Model tested: BMW 530d M Sport
Price: £36,015
Date tested: July 2007
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 88%
The 5-Series is the standard by which all other large executive saloon cars are judged. This, the fifth generation, has been criticised for its radical looks – so should you try to love those looks, or pass on by?

1. Looks
The 5-Series still looks striking, long after its 2003 launch, but the radical appearance puts conservative buyers off. Whatever your opinion, there are some wonderful styling features throughout.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The controls are laid out intuitively and the dials are among the clearest on the market. BMW's controversial iDrive system (a rotary dial behind the gearstick) controls the functions on the dash-mounted screen; it's intuitive to use.
9/10

3. Practicality
The cabin is roomy and the 500-litre boot is worthy of note, but the rear seats don't fold, although owners can specify a ski hatch which can be retro-fitted. There aren't many cubbyholes either.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
The 5-Series handles better than any large saloon car has a right to. The front engine/rear-wheel drive layout improves weight distribution while the front wheels are there only for steering.
9/10

5. Performance
The headline power output is 235bhp, but it's the 369lb/ft of pulling power which accounts for the ferocious in-gear acceleration. This adds up to a 0-62mph time of 6.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph.
10/10

---

---

6. Running Costs
Despite its size, our 50-Series averaged over 38mpg; the official 44mpg figure is easily within reach. CO2 emissions of 170g/km place it in tax band E (£165 per year), while insurance is group 18.
8/10

7. Reliability
The quality of the materials used and the care taken in the way its built are both superb. It scores well in the Reliability Index which tracks the cheapness and rarity of breakdowns.
9/10

8. Safety
There are front, passenger, front side and head airbags. The steering column collapses to avoid head injuries too but despite this, the 5-Series has just a four-star EuroNCAP rating.
8/10

9. Equipment
All 5-Series come well appointed, with iDrive, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and electric seats. Our 530d M Sport also featured cruise control, hill start assistance, front and rear park sensors, tyre puncture warning system and heated windscreen washer jets.
9/10

10. X-Factor
The 5-Series is the benchmark for executive cars; this latest model keeps it ahead of the pack. The 3-litre diesel in the 530d is a sensational powerplant, making it one of the best drives available at any price.
10/10