The wait is nearly over for the arrival of the brand-new 2026 BMW 5 Series at Milwaukee lakefront dealerships! This extraordinary lineup features five distinct models designed to bring out the best in drivers and elevate their driving experience.
The 5 Series has consistently been a best-seller here at BMW of Milwaukee North, and we’re thrilled to start offering test drives soon. We understand you want to learn everything before making such an important decision. That’s when our Research Hub becomes your best friend with vehicle reviews and shopping tips.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the 2026 BMW 5 Series lineup at our luxury car showroom near Glendale, WI.
As you may know, BMW splits its vehicles into series. SUVs get the X prefix, while sedans have simple numbers. Even numbers are traditionally 2-door coupes, while odd numbers are more executive-looking 4-door sedans. One of the most renowned series is the 5 Series.
With these five models, you have plenty of choices depending on whether you’re looking for affordability, luxury, power, or alternative powertrains.
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The 530i models benefit the most from this year’s changes. Even as base models, all trims now include ambient lighting and lumbar support for both front seats, features previously reserved for higher trims.
The addition of the BMW Interaction Bar featuring a crystalline surface transforms your driving experience. Each MyMode is staged differently in the Bar, allowing you to change your experience every time. The interior features new BMW Individual Merino Leather in Black/Dark Violet. The door switchgear has been upgraded with a high-gloss Black finish. |
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The main difference between models is the engine. The 530 models come with a 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine delivering 255 horsepower and 0-60 mph in about 5.8 seconds. The 540i xDrive features a larger 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine producing 375 horsepower for a 0-60 time of just 4.4 seconds.
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The 2026 BMW 550e xDrive is a revolutionary vehicle that brings electric power to the 540i we mentioned earlier. It retains the same 3.0 L twin-turbo six-cylinder engine but is now accompanied by an electric motor that adds an additional 108 horsepower. With its mighty 516 lb-ft of torque, it can rocket from 0-60 in only 4.1 seconds.
This model retains all the creature comforts of the interior, and the exterior design is virtually identical to its non-hybrid counterpart. The only real change is the addition of a charging port. |
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| The 550e xDrive features regenerative braking to recapture energy when slowing down. Charging is easy with the included Flexible Fast Charger. The MyBMW app helps find nearby charging stations. Starting with a full charge, you can travel 33 miles on electric power alone, with a total range of 420 miles with gas. | |
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If you want to eliminate gas entirely, the i5 models are your answer. The i5 M50 is the fastest electric model, taking styling cues from BMW’s M line with carbon fiber accents and M-specific components. This powerhouse delivers a 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds with 593 horsepower!
If range matters more than power, consider the i5 eDrive40 or i5 xDrive40. Starting this spring, these models reduce energy consumption for roughly 47 miles of increased range. The eDrive40 now offers 278-310 miles, while the xDrive40 provides 259-278 miles. |
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New 19″ aerodynamic wheels are now available as an option for the BMW i5 eDrive40, enhancing efficiency and style. Read our BMW EV Lifestyle guide to see if this type of vehicle is right for you.
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If we’re talking about the best of the best, there’s only one 5 Series model that stands above the rest. The M5 represents BMW’s Motorsport division and is truly track-ready. It runs on a TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine, but that’s not all. It works in tandem with a 194-horsepower electric motor for a total output of 717 horsepower. That brings the 0-60mph time all the way down to an astonishing 3.4 seconds. The style is different from other models with distinctive M engineering and style cues. It also includes M Compound Brakes and an M Sport Differential for enhanced handling and control on the track. The M5 stands out with flared wheel arches and a two-section diffuser that hint at its incredible performance capabilities. |
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One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the silicon carbide semiconductor in the power electronics of the BMW i5. Combined with reworked wheel bearings, this improves BMW 5 Series fuel efficiency significantly, adding up to 47 miles of range for electric vehicles.
Each model offers various drive modes to customize your driving experience. All feature a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, upgraded for M models to handle their tremendous power. It works perfectly with the BMW hybrid technology. When driving your new BMW 5 Series down Brown Deer Road, you’ll appreciate how these technological advancements deliver a refined experience. |
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New for this year, the interior buttons for various functions are finished in high-gloss Black with a 3D effect as standard. The ambient lighting sets the mood on every drive, thanks to the predefined lighting designs and a spectrum of colors to choose from.
