CarGurus expert rating: 5 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.5 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 1,200
Average Price: Around £19,000

BMW 5 Series (2010-2016) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Exceptional all-round ability	Fairly firm ride on larger alloy wheels
Satisfying to drive and comfortable to travel in	Epic running costs of high-performance M5
The 520d hits the sweet spot for performance and economy	Not all models have split/folding rear seats

Quick Summary

The BMW 5 Series (2010-2016), known as the F10, is an executive saloon that comes remarkably close to being the perfect all-rounder. This sixth-generation model was on sale for six years with a minor facelift in 2013, offering exceptional refinement and rewarding driving dynamics. It provides ample space for driver and passengers, with a spacious rear and excellent boot capacity of 520 litres in the saloon or 560 litres in the Touring estate. The range of petrol and diesel engines delivers the rare combination of power and smoothness with impressive fuel efficiency and low emissions, whilst the eight-speed automatic gearbox is among the finest in the business.

The 520d diesel engine represents the sweet spot, achieving 60-65 mpg in real-world conditions, whilst even the more powerful 530d and 535d models should return around 50 mpg. Running costs are modest for a car of such quality, with some models attracting annual road tax as low as £30. Build quality and reliability meet BMW expectations, though run-flat tyres can be expensive to replace. The iDrive infotainment system, whilst lacking a touchscreen, offers impressive simplicity and convenience. A healthy stock of used F10 models exists on the market, making it easier to find the specification that suits your needs.

Best for: Drivers seeking an exceptional all-round executive saloon, those prioritising comfort and refinement for long journeys, and buyers wanting powerful yet efficient engines with modest running costs.

Not ideal for: Those sensitive to firm ride quality on larger alloy wheels, buyers of high-performance M5 variants concerned about fuel consumption, or those requiring split/folding rear seats as standard.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the 5 Series if: You seek an exceptional all-round executive saloon, prioritise comfort and refinement for long journeys, or want powerful yet efficient engines with modest running costs.

Consider alternatives if: You are sensitive to firm ride quality on larger alloy wheels, concerned about fuel consumption on high-performance variants, or require split/folding rear seats as standard.

Competitive Position: The BMW 5 Series (2010-2016) stands as the strongest contender in the executive saloon segment, earning a perfect expert rating and delivering exceptional all-round ability. Whilst the Audi A6 matches it with outstanding user ratings and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class offers comparable overall appeal, the 5 Series excels in driving satisfaction and refinement. Its efficient engines, particularly the 520d, provide the sweet spot between performance and economy. With a healthy stock of used models available, the 5 Series represents an enticing ownership proposition for those seeking a car that cossets its occupants and combines practicality with genuine driving pleasure.

Read our full BMW 5 Series Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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