BMW F07 5 Series GT buying guide: the Gran Turismo explained
The F07 5 Series GT combines saloon comfort, a high seating position and a large hatchback. This guide covers its engines, the two-part tailgate, air suspension, common issues and what to check.
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The F07 5 Series GT, also called the 5 Series Gran Turismo, was launched in 2009. It combined the comfort of a luxury saloon, the high seating position of an SUV and the practicality of a large hatchback. Its unusual shape divided opinion, but owners often praise its comfort and space.
Today, the F07 5 Series GT can be excellent value as a used luxury car. This guide explains the engines, the special tailgate, the suspension, common issues and what to check before you buy.
A different kind of 5 Series
Although it carries the 5 Series name, the F07 GT is based on the F01 7 Series platform. It is longer and taller than the F10 5 Series saloon, with a higher seating position and a long wheelbase that gives rear passengers a lot of legroom.
Our F01 7 Series buying guide explains many of the shared parts. The GT was replaced in 2017 by the G32 6 Series Gran Turismo.
The two-part tailgate
One of the most interesting features of the F07 GT is its tailgate. It can open like a saloon boot lid, with only the lower part lifting, or as a full hatchback, with the whole rear section and window lifting up. This lets you load small items without letting cold air into the cabin, or carry large items when needed.
Check that both opening modes work, that the motors are smooth and that there are no warning messages. Tailgate repairs can be costly.
Engines
The F07 5 Series GT was offered with several engines:
- 535i GT: a six-cylinder turbo petrol.
- 550i GT: a twin-turbo V8 petrol.
- 520d GT, 530d GT and 535d GT: four and six-cylinder diesels. Our article on the BMW N57 diesel explains the six-cylinder unit.
The 530d GT is the most popular in Europe for its comfort, torque and economy. The 550i offers strong performance but has higher running costs.
Suspension and chassis
Most F07 GTs have self-levelling air suspension at the rear, which keeps the car level when loaded. Some cars also have adaptive dampers and Integral Active Steering, which turns the rear wheels slightly to improve agility and stability.
Check that the car sits level after standing overnight and that there are no warnings for the suspension or steering. Rear air springs can wear with age.
F07 5 Series GT common issues
Points to check include:
- Rear air springs and compressor.
- V8 engine oil consumption, leaks and timing chain wear. Our article on BMW oil consumption explains this.
- Diesel DPF and EGR. Our article on the BMW DPF explains this.
- Tailgate motors and electronics.
- Front suspension bushes on a heavy car. Our article on BMW suspension bushings explains them.
- Battery health and electrical faults. Our article on BMW battery registration explains why the battery must be registered.
- Panoramic roof drains, which can cause water leaks.
Practicality and comfort
The F07 GT is very spacious inside, with a high seating position, large rear doors and excellent rear legroom. The rear seats can slide and recline in some cars, and the boot is large, especially with the seats folded.
Frameless door windows give the car a coupé feel. Overall, it is one of the most comfortable BMWs for long trips with passengers.
Gearbox
Most F07 GTs have the eight-speed automatic gearbox, which is smooth and efficient. Check for smooth shifts and no delays when selecting drive or reverse. Fluid changes can help on high-mileage cars. Our article on BMW transmission fluid explains why.
Running costs
The 530d GT combines strong performance with reasonable economy. The 535i uses more fuel, and the 550i much more. The GT is heavy, so tyres, brakes and suspension parts wear faster than on a saloon. Budget for preventive maintenance, especially for the rear air suspension.
Because the GT has a smaller fan base than the saloon, prices are often lower than for an F10 5 Series of the same age. That makes it a strong value choice, but it can also take longer to sell later. Buy a good one and plan to keep it.
Test drive checklist
On the test drive:
- Test both tailgate modes.
- Check that the car sits level after standing.
- Listen for knocks over bumps.
- Test the gearbox in all modes.
- Check all comfort functions, including seats, climate and the panoramic roof.
- Read the fault memory.
Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW M car covers many checks that apply to any BMW.
Is the F07 5 Series GT a good buy?
A well-maintained F07 5 Series GT is a comfortable, spacious and practical luxury car at a low used price. The 530d GT is the best all-round choice for most buyers.
Its looks are not for everyone, but if comfort and space matter more than style, the GT can be one of the best value large BMWs on the used market.
BMW F07 5 Series GT key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Production | 2009 to 2017 |
| Body | Five-door Gran Turismo hatchback |
| Platform | Based on the F01 7 Series |
| Petrol | 535i GT, 550i GT |
| Diesel | 520d GT, 530d GT, 535d GT |
| Special feature | Two-part tailgate |
| Key checks | Rear air suspension, tailgate, V8 condition, DPF |
Frequently asked questions
Is the F07 GT a 5 Series or a 7 Series?
It carries the 5 Series name, but it is based on the F01 7 Series platform.
How does the F07 GT tailgate work?
It can open as a small boot lid or as a full hatchback with the rear window.
Which F07 5 Series GT engine is best?
The 530d GT offers the best balance of comfort, performance and economy.
What replaced the F07 GT?
The G32 6 Series Gran Turismo replaced it in 2017.
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