2004 BMW 5 Series New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2004 BMW 5-Series?
For 2004, the BMW 5-Series is completely redesigned. Long the benchmark of the mid-luxury sedan class for its perfect blend of performance, understated elegance and upscale accoutrements, the new BMW 5-Series stands poised to retain leadership while simultaneously pushing the envelope. As before, three models are available: 184-hp 525i, 220-hp 530i, and 325 hp 545i. Sport packages are available for each, and include BMW's revolutionary Active Steering system along with Active Roll Stabilization, run-flat performance tires, unique alloy wheels and other performance goodies. Buyers of the 2004 BMW 5-Series can select a manual or Steptronic automatic, each equipped with six forward gears. Notable options include active cruise control, a head-up display, bi-Xenon active headlights, and a rear seat DVD entertainment system. BMW's controversial iDrive controller resides atop the center console, but most primary controls can be accessed without mousing through this system's menus. Larger, roomier and equipped with more trunk space than before, the new BMW 5-Series incorporates aluminum extensively in the chassis, suspension and bodywork to keep weight down and structural rigidity up.

Advantages of the 2004 BMW 5-Series:

• Superb comfort
• Lush cabin materials
• Impressive performance
• Fascinating Active Steering system

Objections to the 2004 BMW 5-Series:

• Fussy iDrive control system
• Prices rise dramatically when desirable options are added

Editor's Advice:
If the new styling pleases you, so will the rest of the 2004 BMW 5-Series. This is a fantastic luxury sports sedan, and remains the benchmark against which others must be measured. If you don't mind the penalty of diminished ride quality, opt for the Sport package, which includes Active Steering and Active Roll Stabilization. Once you live with these two technologies, you'll wonder if you could ever buy another car without them.