BMW 5 Series Tyre Recommendations

The BMW 5 Series is one of BMW’s most successful vehicle models, first released in 1972 and still a popular go-to executive car even today. Characterised by its innovative design and technology, its luxurious build, and its balance of passenger comfort and agile handling, every iteration and version of the BMW 5 Series improves on the last by prioritising the features that matter to drivers.

In most cases, that means each newer model boosts performance through the inclusion of new safety features, while also making the vehicle more fuel efficient, more comfortable to drive, and more intuitive across different climates and terrains.

But even the finest of vehicles is only really as good as the fitments that bring it to life – with one of the most crucial being the vehicle’s tyres.

What Do Drivers Need to Consider When Choosing Tyres?

You need only briefly peruse our online storefront to see just how broad and diverse the tyre market is.

From different tyre types for different driving conditions and terrains, to varying tyre sizes, special features, and tread patterns, there’s a lot to think about when it comes to tyre selection. In our experience, the best place to start is with tyre size as this informs the safety element of your vehicle and ensures that the vehicle is adequately supported.

Once you’ve identified the right tyre size (more on that in the next section of this article), you can look at all-season vs. seasonal tyres, specific tyre features, and other preferences.

So, where and how do you identify tyre size – and what is the ideal tyre size for a BMW 5 Series?

Recommended Tyre Size for a BMW 5 Series

The BMW 5 Series is an executive car, renowned for its luxury and style, its comfortable ride experience, and its use of advanced driving technology across all iterations of the car model.

The best tyre size for this vehicle varies depending on the exact model you are driving and its age – although most of the BMW 5 Series cars are best suited to a wide tyre with a width measurement of between 245mm and 275mm, and a low profile (sidewall height).

Some of the most common sizes you’ll find fitted to a BMW 5 Series car include 245/45 R18 tyres, 245/50 R17 tyres, and 275/35 R19 tyres. If you’re unsure on the best fit for your specific vehicle, check the vehicle handbook or you can replicate the tyre size of the car’s original tyres that are already fitted.

Choosing Between All-Season and Seasonal Tyres for Your BMW

Identifying the right tyre size for your vehicle is step one of the process – but it doesn’t end there. Once you know what size to look for, you need to consider terrain, tyre type, seasonal design and the tread pattern. This is where UK drivers benefit from the widest choice, able to fit all-season tyres for year-round convenience and safety or opt for the specific features of winter and summer tyres.

All-season tyres optimise handling and performance on wet and dry roads as well as in colder conditions, with some of the best all-season tyres for a luxury BMW 5 Series including models from the Pirelli brand – renowned for its quality and performance.

Summer tyres require a stronger structure with reinforced sidewalls and variable grip, that can handle the complex needs of both wet and dry road surfaces. Popular models include the Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres and Continental ContiSportContact tyres.

Winter tyres are the most sophisticated in terms of design, bridging the need for flexibility and handling precision with superior grip that can support full control on icy and snowy roads. The top winter tyre brands include Bridgestone, Michelin and Nokian – with popular models for the BMW 5 Series including the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 tyres and Michelin X-Ice Xi3 tyres.

The range of tyres available on the market means that drivers can choose from fitments that are built and engineered for specific conditions, or for the more temperate year-round climate experienced in the UK. But as most vehicle manufacturers do, BMW has its own list of OEM recommended brands – that is, the tyre brands it deems the best suited to its vehicles in terms of performance, durability and precision.

Top Tyre Brands According to BMW’s OEM List

BMW’s tyre brands of choice, from the perspective of vehicle performance and the durability of tyres, are Michelin, Pirelli, Bridgestone, Continental and Dunlop. The exact model will depend on the car type and age, with BMW citing all of these brands as offering the premium quality that optimises traction, supports high-speed control and stability, and enhances comfort.

That’s not to say that drivers can’t opt for cheaper brands from the middle or budget end of the market – you may find though that these tyres need replacing sooner, or don’t support the same driving experience.

The Best Tyre Models for a BMW 5 Series

Finally then, to the best tyre models for the BMW 5 Series of cars.

We’ve already covered some of the seasonal and all-season models worth considering, depending on your preference as a driver. To make browsing easier though, here is a single list of the some of the top recommended tyre models to explore when buying for a BMW 5 Series:

• BMW Pilot Sport 5
• Continental EXTREMECONTACT DWS06
• Pirelli P Zero
• Pirelli Cinturato
• Yokohama YK740

You will find all of these tyres and more available on our individual brand pages – or why not get in touch with the team for bespoke advice relating to your vehicle. Alternatively, you can check out our other Knowledge Hub pieces for more information on selecting the best tyres to suit your needs.