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2003
BMW 525

Starts at:
$37,600
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New 2003 BMW 525
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 525iA 4dr Sdn 5-Spd Auto
    Starts at
    $37,600
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 525i 4dr Sdn 5-Spd Manual
    Starts at
    $37,600
    20 City / 29 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 525iT 4dr Sport Wgn 5-Spd Manual
    Starts at
    $39,300
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 525iTA 4dr Sport Wgn 5-Spd Auto
    Starts at
    $39,300
    19 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525 2003 BMW 525

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Expert 2003 BMW 525 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Cars.com editors
Full article
our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
BMW’s midlevel rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 525 sedan and wagon, which fit between the smaller 3 Series models and the flagship 7 Series cars, get several modifications for the 2003 model year. A moonroof is now standard on the base-model 525i, which holds a 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine. BMW’s Head Protection System for rear passengers has been added, and the available navigation system switches to DVD-based operation.

A rain sensor is now included with the optional Premium Package. The German automaker also offers a 530i sedan with a larger six-cylinder engine, as well as a 540i sedan with V-8 power and a high-performance M5 sedan.

BMW’s midlevel six-cylinder 525 sport wagon competes primarily against other European-brand luxury wagons from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Saab and Volvo. The German automaker also offers a 540 wagon with V-8 power but no equivalent to the 530i sedan. Unlike BMW’s 325xi wagon, which has the option of all-wheel drive, the 5 Series is rear-wheel drive only.

A moonroof is now standard on the base-model 525i wagon, which holds a 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine. BMW’s Head Protection System for the rear passengers has been added, and the available navigation system switches to DVD-based operation. Rain-sensing wipers are now included with the optional Premium Package.

Exterior
Riding a 111.4-inch wheelbase, the 525i falls into the compact category according to interior-volume standards by the Environmental Protection Agency, but cars.com considers it a midsize model. At 188 inches long overall, the 525i is a little shorter than the Lexus GS 300. In appearance, the 5 Series sedans closely resemble their smaller and larger counterparts, all of which sport BMW’s familiar twin-kidney grille.

From the front doors forward, the wagon’s styling is identical to BMW’s 5 Series sedans. Its overall appearance also resembles the smaller 3 Series and larger 7 Series, including the familiar twin-kidney grille. Even though the 525i is often considered a midsize model, it falls into the compact category according to interior-volume standards by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Fog lights and cross-spoke 16-inch wheels are standard. Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights are optional. A Sport Package for the 525i wagon includes a sport suspension, sport-style seats and 17-inch tires on star-spoke wheels.

Interior
Seating for five occupants is standard on all 5 series models. The front bucket seats have 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Standard equipment on all models includes remote keyless entry, a 10-speaker audio system with a CD player, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, heated power mirrors and an alarm. Leather upholstery is optional. Sedans can be equipped with an optional split, folding rear seatback.

The wagons include a split, folding rear seat and a retractable rear cargo cover. The powered front bucket seats have a 10-way adjustment, and they feature standard leatherette upholstery; leather is offered as an option. The 525 wagon also includes dual-zone automatic air conditioning, heated power mirrors with a memory feature, a CD stereo, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, an alarm, and a central locking system that can lock the doors and close the windows via remote control.

Cargo volume behind the rear seat totals 32.7 cubic feet, but folding the backseat increases space to 65.2 cubic feet. BMW’s navigation system is optional, and Sport and Premium option groups are offered.

Under the Hood
The 525i uses a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, which teams with either a five-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. All 5 Series models are RWD only, unlike the smaller 3 Series, which offers all-wheel drive as an option.

The automatic gearbox in the 525i wagon incorporates a Steptronic mode that permits manually selected gear changes by tipping the shift lever fore and aft.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags deploy according to crash severity and whether occupants are buckled up. Side-impact airbags for the front seats and BMW’s Head Protection System — which consists of curtain-type airbags that deploy to protect front-seat occupants — are standard on all series models. Side-impact airbags are optional for the rear seats. Safety features include antilock brakes, traction control and BMW’s electronic stability system, called Dynamic Stability Control. The optional Park Distance Control detects obstacles to the front and rear of the car while parking.

Driving Impressions
BMW mixes big doses of both sport and luxury in all 5 Series models, starting with the 525i. Drivers can expect the precise maneuverability and control of a smaller 3 Series sedan, coupled with quite a few luxuries. The suspensions are undeniably firm, but ride comfort remains pleasant over most pavement surfaces.

