2004 BMW 525

Vehicle Overview

A new fifth generation of BMW’s midsize 5 Series sedan arrives for the 2004 model year. It has grown a bit in size and presents a fresh but familiar “new look.” Mounted on a wheelbase that’s 2.3 inches longer than its predecessor, the rear-wheel-drive 525i is 2.6 inches longer overall, 1.8 inches wider and 1.3 inches taller. Space in the rear has increased, and the automaker says that entry into the backseat is easier. Trunk capacity has grown by 26 percent. A new, weight-saving, all-aluminum front-end structure is used.

Three 5 Series models are available. The 525i is equipped with a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine; the 530i gets a 3.0-liter six-cylinder; and the 545i is powered by a 4.4-liter V-8. The inline-six-cylinder engines were used in the prior 5 Series generation, but the V-8 is larger than before. Three six-speed transmission choices are offered: manual, Steptronic automatic and a Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). BMW says the new six-speed-manual gearbox works with a sportier shift action by using shorter throws for a more satisfying feel.

BMW offers quite an array of either standard or optional equipment, which includes Active Roll Stabilization, Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Adaptive brake lights, run-flat tires, an evolved iDrive control system, a head-up display, Active Cruise Control and Active Steering.

Exterior
The styling of the 525i follows on the heels of the company’s controversial 7 Series but appears to be more subtle — and, therefore, perhaps less subject to criticism. The 525i’s short overhangs and what BMW calls “lean-forward dynamics” highlight the design. Though the basic concept is considered to be traditional, BMW says the design language is all new and consistent with other recently introduced models that feature ultraclean bodysides.

A prominent twin kidney grille provides a connection to BMW tradition. Surrounded by painted surfaces, the grille is flanked by quad headlights inside luminous rings and beneath clear covers. Deeply wrapped lighting units are present in the front and rear. The turn signals have clear lenses. Amber LED front parking lights are thin and wedge shaped. The bodies incorporate BMW’s traditional reverse kink at the rear door windows. The contemporary rear end features a high trunk lid.

Adaptive brake lights are standard. A full aluminum suspension is installed, and all models have rack-and-pinion steering. Active Steering is included in the Sport Package. The brakes on each 5 Series model have been upsized, and ventilated discs are installed all around. Standard tires measure 16 inches in diameter, and 17-inch run-flat performance tires are included in the Sport Package.

Interior
Five people fit inside the 525i sedan. Backseat passengers have 1.3 inches more shoulder room and 1.8 inches of additional legroom than that of the previous model. Leatherette upholstery and titanium-finish trim are standard, but leather upholstery with wood trim is available. Both front occupants get 10-way power seat adjustment with a memory feature.

A “double wave” theme is used for the dashboard. The tachometer now incorporates a variable warning segment that activates at lower rpm when the engine is cold. A three-spoke steering wheel holds multifunction controls. Rain-sensing wipers and a 10-speaker stereo with a CD player and twin subwoofers are standard.

First installed in the 7 Series, a simplified iDrive control system uses a 6.5-inch color display screen. Either the driver or the front passenger can use a knob atop the console; a new Menu button is featured there. When a navigation system is installed, additional iDrive functions are provided. One year’s service for the BMW Assist Program is provided with all 5 Series models.

Under the Hood
The 525i’s 2.5-liter dual-overhead-cam inline-six-cylinder engine develops 184 hp and 175 pounds-feet of torque. A 525i equipped with the standard six-speed-manual gearbox can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, while the six-speed Steptronic automatic requires 8.2 seconds. The automatic unit incorporates Manual and Sport modes.

A six-speed SMG will also be available in combination with a Sport Package. Shifted electrohydraulically, the SMG unit incorporates an automatic clutch. Gear changes may be specified using a console-mounted lever or twin paddles on the steering wheel. A Sport button is provided. BMW’s engines meet ULEV-II (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards.

Safety
Integrated Advanced Head Protection is standard. All models have a flat-tire monitor. Dynamic Stability Control, which is activated with a console switch, can improve traction under difficult conditions. Active Roll Stabilization is offered as an option as part of the Sport Package, and this technology yields flatter cornering. Active Head Restraints are also available.