BMW focused on reducing weight, adding technology, and reducing cabin noise in the redesigned 2017 5 Series. The result is remarkably satisfying car, but one that is no longer the sporty choice of this class. Instead, it's very plush, super quiet, finely crafted inside, frugal with fuel, and more user friendly. The all-wheel-drive 530i we tested rides comfortably and handles responsively. Its turbo four-cylinder had ample power and, paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic, delivered an impressive 26 mpg overall. The 540i uses a punchy 335-hp, 3.0-liter turbo six-cylinder that effortlessly delivers power. AWD is available, and standard on the V8-powered 550i. The 530e plug-in hybrid costs just $200 more than the 530i and can go a short distance on electric power alone. Optional active safety systems include forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist.

With the 2011 redesign, the 5 Series BMW grew larger and sacrificed a lot of its handling precision. Steering is vague and the car tends to understeer at its limits. However, fit and finish are still excellent, the engines remain powerful and refined, and the eight-speed automatic shifts smoothly. The cabin is also comfortable and roomy with excellent seats. The iDrive system has been somewhat simplified over the years, making it a bit more user-friendly. We think you won't be disappointed with the basic 528i, with or without all-wheel-drive. If you can afford it, the slick six-cylinder in the 535i is a worthy upgrade. Anything more strikes us as overkill. New four-cylinder, diesel, and hybrid variants debuted in 2012, 2013, and 2014 respectively.

Prior to the introduction of this model, the BMW 5 Series had been ranked as CR's best car tested for two years. While this edition of the car flaunts slightly improved fuel economy and more room for rear-seat passengers, some of the agility of the previous generation is gone. Further, many of our testers find the iDrive multifunction control system to be less than intuitive, which detracts from their overall impression of the car. With it, some of the more involved audio and climate functions are distracting, because you frequently need to shift your eyes between the road and the display. The instruments are clear however and most of the logically placed conventional controls are lighted at night. While we still like the car, we think less of it than we did before.

Most luxury cars aren't sporty, and most sporty cars aren't luxurious. BMW's excellent 5-Series--available in both sedan and wagon forms--manages to be both. These cars handle nimbly and ride very comfortably and quietly. The seats are exceptionally comfortable and supportive, and interior detailing is flawless. Braking is excellent, and traction- and stability-control systems help maintain directional stability on slippery roads. The 525i and 530i employ invigorating inline Sixes, while the 540i uses a punchy, refined V8. The automatic transmission is extremely smooth and responsive in all versions. The line-topping M5 is an ultra-high-performance model with a price to match.