Performance is reasonably energetic even with the 2.5-liter inline-six. BMW appears to strive for symmetry in each of its models, so the dashboard and its easy-to-read gauges look about the same, regardless of the size of the sedan. The ride and handling qualities differ little between the 5 Series sedans and wagons. Even with its inline-six-cylinder engine, the 525i wagon’s performance is reasonably energetic.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2003 Buying Guide
Posted on 12/18/02

2003 BMW 525 review: Our expert's take

Vehicle Overview
BMW’s midlevel rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 525 sedan and wagon, which fit between the smaller 3 Series models and the flagship 7 Series cars, get several modifications for the 2003 model year. A moonroof is now standard on the base-model 525i, which holds a 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine. BMW’s Head Protection System for rear passengers has been added, and the available navigation system switches to DVD-based operation.

A rain sensor is now included with the optional Premium Package. The German automaker also offers a 530i sedan with a larger six-cylinder engine, as well as a 540i sedan with V-8 power and a high-performance M5 sedan.

BMW’s midlevel six-cylinder 525 sport wagon competes primarily against other European-brand luxury wagons from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Saab and Volvo. The German automaker also offers a 540 wagon with V-8 power but no equivalent to the 530i sedan. Unlike BMW’s 325xi wagon, which has the option of all-wheel drive, the 5 Series is rear-wheel drive only.

A moonroof is now standard on the base-model 525i wagon, which holds a 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine. BMW’s Head Protection System for the rear passengers has been added, and the available navigation system switches to DVD-based operation. Rain-sensing wipers are now included with the optional Premium Package.

Exterior
Riding a 111.4-inch wheelbase, the 525i falls into the compact category according to interior-volume standards by the Environmental Protection Agency, but cars.com considers it a midsize model. At 188 inches long overall, the 525i is a little shorter than the Lexus GS 300. In appearance, the 5 Series sedans closely resemble their smaller and larger counterparts, all of which sport BMW’s familiar twin-kidney grille.

From the front doors forward, the wagon’s styling is identical to BMW’s 5 Series sedans. Its overall appearance also resembles the smaller 3 Series and larger 7 Series, including the familiar twin-kidney grille. Even though the 525i is often considered a midsize model, it falls into the compact category according to interior-volume standards by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Fog lights and cross-spoke 16-inch wheels are standard. Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights are optional. A Sport Package for the 525i wagon includes a sport suspension, sport-style seats and 17-inch tires on star-spoke wheels.

Interior
Seating for five occupants is standard on all 5 series models. The front bucket seats have 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Standard equipment on all models includes remote keyless entry, a 10-speaker audio system with a CD player, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, heated power mirrors and an alarm. Leather upholstery is optional. Sedans can be equipped with an optional split, folding rear seatback.

The wagons include a split, folding rear seat and a retractable rear cargo cover. The powered front bucket seats have a 10-way adjustment, and they feature standard leatherette upholstery; leather is offered as an option. The 525 wagon also includes dual-zone automatic air conditioning, heated power mirrors with a memory feature, a CD stereo, a power tilt/telescoping steering column, an alarm, and a central locking system that can lock the doors and close the windows via remote control.

Cargo volume behind the rear seat totals 32.7 cubic feet, but folding the backseat increases space to 65.2 cubic feet. BMW’s navigation system is optional, and Sport and Premium option groups are offered.

Under the Hood
The 525i uses a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-six-cylinder engine, which teams with either a five-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. All 5 Series models are RWD only, unlike the smaller 3 Series, which offers all-wheel drive as an option.

The automatic gearbox in the 525i wagon incorporates a Steptronic mode that permits manually selected gear changes by tipping the shift lever fore and aft.

Safety
Dual-stage front airbags deploy according to crash severity and whether occupants are buckled up. Side-impact airbags for the front seats and BMW’s Head Protection System — which consists of curtain-type airbags that deploy to protect front-seat occupants — are standard on all series models. Side-impact airbags are optional for the rear seats. Safety features include antilock brakes, traction control and BMW’s electronic stability system, called Dynamic Stability Control. The optional Park Distance Control detects obstacles to the front and rear of the car while parking.

Driving Impressions
BMW mixes big doses of both sport and luxury in all 5 Series models, starting with the 525i. Drivers can expect the precise maneuverability and control of a smaller 3 Series sedan, coupled with quite a few luxuries. The suspensions are undeniably firm, but ride comfort remains pleasant over most pavement surfaces.

