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BMW 5 Series Review & Road Test

Review by www.new-car-reviews.co.uk

Summary
How do you improve on a vehicle that has a cupboard full of motoring accolades and is widely regarded as the most accomplished car in its class? Ask BMW. The new 5 -Series manages to retain all that was great about the previous model and raises the bar a notch for the competition. In reality only the new Mercedes E-Class is a serious contender for its crown.

The new design is more dynamic than its predecessor and follows BMW's new design themes - also obvious on the new BMW Z4. The car is also lighter than its predecessor thanks to a part aluminum body. Practically, the new 5 Series is now longer and wider and can therefore address the only niggle with its predecessor, rear passenger legroom is greatly improved and the boot is now a match for the E-Class.

Under the skin the new 5-Series BMW has implemented a number of innovations; firstly Active Steering that automatically alters the steering ratio according to speed (a production car first) , run-flat tyres and jet fighter style head up display (that projects information onto the windscreen in the drivers line of sight) to name a few. Inside the cabin the new iDrive system is much simpler to use and is linked to a dash mounted display. Seating and steering adjustments are also excellent.

The ride and handling of the new 5-Series in standard form is superb and can be further enhanced through the Dynamic Drive system that keeps the car flatter in faster cornering manouevres. The 5-Series is also remarkably nimble around town thanks to the Active Steering system that reduces the steering ratio at lower speeds.

Engine options include four petrol units at 2.0, 2.3, 3.0 and 4.5 litres and two turbo-diesels at 2.5 and 3.0 litres. At the top of the range the 4.5 litre V8 unit manages 0-62 mph in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 155mph.

Cruising at higher motorway speeds, the 5-Series once again retains the qualities of its predecessor providing a relaxed and hushed environment, wind, road and engine noise are all absent.

NCAP safety and security test
NCAP crash test result - Not tested at time of writing
NCAP pedestrian test rating - Not tested at time of writing

Review ©2006 New-car-reviews.co.uk

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