
- Car Reviews
- BMW
- 5 Series
Good stuff
As ever, the ride/ handling/eco/quality compromise is spot on
Bad stuff
Focus has shifted from handling to comfort
Overview
What is it?
The new BMW 5 Series, which is like saying the new VW Golf or the new Mini. Even though it has almost all new parts, we all know exactly what it’s going to be: a fine-driving, well-built, refined luxury car, with an options list that crosses the whole dealer forecourt. The new parts, by the way, are based on the floorpan and chassis of the new 7-Series. The body is impressively light thanks to aluminium all over the skin, but the 5 doesn’t have the fancy carbonfibre structural members of the more expensive 7.
In the UK for launch we get the choice of two turbo petrols (530i and 540i) and two diesels (520d and 530d). More engines will follow, then Touring estates, M5 and more.
Our choice from the range

What's the verdict?
Typically BMW for its sheer composure on the road and fine refinement.
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