Performance is reasonably energetic even with the 2.5-liter inline-six. BMW appears to strive for symmetry in each of its models, so the dashboard and its easy-to-read gauges look about the same, regardless of the size of the sedan. The ride and handling qualities differ little between the 5 Series sedans and wagons. Even with its inline-six-cylinder engine, the 525i wagon’s performance is reasonably energetic.

 

Reported by Jim Flammang  for cars.com
From the cars.com 2003 Buying Guide
Posted on 12/18/02

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
6 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Certified Pre-Owned Elite with less than 15,000 miles; Certified Pre-Owned with less than 60,000 miles
Basic
1 year / unlimited miles from expiration of 4-year / 50,000-mile new car warranty
Dealer certification
196-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.6 / 5
Based on 18 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.7
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.8
Value 4.5
Exterior 4.8
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • spacious, comfortable, stylish, well-appointed

    Good power, reasonable on gas, and an absolute joy to drive. Not a car who view automobiles as mere "transportation", but a car for those who truly enjoy driving. That said, either be good with tools or have money for maintenance. BMWs tend to require parts to be serviced or replaced far more often than your standard Toyota.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most reliable car I have owned

    This car is extremely reliable and was always very comfortable. I owned for a couple of years and never had a problem with the car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Handles great but pricey

    I love the car, it drives great and handles really good. Very smooth on the highway. Things just break easy and takes money to replace a lot of parts
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • A beautiful workhorse!

    It?s got it all! We have beauty, performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. This is, in-fact, the best car I?ve owned in 40 years! My comments are honest and sincere.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • great car

    this car was very nice to drive it drove well with no problems i think that i would recomend thids car to any of my friends
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Smoothest ride I ever had!

    Best ride I have drove. The way it grips the road is so slick. Put new tires on and even better. BMW is sweet!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • This is a 5spees manual it's very reliable daily s

    I am 6 foot 250lbs has a lot of leg room in the front. In the back is tight if I am driving. Anytime I hop into the cockpit I get excited. This is an Automobile not a car
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Classic Quality

    It's been a wonderful car, the drive is predictable and confidence inspiring. The interior build quality is good and ages well. The engine is strong and gets great gas mileage.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great Deal

    I came in for an BMW 5 series and that's just what got ,process was real honestly great . I will tell all my family and friends about this dealership.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great car for the money

    I have this car for 170.000 miles , and i can tell its an espectacular machine, very reliable, looks good, and great handling not exatly a pure sports car for that purpose i have a porsche , but for 5 passengers and spirited driving Perfertc !!! get one and enjoy it, ah find a good mechanic repairs are rare but necesary.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 525i w Sport Pkg

    Love this car. I now have 130K on it; bought it with 50K. Repairs aren't cheap, but it doesn't need them often. Have the usual problems: window regulators break, VERY soft OEM wheels (despite the great handling, you can't avoid every pothole). Mileage is 25 mpg on the highway, despite my being an aggressive driver. Recently had a short spate of electrical issues due to the alternator deteriorating. Once it was fixed, all other electrical issues resolved. Note: I used a non-BMW roadside assistance service to replace my battery a few years ago. Turns out they installed a battery that wasn't exactly the right fit. These cars are designed with mechanical & electrical specifications which should be adhered to in order to avoid peripheral issues. That said, it's a luxurious ride and sporty enough when you want or need it to get out of it's own way.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • 525i Sport Pkg

    I absolutely loved this car. Only thing that would have made this car better is if there were room to sleep in it. It was a pleasure to drive and so very easy to maintain. Some of the expenses can get expensive, but having a good rapport with your local dealer was enough to manage this problem. If You have one and wish to get rid of it please feel free to give me a call.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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BMW dealers near you

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2003 BMW 525?

The 2003 BMW 525 is available in 4 trim levels:

  • 525i (1 style)
  • 525iA (1 style)
  • 525iT (1 style)
  • 525iTA (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2003 BMW 525?

The 2003 BMW 525 offers up to 20 MPG in city driving and 29 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2003 BMW 525?

The 2003 BMW 525 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2003 BMW 525 reliable?

The 2003 BMW 525 has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2003 BMW 525 owners.

Is the 2003 BMW 525 a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2003 BMW 525. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.6 / 5
Based on 18 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.7
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.8
  • Value: 4.5
  • Exterior: 4.8
  • Reliability: 4.6
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