2006 BMW 525Xi/550i
Short review of 2006 BMW 525Xi/550i
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Price as tested: CDN$ 66700 (525Xi) CDN$93500 (550i)
For 2006, BMW not only added 530Xi Touring sportswagon and V10 M5 into the 5-Series range. They also added X-Drive into entry-level 525i and replaced the 545i with 550i.
The horsepower jumps to 360 from 325, while torque increases from 330 lb/ft to 360 lb/ft, respectively, in this 4.8L V8 engine. As expected, power and refinement have never been an issue with BMW V8 powerplants. As for the 2.5L straight-6 in 525Xi. This 215 hp and 185 lb/ft of torque 2.5L just too much for 525Xi’s 1560 kg body. It just too heavy for 215hp. If you are going with X-Drive 5-Series, better pay the extra dough for the 530Xi.
On the other hand, BMW is finally smart enough to seperate that artificial Active Steering option from the M sports package. In the past, you have to get Active Steering with M sports package in 530i and 545i. No more for 2006. This alone finally given back the feedback and control of what a BMW should be. Although, in terms of precision and poise, E60 still lack the edge set by its exceptional predecessor. It has gone a long way above the 5-Series with Active Steering.
Both the 525Xi and 550i represent”neither/nor” in 5-Series model range. Neither the 525Xi is underpowered nor 550i is way too expensive. 3.0L straight-6 remains the best choice in the 5-Series range, regardless of AWD or RWD.
Overall ratings: 2.5/5 (525Xi) 3.75/5 (550i)