Above: The evolution of the 5-series from 1972 to the most recent model.

Since 1972 BMW have been building their 5-Series Executive cars and we are now into its sixth incarnation.

One thing that has stayed true to BMW throughout its 40+ years of the 5-series though, is they always set the benchmark for their competitors and they really know how to make strong, solid executive cars.

The Sixth incarnation of the BMW 5-Series

The Sixth incarnation is of course no exception and as always it’s handsome with sleek and elegant lines although this time, maybe a little more conservative styling wise. The EfficientDynamics kit available on the 520d also includes stop-start technology that cuts the engine in queuing traffic to save fuel and allowing the 520d to reach an amazing 62.8mpg.

All of this ensures that the 5-series isn’t just about looks and comfort but it’s economical too whilst still being fun to drive.

Above: the BMW 5-Series AC Schnitzer edition.

As standard on all 5-series now is a ‘Driving Experience Control’ which lets you set your car to Sport Plus, Sport, and Comfort or, as in the four- and six-cylinder cars, Eco Pro.

This control alters accelerator response, steering weight and ESP settings and in the Eco Pro mode, will even alter the air-con ensuring it runs as economically as possible.

Sleek and slender lines run the entire length of the body and merge into the intricate rear tail light design.

To drive, the 5-series blends comfort and excellent handling effortlessly and more so than any previous incarnation, or any other BMW in fact, before it. It’s as cosseting as luxury cars that cost a lot, lot more. The suspension balances refinement and sporting ability and with the double glazed front windows you get barely any road noise with much smoother engine notes.

The cabin, as always, is superbly put together, finished with high-class materials throughout and as you would expect of any modern BMW, the 5-series comes with a full 5 star Euro NCAP safety rating.

The luxurious cabin providing gadgets galore and comfort normally seen only in cars with much greater price tags.

So in conclusion, the 5-series provides superb comfort, huge occupant space in both front and rear and is surprisingly still fun to drive, whilst at the same time delivering both mpg and CO2 levels that rival a supermini.

What more could you ask for? To see our current deals on the BMW 5-series click here.

For more photos please click the thumbnails below.