BMW M5

Spotting the M5 is not easy. Many of the styling changes are shared with the 5-Series Sport models, although the alloy wheels, quad tailpipes and side slats are unique to this car.

Inside, a complex array of buttons by the stubby gearlever give control of the BMW's technical wizardry. There is even a Power button to limit the 507bhp 5.0-litre V10 engine to 400bhp.

It is the jewel in the M5's crown and delivers sensational pace. Tractable and muscular, it sounds like a meaty V8 at low revs, but only gets into its stride higher in the range. With the limiter not cutting in until 8,250rpm, the M5 is capable of hitting 60mph in 4.7 seconds. It accelerates as hard as most supercars and sounds better than many, too.

After the engine, the rest of the car is a bit of an anti-climax. The seven-speed sequential gearbox is impressive, but the shifts are too abrupt unless you lift the throttle during changes. And although the M5 handles well for a big car, it has been set up for smooth German tarmac, and is too stiff on UK roads. The new M might be magic, but it is also something of a one-trick pony...