The 5-Series has consistently out-performed its rival executive saloons. With its classic design and renowned performance and reliability, it truly is one of the most desired cars on the market. But how does the latest model shape up to its competitors? Does it live up to its pedigree reputation?
Engine Options
As always, BMW offers a wide selection of engines to choose from. There's a number of 2.0-liter mainstream petrol engines with varying power outputs and 3.0-liter options too. Likewise, the diesel versions come in varying specifications to suit your requirements. There's also an ActiveHybrid engine available for the environmentally conscious among us. Or for the driving enthusiast, there's the 550i, which has an awesome V8 under the bonnet, or the flagship M5 model with a twin turbo V8.
All the engines, including the hybrid, provide that power you'd expect from a top-end BMW, but the 3.0-liter petrol is noticeably more powerful than the smaller capacity and diesel versions. However, if it's economy you're after, the 520d 2.0-liter diesel will do 62.8 mpg whilst still spitting out an impressive 181 hp.
Handling
One of the more outstanding features of the new 5-Series is its impressive handling. The power steering is so light that it might put off some of the more petrol-headed among us, but it is nonetheless extremely responsive; making it one of the more fun executive saloons to drive.
The onboard computer reacts well to body roll, making cornering smooth and enjoyable, or you can switch to a sportier suspension for a more responsive, if a little bumpier, ride. What's more, BMW have managed to reduce road and engine noise in the interior so much that it's almost completely absent, making for a very quiet ride indeed.
Exterior
BMW haven't made too many changes to the 5-Series since the new model was introduced in 2010, aside from a few minor adjustments to the front and rear lights and a revised bumper. Some might say it's old-fashioned; others might say they found a good thing and are sticking to it. Either way, it's a dynamic looking animal, not ostentatiously flamboyant but rather quietly self confident. Unless of course you decide to go for the M5, which is fully kitted out with a remarkably aggressive streamlined body kit.
Interior
On the inside the 5-Series is perfectly tailored. That is to say you can have it exactly how you want it, but you will have to pay for it. For some reason BMW have decided to charge extra for the luxury of being able to put the rear seats down, which is an interesting move because its boot space is somewhat smaller than its Mercedes and Audi rivals. Aside from the huge drive shaft rendering the middle seat almost useless, the back seats are perfectly spacious. But if you're constantly going to be transporting a full car of adults you might want to consider an E-Class. That is, if you can stomach the conservative interiors found in Mercedes.
Reliability
BMWs are notoriously middling when it comes to long term reliability. In order to perform the way they do, BMWs are complex and have a lot of unique parts, so car maintenance can be a bit tricky if you don't go to a licensed dealer for servicing. Having said that, professional BMW car maintenance is some of the most advanced in the business and not as expensive as you might expect.
New Features
Perhaps the biggest update to the 5-Series is the modernised iDrive cabin control system. It has a high-res LCD screen on the dashboard, with a dial controller by the gear stick. With this you control multimedia, sat-nav, telephone, you name it. You can even go for an optional head-up display, which projects important information directly on the windscreen, meaning you'll never have to take your eyes of the road.
Another update to the 5-Series is the new intelligent headlight system. Sensors detect the amount of ambient light and adjust the headlights accordingly, meaning you're less likely to dazzle oncoming vehicles with your xenon high beams. Moreover, extra LEDs automatically light up when you're turning a corner so you can get a better idea of what's around the bend.
The Verdict
The new BMW 5-Series saloon is a luxury car with a ferocious heart. It's effortlessly modern both inside and out and yet at the same time a design classic. The ride is fun, responsive and incredibly safe. In a word, it's the executive saloon of the modern day.
