The BMW 5 SERIES (1996-03) 525I 5DR TOURING 2.5 SE AUTO is a large, premium five-door estate, combining the comfort of an executive saloon with useful luggage space. In the UK used-car market, it sits above mainstream family estates, offering a more upmarket alternative to cars such as the Ford Mondeo Estate. With a 2.5-litre petrol engine and automatic gearbox, this SE Touring is suited to comfortable longer journeys, regular commuting and family holidays, especially for drivers who value space and relaxed travel over low running costs. Its estate shape makes bulky shopping, luggage and everyday family gear easier to carry, while the 5 Series is known for a composed, enjoyable drive and a more refined feel than many mainstream rivals. Across 89 mycarcheck.com look-ups covering 49 VINs, average mileage was 140,000 and annual use 6,000 miles; cars averaged just over four keepers and a £1,000 private-sale value. These are useful checks.