Until the arrival of the Jaguar XF, the BMW 5-Seies was the undisputed executive car king. But its blend of qualities is still strong, even in the face of the British newcomer’s victory.

Styling/Image

When the current 5-Series arrived in 2004, it causes a stir among BMW fans. With bold lines and deep flanks it was a radical departure from its predecessor. Voted Best Executive Car at our New Car Honours 2006, the line-up consists of saloon and estate bodystyles, with a wide range of engines including four-cylinder, straight six and V8 units, as well as four highly popular diesels. Standard trim levels are SE and M Sport, while wild V10-engined M5 tops the range.

Interior/Practicality

Overall levels of standard equipment are high, although items such as an iPod connection and Xenon headlamps are relegated to the expensive options list. However, you can expect to see electric seats, a CD player and the iDrive multimedia system fitted to most models. The estate-bodied Touring holds a great deal of appeal, as well as decent amounts of luggage, although it can’t match the Mercedes E-Class wagon for carrying capacity.

Engine/Performance

The BMW is a serious sports saloon, with most engines providing the 5-Series with strong performance. Driving fans will love the supercar humbling M5 and its incredible 5.0-litre V10 motor. However, our choice for performance is the twin-turbocharged diesel-powered 535d, which will scorch from zero to 60mph in 6.4 seconds, but still return 42mpg. Company car buyers should consider the economical, entry-level 520d, while the silky smooth straight-six engine in the 530i make it the petrol choice.

Driving experience

All versions of the 5-Series feature the same well-balanced handling that has become a BMW trademark. Adding the M Sport kit will result in sharpened driving dynamics, which is thanks to more focused suspension settings. You’ll also get heavily bolstered bucket seats, bigger alloys and a neat bodykit. The only trade-off is a slightly firmer ride. Active Steering is also available as an option. It increases accuracy on fast, twisty roads and reduces effort at parking speeds.

Ownership Costs

BMW’s three-year service and maintenance pack provides a complete peace of mind. But unless you cover high mileages, it doesn’t always represent good value. Residuals are, however, excellent for the class, which is good news come resale time. The 520d is the most cost-effective 5-Series, serving-up a winning combination of low CO2 emissions and 55mpg fuel returns.

Safety/Environment

BMW are doing more than most to reduce its emissions. Start/stop technology, regenerative braking and lightweight materials all feature in its Efficient Dynamics philosophy. Almost all the engines in the 5-Series range are either new, or have been enhanced to boost performance and economy. In terms of safety, the 5-Series is a Euro NCAP five star car with plenty of standard safety aids – only rear side airbags and night vision are extra cost options.

Our Choice: BMW 5 Series 525d SE