Key facts:
Model tested: BMW 530d SE Saloon
Price: £37,100
Date tested: July 2010
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Ten Point Test
Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 88%
The BMW 5-Series has long been the benchmark for executive saloons. Now in its sixth generation, the competition from Audi, Jaguar and Mercedes has closed the gap. Is it still one of the world's best cars?

1. Looks 8/10
After the radical looks of the previous 5-Series, this incarnation is decidedly conservative. It's handsome though, with sleek, elegant lines and while it doesn't stand out like the old model, it's a good alternative to the Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class.

2. Looks inside 8/10
The interior is constructed with stunning care and attention to detail. It features BMW's iDrive control interface, the controls are simply laid out and the optional Head-up Display keeps the driver's eyes on the road.

3. Practicality 8/10
A 520-litre boot isn't class-leading but it's still capacious; it's just a shame folding rear seats aren't standard. There's enormous space front and rear while parking sensors are standard.

4. Ride and Handling 9/10
This 5-Series is much more comfortable than its predecessor and is incredibly comfortable. Little driving excitement has been lost through making the Five more comfortable and only a slight vagueness in the steering blots the copybook. Drive Dynamic Control is an optional system which can make the car more comfortable, or more sporting at the touch of a button.

5. Performance 10/10
Seven engine choices are offered - three diesel and four petrol. The diesel range starts with the 184bhp 520d giving 0-62mph in 8.1 seconds and a 141mph maximum. The 3-litre 525d offers 147mph while the 530d is limited to 155mph. The engine is muscular, smooth and quiet, and is one of the best diesel engines available.

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6. Running Costs 8/10
The 5-Series is well equipped as standard, but there are still plenty of pricey options. The diesels are economical and clean with the 520d the star performer, emitting just 132g/km of CO2 and returning more than 50mpg.

7. Reliability 9/10
BMW consistently engineers its cars to a high degree and has built a superb reputation for reliability.

8. Safety 10/10
The 5-Series has a five-star EuroNCAP rating. Standard kit includes driver, front passenger, front and side airbags; whiplash-reducing headrests, cruise control with brake function, anti-lock brakes, traction, stability and cornering brake controls systems and a bonnet with pops-up to minimise injuries to pedestrians.

9. Equipment 9/10
All 5-Series have alloy wheels, leather seats, heated electric mirrors, two-zone air-con, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, Bluetooth, and a 7-inch colour screen with iDrive control.

10. X-Factor 9/10
The car that set the benchmark for what a large, executive saloon should be capable of retains its crown. It's spectacularly comfortable and is still great fun to drive; it's just a shame it doesn't look more striking.