5 Reasons Why the 2022 BMW 5 Series is Still a Smart Used Car Buy
The BMW 5 Series has been a mainstay in the executive sedan market for years and it's still one of the best picks even in its used form. The 2022 BMW 5 Series is a solid buy offering luxury style and an impressive amount of tech. If you're considering a used model from this year you're in for a treat! In this article we'll dive deep into why the 2022 5 Series should be on your radar and what potential quirks (let's call them quirks not drawbacks) you need to be aware of. After all no car is perfect but some get pretty darn close.
Why Choose a Used 2022 BMW 5 Series?
Buying a used car is like buying a pre-opened gift – it’s still exciting but you don’t get the ribbon. The 2022 BMW 5 Series though well it’s more like getting a gift that somebody else just looked at for a second before handing it over. The 5 Series keeps its value well and buying used means you can still get a great car without the new car premium.
Here’s what stands out:
- Depreciation – The 5 Series like most luxury cars takes a hefty depreciation hit in the first year. Buying used means you avoid that painful price drop.
- Luxury for Less – You get high-end features like leather seats premium sound and advanced tech without having to take out a second mortgage.
- Proven Reliability – The 5 Series has a strong track record for longevity so even with some miles on the odometer it’s likely to last you for many years to come.
Engine Options: Performance You Can Feel
The 2022 BMW 5 Series offers several engine choices each with its own charm (and quirks). Whether you're looking for fuel efficiency or raw power there’s something for everyone.
530i: The Fuel-Sipper
The 530i is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivering 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful option it’s got plenty of pep for daily driving and long highway hauls.
Pros:
- Impressive fuel economy – about 28 mpg combined
- Quick acceleration without feeling over-the-top
Potential Quirks:
You might find the engine a bit lacking if you’re used to more power. It’s like expecting fireworks and getting sparklers – fun but not mind-blowing. But hey at least you’ll save at the pump!
540i: The Sweet Spot
This one’s powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 335 horsepower. For many this strikes the perfect balance between power and efficiency.
Pros:
- 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds
- A more dynamic driving experience without sacrificing too much fuel economy
Potential Quirks:
The 540i’s power might tempt you to test its limits – just watch out for speeding tickets. It’s like giving a kid a slingshot and expecting them not to break a window.
M550i: The Beast
Here’s where things get serious. The M550i is equipped with a 4.4-liter V8 producing a whopping 523 horsepower. If you’re looking for heart-pounding performance this is your guy.
Pros:
- 0-60 mph in an insane 3.6 seconds
- Roaring exhaust note that’ll make you smile every time you hit the throttle
Potential Quirks:
Sure it’s fast but good luck explaining to your passengers why you’re gunning it at every green light. “Just testing the engine!” you’ll say as they white-knuckle the armrests. Oh and don’t expect great fuel economy – that V8 guzzles gas like it’s going out of style.
Tech and Features: High-End Goodies
The 2022 BMW 5 Series doesn’t skimp on tech. Even in a used model you’re getting access to some of the best features BMW has to offer.
Infotainment System: iDrive 7.0
BMW’s iDrive system is one of the best in the business. The iDrive 7.0 in the 2022 5 Series includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is intuitive but there’s also a bit of a learning curve.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use controls
- Crisp clear display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
Potential Quirks:
Learning the iDrive system can be like learning a new language at first. You'll be pressing buttons trying to get the hang of it while wondering if you just turned on the heated seats by accident.
Driver Assistance Features
The 2022 5 Series comes with a variety of driver aids like adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and automated emergency braking. BMW calls it the Driving Assistance Professional Package which is a fancy way of saying “it tries not to let you crash.”
Pros:
- Extra peace of mind on long trips
- Makes stop-and-go traffic slightly less soul-crushing
Potential Quirks:
Lane-keeping assist sometimes feels like a backseat driver who’s had one too many espressos. It’ll tug at the wheel to keep you in your lane even when you’re perfectly fine. You’ll appreciate it though when it saves you from an accidental drift.
Interior: Comfort Meets Style
One area where the 2022 BMW 5 Series truly shines is in its interior. BMW didn’t skimp on materials – the cabin feels like a luxury lounge on wheels. Whether you’re driving to work or embarking on a cross-country trip you’ll be comfortable.
Seating and Space
Pros:
- The seats are plush and supportive even after long hours of driving
- Plenty of room for rear passengers which is great if you’re ferrying around adults
- Spacious trunk for all your gear or grocery hauls
Potential Quirks:
The controls for adjusting the seats can sometimes be a bit too complicated. You’ll feel like you need an engineering degree just to get the lumbar support right.
Build Quality
BMW is known for its solid build quality and the 2022 5 Series is no exception. The cabin is well-insulated so road noise is minimal. However you might notice a few rattles or creaks as the miles rack up especially in a used model.
Pros:
- Top-notch materials
- Quiet cabin makes for peaceful drives
Potential Quirks:
There’s always that one rattle that you can never quite locate. You’ll spend more time than you’d like playing a game of “What’s making that noise?” than you’d care to admit.
Potential Drawbacks: What to Watch Out For
Every car has its quirks and the 2022 BMW 5 Series is no different. Here’s what to keep in mind if you’re shopping for a used one:
Maintenance Costs
BMWs are fantastic when they’re running smoothly but maintenance can get pricey especially once the warranty expires. You’ll want to budget for oil changes brake jobs and other routine maintenance.
Potential Quirks:
Owning a BMW can feel like a love-hate relationship at times. You’ll be driving along thinking “This car is amazing” and then the “Service Engine” light pops on and you’re thinking “Not again!”
Electronics
While the tech in the 5 Series is impressive it’s not immune to issues. Infotainment systems can glitch and sensors sometimes go haywire.
Potential Quirks:
Nothing quite like your infotainment freezing mid-road trip leaving you stuck with whatever radio station you accidentally landed on. Good luck explaining that to your passengers.
Rear Seat Space
While the 5 Series is roomy in the front the rear seats might feel a bit cramped for taller passengers on long trips.
Potential Quirks:
Your tall friends will definitely remind you of how much legroom they don’t have back there. “Sure I’ll sit in the back” they’ll say begrudgingly and then not-so-subtly mention how they can’t feel their knees after 20 minutes.
Alex Collantes' Take on the 2022 BMW 5 Series
I reached out to Alex Collantes a local BMW enthusiast who’s driven multiple 5 Series models over the years. When asked about the 2022 BMW 5 Series he had this to say:
"The 2022 5 Series hits the perfect spot for those who want luxury without the full-on commitment of a 7 Series. It's smooth powerful and the interior feels like you're getting way more for your money especially if you're buying used. The tech's a little tricky at first but once you get the hang of it it's a game-changer. The only real downside for me is keeping up with the maintenance but if you're buying a BMW that's something you already know going in."
Should You Buy a Used 2022 BMW 5 Series?
If you're looking for a luxury sedan that blends performance with comfort and still feels modern a used 2022 BMW 5 Series is a great choice. With various engine options high-end tech and a well-crafted interior it's an excellent value on the used market. Yes there are a few quirks but that's part of the fun isn’t it?
To sum it up here’s why it’s a smart buy:
- Depreciation advantage – Let someone else take the hit
- Luxury features at a lower price
- Multiple engine options – There's something for everyone
- Proven reliability with proper maintenance
- Timeless design that still turns heads
Potential quirks like higher maintenance costs and tricky tech are worth it when you factor in the sheer joy of driving a car that’s designed for the long haul. So if you're in the market for a used luxury sedan go ahead and give the 2022 BMW 5 Series a look – just make sure to set a little aside for that inevitable service light!