What Car? Car of the Year 2005 - Executive car

BMW 525d SE auto
List Price £29,675
Target Price £27,650

Given the comprehensive nature of the 5-series’ victory in this category last year, it’s no surprise to see it take the prize again. Audi and Jaguar present strong challenges to the BMW’s supremacy, but none offer the same outstanding breadth of talent.

We’ve chosen the 525d diesel version over last year’s winner, the 525i petrol, because of its lower running costs. Despite a £675 higher list price, the 525d auto’s lower carbon dioxide emissions mean that fleet users pay £623 less in company car tax per year. Private buyers benefit from higher resale values and an extra 7.7mpg.

It’s not as hushed as the petrol, but the 525d is still impressively refined. There’s no shortfall in performance either, with enough pulling muscle for strong acceleration throughout the rev range.

The 5-series is an outstanding drive. Brilliant body control provides stability on motorways and surprising ability through corners. On winding backroads, the BMW displays a poise none of its rivals can match. Stick to the standard 16-inch alloy wheels and you’ll also get a silky ride.

For space and build quality the car’s cabin is hard to fault. It isn’t cheap to buy, but it’s well-equipped and offers strong residual values too.

Broadband users click here to see our video review of the BMW 5-series

Dial-up users click here to see our video review of the BMW 5-series


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