BMW 530d

THE new 5-Series is a worthy addition to BMW’s enormously successful executive car dynasty. It’s more grown-up than before, and that only serves to increase its everyday appeal. The biggest achievement, though, is that this doesn’t come at the expense of the driving thrills which have attracted so many customers over the years. Our only concern is most of the equipment that makes the latest-generation 5 so incredibly capable is found on the extensive options list.

Building a new BMW 5-Series is a daunting task. Each successive model sets higher standards in terms of style, technology and performance. The sixth generation has big shoes to fill – and our first drive of a European-spec 535i in Issue 1,099 suggested it succeeds. But does the car make as much sense on UK roads? We drove a 530d diesel to find out.

BMW has attempted to move away from the previous version’s controversial design with a more reserved and elegant look. And it has worked. The car has plenty of understated class; its short front overhang and protruding kidney grille are reminiscent of the Maserati Quattroporte. Plus, the prominent shoulderline, running along each flank to the LED tail-lights, adds some dynamism.

However, where the previous model was lauded for its unique styling, the latest version bears a closer resemblance to an inflated 3-Series or a deflated 7-Series, depending on your point of view.

It’s more grown-up inside, with the improved cabin owing much to the larger 7. The driving position is excellent, providing plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment. Matt chrome and gloss details reinforce the classy appearance on the outside, while the instrument dials combine old and new technology – analogue gauges work in tandem with an integrated LCD information display.

Leather trim is included as standard for the first time, while hi-tech optional extras such as head-up display and the superb widescreen sat-nav help reduce stress on unfamiliar roads. But when they cost £940 and £1,545 respectively, so they should!

The new 5 uses a shortened version of the latest 7-Series platform, as well as its all-aluminium suspension. This gives the car a longer wheelbase than before, aiding high-speed stability and liberating extra cabin space, particularly in the rear. The ride has benefited, too, with well judged damping providing excellent comfort when cruising and suppleness if you drive enthusiastically. Also, the power-steering is electric for the first time, yet remains direct and relatively full of feel.

Diesels will make up 90 per cent of sales, and the excellent 3.0-litre straight-six engine in our car shows why. It offers an exceptional mix of torquey pace and decent fuel economy.

Most buyers are expected to specify the new eight-speed automatic gearbox. Again, it’s a pricey £1,495 option, but it shifts gears almost imperceptibly, and suits the large diesel unit well.

Refinement is incredibly impressive – at motorway speeds, the only distraction is a whisper of wind noise from the A-pillars. Our sole criticism is that the hard standard-fit run-flat tyres send thumps through the cabin when you hit a pothole.

Rival: Mercedes E350 CDI
Efficiency is key with the latest E-Class, and the E350 CDI blends a frugal diesel engine with a slick seven-speed auto. It majors on style inside and out – but BMW is better to look at and drive.