BMW 5 Series Model Years and History

The BMW 5 Series is a carryover for 2026 with minimal changes including faster charging times for the PHEV trims and new standard features such as lane keeping assistant, and active park assistance control.

The 2025 BMW 5 Series builds upon the 2024 redesign with the addition of the 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid model to the lineup, and the introduction of new exterior color options.

The BMW 5-Series gets a redesign for 2024 while the M5 is dropped from the lineup.

For 2023, BMW 5-Series returns with minor changes while the M5 adds two new metallic paint colors San Remo Green and Skyscraper Grey.

For 2022, BMW 5-Series returns with minor changes while the M5 adds a new CS trim with more power.

For 2021, BMW 5-Series returns with minor changes including a refreshed exterior, larger touchscreen monitor and upgraded features.

The BMW 5 Series returns for 2020 with few significant updates. The 550i's N63 twin turbo 4.4L V8 engine now puts out 523 horsepower launching it to 60 mph from zero in just 3.6 seconds. A mid cycle facelift brings the vehicles exterior styling more in line with the recently released 3 and 8 series vehicles.

The BMW 5 Series returns for 2019 with a few minor updates and differences. In-car entertainment systems have been improved this year with the addition of Apple CarPlay, which now comes standard across all models. The service will allow owners to stream music and directions from Apple branded phones using the car's built-in screen, rather than the screen on their phone. On the safety front, a blind spot detection system is also now standard along with a forward collision warning system and a lane departure warning system.

The 5-Series gets number of additions on the heels of complete redesign last year. The Gran Turismo hatch is no longer offered while the lineup expands with the V8 M550i xDrive and 530e hybrid engine. The "e" name change signifies a new, more economical engine that utilizes a 4-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric powertrain.

The 5-Series gets a complete redesign for 2017. The 528i is gone, having been replaced by the 530i. The name change signifies a new, more powerful engine to motivate the car. Meanwhile the 540i's 6-cylinder engine has also been given a significant horsepower bump for 2017. Further adding to the car's speed and efficiency is a new lightweight chassis, which removes as much as 137 lbs from the car, benefitting acceleration, handling and fuel economy. Occupying BMW's middle rung, the 5-series has always tried to toe the line between being the perfect luxury sedan and the perfect sport sedan. With the 2017 model, BMW gets even closer to that goal, while still giving a nod to fuel economy and technology. Finally, the super-performing M5 takes the 2017 model year off, but is expected back for 2018.

Ahead of a 2017 redesign, the BWM 5-Series hits 2016 with only a few changes. Among them, the 550i adds a Harman Kardon stereo, satellite radio, and power trunk lid to its standard features list. All 5-Series models feature enhanced USB and Bluetooth, with mobile office capabilities (texts, email, calendar, tasks and voice memos), and sync for a second phone.

The BMW 5-series returns for 2015 mostly unchanged other than a few new standard features. These include a sportier, leather wrapped steering wheel, LED foglamps and improved Bluetooth integration.

For 2014, the BMW 5-Series receives minor exterior styling updates front and rear, including revised front fascia and headlight and taillight treatments. In the GT, the changes also include a restyled tailgate. A new diesel engine is available in the 535d -- a 3.0L twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder offering 256 hp and 413 ft-lb of torque. BMW claims the new powerplant delivers 36 mpg. Navigation is now standard in the 5-Series.

For 2013, 550i models get a new version of the 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 engine, making 445 horsepower and 480 pound feet of torque--that's 45 hp and 30 lb-ft more than last year. BMW 5-Series GT models now get engine stop-start, alongside the 5-Series sedans that received it last year, and the 5-Series vehicles get a new Eco Pro driving mode. 5-Series models otherwise get a new user-configurable 10.25-inch multi-function instrument display with Black Panel technology, as well as a new 'contactless' trunk opener, while a new Bang & Olufsen surround-sound system will be optional.

Following a significant redesign last year, the BMW 5-series enters 2012 largely unchanged, though the 528i replaces its inline-6 with a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder, which produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The unit is mated to an 8-speed automatic. BMW xDrive is also now available on the 528i.

For 2011, BMW's 5-series has been given a complete redesign. Now in its sixth generation, the car is slightly longer and wider, up by 2.3 inches and a half inch, respectively, while the car's styling is much more conservative than the previous generation. The engine lineup has been changed as well; the 535i's 3.0L 6-cylinder dropped to a single turbo but now makes 306 horsepower, and the 550i receives the 7-series' twin-turbo V8, which produces 407 horsepower. A 528i model, with a non-turbocharged version of the 3.0L six making 240 horsepower is expected later in the 2011 model year. All three can be had with a 6-speed manual, but an 8-speed automatic is also available.

For 2010, the BMW 5-Series remains largely unchanged. The Sport package on the 550i has been replaced with the M Sport package, which includes 19" double-spoke wheels, an "M" steering wheel and anthracite headliner.

For 2009, audio systems have been upgraded and can now accept devices via USB interface. Also, Sirius Satellite Radio is now included across the line, but a first-aid kit is no longer standard. Two new 17-inch wheel designs are being introduced.

For 2008, BMW's iconic 5-Series undergoes mostly minor changes, although new, more powerful 6-cylinder engines are significant improvements. 2007's 525 entry-level cars have been upgraded with a 3.0L 230-horsepower engine, changing the nomenclature to 528. The formerly-known-as-530 cars receive a 3.0L twin-turborcharged inline six that improves horsepower by 45 (300 total) and ups the badging to 535. Base prices increase modestly, between $400 and $1,900, depending on the vehicle. Only the 550i does not increase in price. Small changes to the exterior have been made, including a refresh of the headlight and taillight design. Inside, the center console is now leather-trimmed. iDrive has been enhanced with six programmable memory keys to improve usability. The automatic transmission has been upgraded and is now a no-cost option (in 2007, not shifting cost $1,275). The sequential manual gearbox (SMG) is no longer offered on the 535i and 550i--in its place, a sport six-speed automatic can be ordered. A lane departure warning system is optional, as is a high-beam assist function. The active cruise control now features "stop and go" capability, and there is a USB adapter for MP3 players. The Sport Package on the 528i adds 18-inch wheels and tires versus 2007's 17-inchers. On the M5, a heated steering wheel is available.

In 2006, BMW introduced new engines for the 5-Series, so BMW kept the 2007 model essentially the same. An auxiliary audio input is now standard, and new optional features include HD radio and BMW's night vision technology, which uses thermal imaging to "see" animals, people or other vehicles that may be beyond the car's headlights.