BMW 5-Series Touring vs. rivals

Luxury estate buyers are very demanding, but if you want style, practicality, driving fun, pace, quality and refinement, these talented cars are the answer. And all three are great buys. 

The A6’s shapely body still looks the part, and the smooth TDI engine and taut chassis mean it’s good to drive. Other strengths are the decent-sized boot and top-quality, if dated, interior. Quattro 4WD adds another dimension to the car’s appeal, but it can’t match the space of the Merc or the sharp dynamics and all-round desirability of the BMW. It takes third spot.

If you value maximum boot space above all else, the E-Class should be your choice. It’s also handsome, refined, comfortable and well equipped. However, the BMW 5-Series is still a better buy.

 

As with the saloon, it blends great refinement with involving handling. Its powerful diesel gives a masterclass in smoothness and performance, yet emits less CO2 than rivals. The spacious cabin is modern, beautifully built and lavish, too. And while the boot trails the Merc’s, the BMW is still practical, and has user-friendly touches like the split tailgate. It’s our new executive estate favourite.

While it’s spacious, versatile and comfortable, the Mercedes isn’t as sharp to drive as the BMW. It offers excellent pace, rides well and still has the edge on carrying capacity. High emissions make it a more costly company choice than the 5-Series, though, and that’s key.

A stylish, practical choice, despite its age. Its quattro 4WD alone will attract many buyers, and the sure-footed handling still impresses. But the steering lacks feel and the gearbox isn’t as smooth as the BMW’s set-up.