A power sunroof was added to the list of standard features for the 2003 BMW 530i. Other standard features for the 530i included traction control, stability control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, 15-inch alloy wheels, and front and side airbags, as well as tubular head-protection airbags for front and rear passengers.

Power was provided by a 3.0-liter, double-overhead-cam inline six-cylinder engine that produced 225 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, while a five-speed automatic was available as an option.

Other standard features for the 530i included power windows, power door locks, power heated mirrors, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, a leather-trimmed shift knob, cruise control, a dual-zone automatic climate control sytem, a keyless entry system, fog lights, and a 10-speaker AM/FM stereo system with a CD player.

Drivers found a lot to like about the 530i, including its quickness, quietness, handling, smooth ride, and safety features. They also liked the stereo system, roominess, and numerous automatic features, including the multi-function steering wheel, with controls for the audio system and cruise control.