Ultimate BMW 5 Series buyer's guide - Introduction

The BMW 5 Series range offers two bodystyles, nine engines, three transmissions, 30 versions costing from £29,430 – £55,850, and a vast choice of 88 options.

So, how do you decide what's best for you? You can tailor your car in exactly the way you want it, but there can be pitfalls.

Picking the wrong kit can be expensive, because many options won't add significant value when you come to sell on. However, there are also extras that will have a much more positive effect on its resale value.

We've featured BMW's 5 Series because it offers so many options, and because it's a popular executive choice. However, BMW is far from alone, most of the premium manufacturers offer equally expansive options lists.

Increasingly, this breadth of choice is also applied to more affordable cars such as the Audi A1, Citroen DS3, Fiat 500 and Mini.

So whether you're buying a 5 Series or a supermini, you'll find plenty of tips when it comes to configuring your next new car.