The 5-Series has class-leading resistance to depreciation, but servicing won’t be cheap. When buying new, customers can choose a fixed-price servicing, or servicing and maintenance pack to cover the car for five years/60,000 miles. At least it means owners wont have to worry about the cost of servicing for a few years. Engines are pretty good for fuel consumption, particularly the diesels.

However, from May 2007 modification to the engines have resulted in some very impressive fuel consumption figures.

The 5-Series scored fairly badly on the eco front, but when it was facelifted in 2007 (and Efficient Dynamics introduced) economy improved greatly. The best model is the 520d which now emits 140g/km of CO2 and is capable of 53mpg.

The 5-Series has been quite reliable so far, so well-maintained car shouldn’t be hiding any nasty surprises for future owners.