2006 BMW 525i
Short review of 2006 BMW 525i
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Price as tested: CDN$62690
With the introduction of entry-level 525i, BMW has lowered the admission to 5-Series. The latest iteration of 525i uses the same magnesium-made 3.0L straight 6 Double VANOS DOHC engine as new 325i. Considered 525i’s weight is at a high 1565 kg with its 215 ponies and 185 lb/ft of torque, dare I say adequate performance. Although the 6-speed Steptronic is nicely ratio and have responsive shifting characteristics, its still can’t compensate for the weight. The best description for its performance is rather leisulely. In terms of seat-of-a-pants feel, its about identical to the not-so-stealler E46 320i with 2.2L straight 6.
Thankfully, our tester doesn’t come with Active Steering. The transition through turns are more natural with better driver feedback. Its more of a consistent BMW steering feel which is supposed to be. There are slight amount of body rolls but everything else is very well-tempted.
Interior still not very much my liking with overcomplicated i-Drive and cost-cutting materials. BMW really has sharpened their pencil by cutting interior quality in order to lower the price of 525i, although it doesn’t feel much difference as in more expensive 545i.
Despite of my criticisms, there are still lots to going for in this entry-level 5-Series. A proven straight 6 powerplant, stiff chassis and handles decently. If you are shopping for a 525i, you should look closely at 330i before making the final decision. That car could sway you away with better of everything despite its smaller size.
Overall rating: 2.5/5