Bigger's Better For 5 Loader

BMW is ready to stick the boot into rivals with the launch of its all-new 5-Series Touring. The luxury load-lugger, which comes with a raft of innovative technology such as head-up speed and rev counter information displays for the driver, also has one of the biggest cargo areas on the market.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Gavin Ward

18th February 2004

Thanks to the increased dimensions - it's 3.8cm longer and 4.6cm wider than the previous model - the Touring's carrying capacity ranges from 500 litres to a massive 1,615 litres when the rear seats are folded forward.

The enlarged 5 offers more leg and shoulder room for passengers, too. And it all comes without any weight penalty. Engineers have made extensive use of aluminum, which means the Touring tips the scales at 50kg less than before.

When it goes on sale here in May, buyers will be able to choose between four different engines; 2.5-litre and 4.4-litre petrol powerplants will be offered alongside 2.5-litre and 3.0-litre oil-burners. The entry-level car will have a price tag of ΂£29,415, with the 155mph flagship 545i at ΂£43,985. All models come with self-levelling suspension, a split opening tailgate and a six-speed gearbox.

As usual with BMW, there's no shortage of options, either. Adaptive headlights which shine round corners, Active Steering and Dynamic Drive all feature. What's more, for the first time a panoramic roof can be specified, and the firm claims this will make the car feel like a cabrio when open. In autumn, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre diesel, badged the 535d, will join the line-up. Boasting 272bhp and 560Nm of torque - 89 per cent of which will be available from only 1,500rpm - this promises to rival the 545i for performance. At the start of 2005, 520i and 530i petrol cars will also appear to complete the range.