mileage (highway): 39 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas/Hybrid
13. Alfa Romeo Giulia
The Alfa Romeo Giulia is another competitor to the BMW 5-Series, with gorgeous styling and a driver-focused interior. The Giulia ride is an exhilarating experience. Giulia’s eye-catching design rewards the driver with an exciting driving experience.
The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 280 HP. The engine powers either a rear-wheel or all-wheel configuration. The Guilia can reach 0-60 in 5.5 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 5.5 seconds
- Pricing: $38,570 – $44,945 – $50,185
- Mileage (highway): 33 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
14. Audi A4
Another alternative to the BMW 5-Series is the Audi A4. The A4 has a classic European tailored design that looks expensive and conservative. The driving of the A4 is an equal measure of agility and balanced luxury.
The interior is of high-quality materials expected from an Audi. The interior is roomy and comfortable, with a dashboard that has a modern, simplistic look.
The Audi A4 uses a 2.0-lite four-cylinder engine paired with a 12-volt hybrid system. The dependable Quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes the power.
The A4 40 model generates 201 horsepower, and the 45 model creates 261. The seven-speed automatic transmission propels the A4 model 45 from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 4.8 seconds
- Pricing: $40,995 – $51,995
- Mileage (highway): 34 MPG
- Passengers: 5
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Hybrid
15. Mercedes-AMG E53
Featuring luxury and sportiness, the Mercedes-AMG53 is an alternative to the BMW 5-Series. Boasting an eye-catching design with a well-equipped cabin, the E53 is a pleasure to drive. The all-wheel-drive E53 is quick with a smooth ride during all the different seasons.
The interior is spacious with quality materials and many options. These options include massaging seats, fragrance atomizers, and exotic woods.
The AMG 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine has a supercharger and turbocharger. This tuned engine produces 429 horsepower and drives a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The E53 attains 0-60 times in 3.9 seconds.
- 0-60 Time: 3.9 seconds
- Pricing: $76,050 – $84,950
- Mileage (highway): 28 MPG
- Passengers: 4
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
16. Porsche Panamera
Porsche’s fun-driving attitude continues with the Porsche Panamera. Except, in this case, driving excitement in a four-door vehicle. The Porsche Panamera may be at the higher end of pricing, but it is a worthy competitor to the BMW 5-Series.
The family and kids travel in a premium cabin designed with spacious cargo. The fastback roofline gives the Panamera a racy and sleek look. The driver-focused cabin is luxurious and reflects Panamera’s price with cutting-edge technology.
The Panamera is exhilarating to drive, with a smooth ride and precise handling. Add the optional air ride suspension for more driver excitement. The base Panamera, all-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive, uses a 2.9-liter, 325 horsepower V-6.
The Panamera 4S model produces 440 horsepower with the 2.9 liter V-6 and reaches 0-60 in 3.6 seconds. The 4 E-Hybrid model has a 455 horsepower powertrain. There is even a more powerful 552 horsepower 4S-E-Hybrid model.
- 0-60 Time: 3.6 seconds
- Pricing: $89,750 – $132,050
- Mileage (highway): 24 MPG
- Passengers: 4
- Gas/Hybrid/Electric: Gas
BMW 5-Series Frequently Asked Questions
These are some frequently asked questions about the BW 5-Series.
What are safety features available in the BMW 5-Series?
The top-level trim BMW 5-Series has a 5 Star safety rating with many safety features. The safety features include:
- Overspeed Warning
- 7 Airbags, a Children’s Lock,
- Anchor Points for children’s seats
- Anti Theft Engine Immobilizer
- Speed Sensing Door Locks.
How many colors are available in the BMW 5-Series?
The BMW 5-Series has five primary colors:
- Bluestone Metallic
- Carbon Black Metallic
- Black Sapphire Metallic
- Alpine White
- Phytonic Blue Metallic.
What are the Pros and Cons of the BMW 5-Series?
Pros
- The handling is dynamic and performance-oriented.
- The interior is elegant and luxurious
- Many advanced safety features
- A good amount of storage space
Cons
- Expensive to repair
- Optional accessories are expensive
- Some airbags may fail to deploy
What is the top speed of BMW 5-Series cars?
All the BMW 5-Series automobiles are around 130 MPH. But specific high-performance models, such as the BMW M550i, can reach 155 MPH.
Is BMW 5-Series maintenance expensive?
Yes. The ride and control of the BMW 5-Series are due to German-engineered and built components. The high performance of the 5-Series depends on the quality of the parts. So, replacing or repairing them is not without extra costs. You can expect the first ten years of BMW 5-Series service costs to be around $13,500.
Is the BMW 5-Series a good investment?
Like most new cars, a new BMW 5-Series will depreciate anywhere from 45%-70% in five years. This can depend upon the model and other factors, but is a good rule of thumb. The average 52.6% depreciation rate is 1.5 times higher than average.
Also, a three-year-old BMW 5-Series is rated as a Best Bargain for three-year-old cars. Which has to say something about the build quality of the BMW 5-Series.