The new BMW 5-Series sets the standard in the executive sector, although it lacks the daring looks of its predecessor
It's more comfortable and luxurious than the car it replaces, but BMW's 5-Series is a force to be reckoned with in the executive car market.

Our pick: BMW 520d SE

STYLING

Buyers who liked the bold looks of the outgoing BMW 5-Series are likely to be disappointed by the latest car. Taking it cues from the large 7-Series, the newcomer is a little conservative. Standard SE models get alloy wheels, while racy M Sport version are distinguished by a rather aftermarket looking aerodynamic bodykit, larger rims and a lower ride height. On the plus side, the versatile Touring estate is handsome and well proportioned.

INTERIOR

While the 5-Series’s exterior is rather uninspiring, the cabin sets the standard for the class. Not only is it spacious, it’s beautifully built and thoughtfully laid out. And as you’d expect from BMW the quality of the materials is straight out of the top drawer. Refinement is excellent, with road, wind and engine noise kept to minimum. All models get leather trimmed seats as standard, together with a classy high gloss black finish for the dashboard, centre console and door pulls. Climate control and ambient cabin lighting complete the list of executive car must-haves.

DRIVING AND PERFORMANCE

There’s no escaping from the BMW 5-Series’s size, and down twisty back roads it feels very big. Fortunately the rear-wheel drive chassis feels composed, there’s plenty of grip and the steering is direct. Sadly, the 5-Series lacks the engagement and feedback of its predecessor, plus M Sport versions suffer from a firm ride. Optional adaptive dampers and four-wheel steering help to improve the car’s dynamics, but come at a considerable financial cost.




MPG AND RUNNING COSTS


As ever, the BMW’s engine line-up doesn’t have a weak link, with all units delivering a fine blend of performance and economy. The entry-level 2.0-litre 520d will sprint from 0 to 60mph in 8.1 seconds and return an impressive 57.6mpg.

PRACTICALITY

Given its huge exterior dimensions it’s no surprise to find the BMW 5-Series boasts a spacious interior. Occupants in the rear are treated to generous head and legroom, plus there are plenty of useful storage cubbies dotted about the cabin. Open the tailgate of the saloon and you’ll discover s a useful 520-litres of carrying capacity. However, a folding rear bench is a costly optional extra. The Touring can accommodate a maximum of 1,670-litres of luggage, although this trails the Mercedes E-Class estate by 280-litres.

RELIABILITY AND SAFETY

The BMW 5-Series scored well in every area of the EuroNCAP test, making it one of the safest cars in the class. A strong structure, six airbags and anti-whiplash head restraints feature on all cars, while a full complement of electronic safety aids help you avoid an accident in the first place. The previous generation 5-Series was marked down in our annual Driver Power survey for its poor reliability – expect an improvement for the latest version.