BMW 5 Series: in the metal - Introduction

The new BMW 5 Series is cut from the same cloth as the latest 7 Series and 5 Series GT – it also comes with all their new technology and most of their engines.

For less than £30,000, you're effectively getting a short-wheelbase 7 Series packing more equipment than ever. In real terms, it's also cheaper than the outgoing car.

How does it look?
As well as being four centimetres longer than the current 5 Series, the new car is wider and lower, giving it sportily elegant proportions, with a long bonnet, short overhangs and clean sides.

The wide double grille leans slightly 'into the wind', a throwback to BMWs of the '70s. From the front, the new 5 appears a little like a Z4 roadster, while the rear is more generic BMW.

The lights – white double rings at the front and neon-like bars of red at the rear – are both distinguishing and stylish.