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BMW 5 Series: F10 and G30 generations, engines and trims
The BMW 5 Series is an executive saloon and estate (Touring) that combines long-distance comfort with BMW's trademark handling. We look at the two most popular generations on the used market — F10 (2010–2017) and G30 (2017–2023), briefly at the latest G60, plus engines, trims and what to check before buying.
5 Series in brief
The 5 Series has been in production since 1972, with generations designated by the codes E12, E28, E34, E39, E60, F10, G30 and the current G60. The estate is called Touring (F11, G31, G61). Most versions are rear-wheel drive, while xDrive versions are all-wheel drive. The sportiest is the M5, and between it and the regular versions sit the M550i and M550d.
The 5 Series is prized for its excellent ride comfort, quiet cabin, powerful six-cylinder engines and the ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. In Lithuania, the 520d and 530d are especially sought after, often with xDrive.
F10 and G30 — how they differ
The F10 (2010–2017) is a big, comfortable and well-equipped car. The 2013 facelift (LCI) brought more efficient engines, revised headlights and a newer iDrive system. Today it is the most affordable way to buy a modern 5 Series, but most cars already have high mileage.
The G30 (2017–2023) is lighter, more technologically advanced and safer: more driver assistance systems, often a digital instrument cluster, and the 530e plug-in hybrid. The 2020 facelift changed the looks and added a 48 V mild-hybrid system to many engines.
The G60 (from 2023) is larger, with a curved display in the cabin, and for the first time an electric version, the i5, is offered. It is still rare and expensive on the used market, so F10 and G30 remain most relevant for most buyers.
Engines and gearboxes
In the F10 generation, the most popular is the 520d (around 184–190 hp), along with the six-cylinder 3.0 diesels: 525d, 530d and 535d. Petrols include the 520i and 528i (from around 2011, a four-cylinder 2.0 turbo), plus the 535i and 550i V8. Early 520d models used the N47 engine, later ones the newer B47.
In the G30 generation, the most common are the 520d (B47, around 190 hp) and 530d (B57, around 265–286 hp), plus the 518d and 540d. Petrols include the 520i, 530i, 540i and M550i V8, while the 530e is a plug-in hybrid.
Most F10s and all G30s have the ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox, which is considered one of the best in its class. Manual gearboxes are rare.
What to check when buying a used 5 Series
On early F10-generation 520d and 518d (N47) models, the timing chain is at the back of the engine and can stretch — there should be no rattling or whining when starting from cold. A similar timing chain issue also occurred in early four-cylinder petrol 520i and 528i (N20) models. The 550i V8 has a reputation for expensive repairs.
BMW oil leaks are common (valve cover, oil filter housing gasket). Touring versions usually have rear self-levelling air suspension — check that the car doesn't sink after being parked.
On diesel cars, check the DPF and EGR, and on newer ones also the AdBlue system. In xDrive cars, there should be no juddering or crunching in corners, which can indicate a transfer case fault. Check mileage against service and inspection records.
Trims (equipment lines)
BMW trims are called lines; their names and equipment vary by market and year.
Standartinė
F10, G30, G60Already a well-equipped car as standard.
- Automatic climate control
- iDrive infotainment system
- Often — navigation and parking sensors
Sport Line
F10 (after facelift), G30 up to 2020Sportier looks and seats.
- Sports seats
- Black exterior details
- Larger alloy wheels
Luxury Line
F10 (after facelift), G30An elegant, comfort-focused line.
- Chrome exterior details
- More premium cabin trim
- Often — leather seats
M Sport
F10, G30, G60The most popular line on the used market — sporty looks and chassis.
- M aerodynamic package
- Sports suspension and M steering wheel
- Larger alloy wheels, often — M brakes
M Sport Pro
G60An even sportier M Sport package variant in the latest generation.
- Black exterior details
- Often — M Sport brakes
- Larger alloy wheels
Comparison of G30 generation lines
| Standartinė | Sport Line | Luxury Line | M Sport | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For the rational buyer | For sporty looks | For comfort and elegance | For sporty driving |
| Wheels (usually) | 17–18 in. | 18 in. | 18 in. | 18–19 in. |
| Appearance | Standartinė | Black accents | Chrome | M aerodynamic package |
| Suspension | Standartinė | Standartinė | Standartinė | Sporty, firmer |
| Used market price (relative) | € | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
M Sport is the most sought-after and best value-retaining trim. If comfort on Lithuanian roads is paramount, choose the standard version or Luxury Line with smaller wheels.
Pros
- Excellent comfort and handling
- Powerful and economical 3.0 diesels
- ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox
- Large boot in the Touring version
Cons
- Expensive servicing and parts
- Timing chain problems on early F10-generation N47 and N20 engines
- Complex electronics and expensive repairs
Frequently asked questions
520d or 530d?
The 520d is the most economical and most common, and its power is enough for most. The six-cylinder 530d is quieter, more powerful and better suited to long journeys and towing, while using only slightly more fuel.
F10 or G30 — which generation to choose?
If your budget allows, go for the G30: it is lighter, safer and has newer engines. The F10 is cheaper; it is best to choose a post-2013 facelift and check that the timing chain has no issues.
Is it worth choosing xDrive?
For Lithuanian winters, xDrive is a big advantage, especially with more powerful engines. However, it is extra hardware that needs maintenance, so when buying it is worth checking the condition of the transfer case.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