The front seats are electronically adjustable and feature a memory function for personalized comfort. Premium leather upholstery and trim details add a touch of sophistication. And it’s vegan leather for conscious luxury that doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort. The standard moonroof brings the outside inside, flooding the cabin with natural light and creating an even more spacious feel in the already generous interior. |
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The exterior maintains the executive car features that have made the 5 Series so distinctive. The slanted headlights and iconic kidney grille return with a refreshed look that honors BMW’s design heritage.
New LED headlights and taillights improve visibility and style. The Dynamic Light Carpet projects an illuminated pattern when approaching or exiting the vehicle, adding a touch of drama to every arrival. |
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Technology truly shines in this vehicle with a continuous touchscreen comprising a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central display. Connect your phone seamlessly with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and enjoy the built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
The BMW 5 Series technology features continue with the Intelligent Personal Assistant. It enables hands-free control of navigation, climate, and more. Advanced driver assistance systems include lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. New for 2026, a Harman Kardon HiFi loudspeaker system comes standard, replacing the previous Bowers & Wilkins system. |
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Wisconsin winters are no joke, and this vehicle is up for the challenge. When looking for Milwaukee winter car options, the BMW 5 Series should top your list. The Tire Repair Kit Plus now comes with all models except plug-in hybrid and electric versions. With xDrive, the BMW 5 Series all-wheel-drive system handles treacherous road conditions with ease. This German car’s winter handling is legendary, and the 5 Series lives up to that reputation.
The heated steering wheel and heated seats in luxury cars are a godsend during cold Wisconsin winters, making every drive comfortable regardless of the outside temperature. We invite you to schedule a BMW test drive near Brookfield to experience these winter-ready features yourself. |
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Experience the ultimate combination of luxury, performance, and technology with the BMW 5 Series at BMW of Milwaukee North. As the premier BMW dealership in Milwaukee North, we offer various trims, packages, and colors so you can customize your dream 5 Series.
What are the major design changes in the 2026 BMW 5 Series compared to previous models?
There aren’t drastic design changes this year, but rather meaningful refinements to these best midsize luxury cars. Beyond the power savings in the i5, we now offer standard Harman Kardon HiFi speakers. Design updates include high-gloss Black accents and new BMW Individual Merino Leather options.
How does the 2026 BMW 5 Series perform in Wisconsin winter weather conditions?
The 2026 5 Series excels in Wisconsin winter driving with the available xDrive all-wheel-drive system, providing outstanding traction on snow and ice. BMW xDrive snow performance automatically adjusts to changing road conditions, ensuring confidence in harsh winter weather.
What are the hybrid and electric options available for the 2026 BMW 5 Series?
Premium sedan comparison is not easy. It’s like comparing the BMW 5 Series vs Audi A6. For 2026, BMW offers the 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid with 33 miles of electric range and 420 miles total. The fully electric i5 lineup includes the eDrive40, xDrive40, and performance-oriented M50 with ranges between 259-310 miles.
What financing and lease options does BMW of Milwaukee North offer for the 2026 5 Series?
Milwaukee North Side car shopping is easier with our flexible solutions through BMW Financial Services. BMW financing in Wauwatosa offers competitive rates and terms. Our BMW lease deals in North Milwaukee are ideal for those who enjoy driving the latest models, with terms typically ranging from 24 to 36 months.
Does BMW of Milwaukee North provide winter maintenance packages for BMWs?
We help prepare your car for winter through comprehensive maintenance services. Our BMW service center in Milwaukee County offers expert preparation and guidance on luxury car maintenance costs. We also provide winter accessories, including floor mats, snow brushes, and specialized wheel and tire packages.
What makes BMW of Milwaukee North different from other luxury car dealerships in the area?
We’re the go-to for luxury sedans in Milwaukee because we offer exceptional vehicles and unmatched customer service. We also allow you to Build Your BMW exactly how you want it, providing a personalized experience that other dealerships simply can’t match.
