Developed under the codename ‘F10′, the BMW 5-Series softens the harder lines of the previous generation E60 with more integral-looking headlights and a cleaner front-end design. From the rear, the new 5 Series looks sleek and sporting. The optional 19-inch wheels on our press car ended flush with the wheel arches and accentuated the car’s hindquarters. L-shaped rear light clusters incorporating LED lights are in line with the company’s new signature look.

As is typical of most recent BMW redesigns, this 5-Series adds some space between the wheels by extending the wheelbase by 88 mm and widening the track. The car’s overall length has grown by 40 mm, while its height is slightly reduced and its width increased by a fraction. The new 5 Series features a 55% stiffer chassis while at the same time managing a weight reduction of 50 kilograms with the use of more aluminium in the bonnet, front fenders and passenger doors.

Under the skin, the 5-Series features – for the first time – an aluminium, double-wishbone front axle and multi-link rear axle – as found on the 7 Series and 5 Series GT models. EPS, or Electric Power Steering, is a first for the 5 Series and its segment, and is combined with BMW’s Dynamic Drive Control (DDC) as standard across the 5 Series range. Whereas conventional steering uses a hydraulic/mechanical setup to turn the front wheels, EPS relies on an electric motor to achieve the same results.

The DDC offers Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ suspension modes, which all offer different levels of damping and steering sensitivity, depending on driver preference for the speed and road conditions. Normal and Sport modes proved adequate for the daily commute, while Comfort softened the suspension a bit too much, resulting in a wallowing sensation inside the car. On longer journeys, the Sport mode gives the car a more reassuring and planted attitude, allowing for rapid progress if desired.

In addition to EPS, handling of the new car is further enhanced courtesy of Integral Active Steering. Previously available only on the 7 Series, when fitted with this option the 5 Series benefits from rear-wheel steering by up to 2.5 degrees. Up to speeds of 60 km/h the rear axle turns in the opposite direction to the front, thereby requiring less effort to turn and reducing the turning circle by 0.5 metres. Beyond 60 km/h the rear axle turns parallel with the front, again requiring less steering input and offering improved high-speed stability.

Of course the new 5 Series is loaded with safety equipment. Suffice to say it has just about all you could think of and more – such as Dry Braking function that optimises brake performance in the wet, by imperceptibly applying the brakes at regular intervals, to keep the discs dry. Buyers have the choice of 17-inch wheels as standard, or a set of either 18- or 19-inch alloys.

The straight-six with TwinPower Turbo in the BMW 535i delivers maximum output of 225 kW, 400 N.m of torque and average consumption of 8.4 l/100km. The 535i boasts the most powerful of the manufacturer’s straight-six engines; the first to combine BMW’s High Precision Direct Injection system and variable valve management, allowing intake valve length and timing to be infinitely tweaked for power, torque and efficiency. The engine sends drive to the rear-wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, which forms part of the BMW Efficient Dynamics package, also now standard on all 5 Series models. Trundling around town, the gearbox seems a bit spoilt for choice and can find itself in two minds when deciding which gear to use. However, the transmission is a pleasure at highway speeds, thanks to the many cogs on offer that help provide smooth and responsive power delivery.

Despite the performance potential (0 – 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds), the BMW 535i remains a relaxing and undemanding drive. The iDrive infotainment system has been refined to offer access to information and functions in a format that’s simpler than ever before. A standard 7-inch colour display complements the system perfectly, dominating the central dash. 3D sat-nav mapping and the option of impressive ‘birds-eye’ reversing and ‘nosing-out’ front bumper cameras, boost the premium nature of the car, along with mood lighting. Further technology is also available on the latest 5 Series to keep occupants entertained, comfortable and safe. These include ‘Parking Assistant’, ‘Surround View’ and collision warning with application of the brakes in conjunction with ‘Active Cruise Control’ plus ‘Stop & Go’. Further features also available are ‘Lane Change Warning’, ‘Lane Departure Warning’, a Head-Up Display, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, and a back-up camera. In short, the 5 Series now boasts much of the comfort and convenience of the 7 Series, but in a more dynamic package.

Long distance driving fails to take its toll, with the longer wheelbase ensuring rear passengers are kept comfortable with ample legroom, while the sloping roofline fails to intrude on rear headroom. A relatively narrow boot, although hardly lacking in depth, is the only potential squeeze in terms of space, despite there being 20 more litres on offer than the bigger 7 Series at 520-litres.

Now in its sixth-generation, the performance, technology, comfort and dynamics of the BMW 5 Series look set to perpetuate its success as a top choice for executives world-wide.

What we like…

• New styling. Yes, it’s more conventional than before but it’s arguably sleeker and more befitting of the 5′s character.
• Smooth and refined ride quality.
• Powerful and torquey engine for effortless pace.

What we would like…

• More intuitive transmission behaviour in stop/start driving conditions.