I enjoyed the chemistry between Lorelai & Max, even though I knew it couldn't last, and didn't want it to last, because of LL. Jason was just way too weird for me and that entire season I was foaming at the mouth waiting for LL to realize their feelings for each other!
I like Rory but since I'm closer to Lorelai/Lauren's age, she was always the character I related to the most. It makes sense that we'd gravitate more towards characters closer to our own age.
Season 5 was charming, funny & I enjoyed it the entire way through, even with the LL breakup. Actually that episode when they get back together was so rewarding to watch IMO, I loved it!