The iconic BMW 5 series has become the benchmark executive saloon, so there is a lot riding on the latest evolution.
Motors is at BMW's European 5 Series launch base in Portugal where we're testing the latest 530d (245bhp) and 535i (306bhp) on a combination of roads and surfaces.
The new 5, due in Ireland in March, is now in its sixth generation, looks sleeker than the outgoing model and in the 'flesh' much more like a 3 Series Coupe than a 5. This is mostly due to the car's very long wheelbase. The new 5's styling is interesting on closer examination and still true to Chris Bangle's striking original. The aluminium bonnet features muscular creases and the car's side bodylines make the car even fresher than the original Bangle 5 that still is today a very modern looking car. The front wings and doors are also made of lightweight aluminium.
Inside the comfortable cabin our test cars come loaded with every toy imaginable. So, while the base price promises to be tempting, remember to factor in a few quid for optional extras. Active steering, however, is a must for those who like enthusiastic driving. It basically allows you enjoy slow speed driving thanks to the steering wheel requiring fewer turns lock to lock than at higher speeds.
The list of acronyms and driving aids is formidable but well worth a closer look. For the first time the new 5 Series comes with a Parking Assistant, a collision warning and brake initiation function in conjunction with Active Cruise Control and Stop & Go. Surround View and the Speed Limit Device are also available in the new model. Further options include Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info, a High-Beam Assistant and BMW Night Vision that is able to detect individual persons in darkness! Park Distance Control and a back-up camera are also available.
BMW has announced the engine range for Europe from launch, which is topped off by the V8 petrol engine in the 550i that produces 407bhp. There are three six-cylinder petrol engines (535i, 528i, 523i), two six-cylinder diesels (530d, 525d) and one four-cylinder (the 520d). In Ireland the 520d with just 132g/CO2 will be the runaway big seller and with an average fuel consumption of just 5 litres per 100 kilometres (or 56.5mpg) it will be the no-brainer choice for most buyers. M5 and Touring versions will come later.
On the motorway, as you'd expect, the new 5 excels. The petrol-powered 535i gives off a lovely rasp when accelerating hard, while the diesel's urge and low-end power is very impressive. Handling is improved thanks to a body that is 55% stiffer than the outgoing car. In the twisting hills outside Lisbon the big five-seat saloon shrinks around you. In no time the car lets you slip into a flow and rhythm that is a joy.
The new BMW 5 remains the car to beat in this sector despite some remarkable rivals like the Jaguar XF and Mercedes Benz E Class.
Michael Sheridan
