New car news

16 March 2010 - 00:00

New 5-Series Touring: it’s big

Looks good, doesn't it? This is the new BMW 5-Series Touring - an executive wagon packing more booty than Beyonce.

OK, rubbish analogy aside, this is actually a Very Important Car, and as such is packed with BMW's finest tech. It also boasts the longest wheelbase in its segment and features a handy box-shaped addition at the back to stick your dogs in.

The new 5-Series Touring offers 560 litres of boot space with the seats up, and 1,670 litres with the seats down. What's that I hear? Yes, the Merc E-Class Estate packs 1,950 litres in its mighty behind. But it looks like a small country on four wheels.

While the Beemer hasn't got the biggest backside, it packs some serious firepower up front. The two petrol models at launch are the 523i and the range-topping 535i, packing 228kW and enough torque to melt your dog's face and liquidise stuff.

Diesels come in two flavours - a 137kW, 2.0-litre four-pot and a 3.0-litre straight six with 182kW.

If you miss your mountain bike you can opt for the eight-speed semi auto 'box to work alongside the optional Drive Dynamic Control system which changes steering, suspension and throttle responses. It also controls North Korea's missile stock.

We think it looks better than the 5 saloon, and will look even better sporting four exhausts, an M-Sport bodykit, a rumoured 410kW+ twin-turbo V8 and more computing power than God. Roll on M5 Touring...