This is the one everyone with an interest in the executive car sector has been waiting for: the first UK test of BMW’s all-new 5 Series, in serially-popular 520d trim. It’s the version that sells the best, by far – if there’s a version BMW simply has to get right, it’s this one.
Under the bonnet, things are familiar. The rest of it is all-new, but the 188bhp engine is used in umpteen other BMW Group cars (and was also, along with the eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, used in this car’s predecessor).
It means there are no surprises in terms of performance. It’s not the newest engine around, but it’s strong and effortless, with swift acceleration and seamless gearshifts. It’s quiet too, certainly more refined than a comparable Mercedes-Benz E-Class or Jaguar XF. Only the Audi A6 aces it for peacefulness.
People buy BMWs for how they handle. Good news here. Body control is excellent, with none of the wallow you get in cars such as the E-Class. OK, a Jaguar XF is even keener to respond, and delivers a bit more feel through its steering, but the BMW still impresses and the 50/50 weight distribution means it’s very well balanced.
Speaking of balance, the trade-off between ride and handling is also a good one, particularly if you avoid over-large alloy wheels but choose the optional adaptive dampers. So equipped, the 5 Series floats down the road with effortless finesse, delivering a ride better even than a Mercedes-Benz. Truly impressive stuff.
Things have evolved inside, too. Perhaps not so much at first glance, as the layout remains familiar. But the step on in detailing is huge, with features such as the peerless freestanding infotainment screen and fully-electronic instrument pack making the differences over the old machine obvious. Quality is exceptional too.
The only area it stumbles in is rear-seat space, and even this is relative; it’s more because a Volvo S90 or E-Class is so spacious that the BMW feels a bit tight. It’s still better than the old one though, and to most, that’s all that matters.
BMW has given us a tremendously accomplished executive car with the new 5 Series. It handles well, rides beautifully, both cossets and engages its occupants, and feels every inch the downsized 7 Series. Be in absolutely no doubt, this is the new executive saloon class-leader. BMW has done it again.
Price £36,205
Engine 1995cc 4 cylinder, turbocharged, diesel
Power 188bhp at 4000rpm
Torque 295lb ft at 1750rpm
Gearbox Eight-speed, automatic
Kerb weight 1615kg
0-62mph 7.5secs
Top speed 146mph
Economy 68.1mpg
CO2/tax band 108g/km, 21%
