BMW 5-Series Saloon (10 on) - Review

BMW is renowned for building cars that are great to drive but sometimes at the expense of comfort. However that's not the case with the 5-Series. It's the most complete executive saloon on the market and manages to blend superb handling with limousine-like comfort as well as unsurpassed cabin refinement. The elegant styling gives it a larger appearance than the previous model and is more akin to the bigger 7-Series, which is also the case with the upmarket cabin. Compared to its predecessor, this 5-Series feels more sophisticated and has the edge over alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The engine line-up is hugely impressive, with every model, even the entry-level 520d, offering great performance. It's also incredibly well equipped and all models get leather seats, parking sensors and Bluetooth. This is the car that truly sets a new standard for executive saloons. The BMW 5-Series is such a well-rounded car that it's hard to beat - especially when you take into consideration how good it is to drive, the excellent levels of standard equipment and its wallet-friendly fuel economy. With all this in its favour, the BMW 520d SE Business Media Saloon romped away with the 2011 Parkers Cost of Motoring award in the Executive sector.