BMW 5-Series Saloon (2003 - 2010) 523i SE 4d (07) (2007/07) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I level of sophistication and refinement that I personally cannot live up to.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it. The children think the soft close doors are genius. They all think I have more money than I really have.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, but would opt for diesel and manual gearbox rather than petrol and automatic.

What are you likely to buy next?

Another 523.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£8,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

My friend and colleague had owned the car for 5 years and was replacing with a new 530. Since I had travelled as a passenger many times and it had ben well looked after I agreed to a private sale. We settled on a price between A1 private and dealer trade-in.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed to replace my A4 and wanted something that offered more space and comfort on long journeys.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

A little slow and sluggish when cold and doing local/short journeys at low speeds. That's probably the engine management system protecting the engine. Once warmed up and on a motorway it's smooth, powerful and cruises beautifully.

What's it like to park?

This is a large car but is still relatively easy to park. The front and rear parking sensors plus the display mean you shouldn't hit anything.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not so far. Added some oil when it told me - but oddly it only said it wanted oil when the engine was turned off, not when driving or on starting,.

What's most practical about your car?

The comfort and driving experience coupled with the interior space for luggage and passengers.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The adaptive headlights that turn automatically when wheel turns.