BMW 5 Series E60 525i (218 Hp) Steptronic


Overall Rating

7.3 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 4.5 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW 5 Series:

The BMW 5 Series is an executive car manufactured and marketed by BMW since 1972. It is the successor to the BMW New Class sedans and is currently in its eighth generation. The car is sold as either a sedan or, since 1991, a station wagon. A 5-door fastback was sold between 2009 and 2017. Each successive generation has been given an internal G-code designation since 2017. Previously, a F-code designation was used between 2010 and 2016, while an E-code designation was used between 1972 and 2010. These are used to distinguish each model and generation from each other....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E60 Overview:

BMW 5 Series (E60). With 250 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1480 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.8 s). The top speed reaches 242 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

525i (218 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Smooth and refined power delivery from the inline-six, offering good acceleration for an executive sedan with an automatic.

Fuel Economy

Moderate fuel consumption, typical for a petrol automatic in this segment, suitable for mixed driving.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving / Highway

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Dynamic handling and engaging driving experience across the range.
  • • Wide selection of powerful and efficient engines, particularly the diesels.
  • • High-quality interior materials and solid build quality.
  • • Distinctive and modern styling that still holds up today.
  • • Comfortable for long journeys with supportive seating.

Cons:

  • • Complex electronics (iDrive, various modules) can lead to costly repairs.
  • • Some engines (e.g., N62 V8, M57 diesel) have known reliability issues (valve stem seals, swirl flaps).
  • • Run-flat tires can compromise ride comfort and are expensive to replace.
  • • Maintenance costs can be high, especially for V8 models and complex repairs.
  • • Rear legroom is adequate but not class-leading compared to some rivals.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Touring (E61): 2004 - 2005).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:5 Series
Generation:E60
Modification (Engine):525i (218 Hp) Steptronic
Start of production:2005
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:218 Hp @ 6500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:87.3 Hp/l [2mm less]
Torque:250 Nm @ 2750 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:N52B25A More details about the engine N52B25A
Engine displacement:2497
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:6.5 l
Coolant:9.8 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:82 mm mm
Piston Stroke:78.8 mm mm
Compression ratio:11:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:13.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.8 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.8 sec
Maximum speed:242 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.8 kg/Hp, 147.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.9 kg/Nm, 168.9 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.4 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1480
Max. weight:2035
Max load:555
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:520 l
Fuel tank capacity:70 l
Size:
Length:4841 mm mm [2mm less]
Width:1846 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1468 mm mm [23mm less]
Wheelbase:2888 mm mm [2mm more]
Front track:1558 mm
Rear (Back) track:1582 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size225/55 R16
Wheel rims size7J x 16 LM
Front suspensionCoil spring
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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