WHILE the majority of biggish executive cars in the UK tend to major on comfort, one of my class favourites takes things more than a notch further.
The latest BMW 5 Series adds to the mix that feeling of being surrounded by peace of mind security.
For, cocooned within this icon of German engineering, driver and passengers can immerse themselves in a highly cosseting comfort zone which bears all the hallmarks of having taken personal safety to an even higher plane.
Sitting on a longer wheelbase than the outgoing model, this BMW saloon enjoys a greater feeling of interior space thanks to the 2,968mm wheelbase length.
This translates into an extra 13mm of knee room for rear seat occupants while the 520 litre boot comes with the option to specify 60/40 split folding rear seats.
There are more than sufficient toys to keep the most ardant techo fan occupied. Leading the way is the latest generation of the BMW iDrive audio and communication system which is now much more user friendly than its predecessor.
Also on hand is the park and distance Control which alerts drivers to the proximity of solid objects with warnings coming in audio and visual form via sensors at each corner of the car.
In addition, a comprehensive box of goodies includes the likes of eight-speed automatic transmission, media package, visibility package, sunroof, head up display and electrically adjustable seating.
However, it’s worth remembering that the more desirable add-ons you take on board, the more strain you can put your wallet under.
The beautifully laid out interior has been well thought through, a number of features such as marvellously clear analogue dials in a well laid out dash, the asymmetrically designed centre console which ensures that all controls are comfortably within reach, plus the multifunctional steering wheel with functional keys in one hand and infotainment on the other.
The clever way the centre console has been inclined towards the driver proves another big plus.
Boasting BMW's highest level of standard specification, all 5 Series models come with leather seats, air con, radio/CD player and Bluetooth telephone set up while driver safety items include dynamic stability control consisting of automatic stability control, cornering brake control, dynamic brake control and dynamic traction control.
Driven here is the BMW 530d SE with styling that reflects its almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution illustrating that this is a car of superbly well balanced proportions.
Short overhangs, a coupe-esque flowing roofline and a long contoured bonnet holding BMW's trademark kidney grille all added to the attraction.
Paired with a slick switching six-speed manual gear change the hugely capable 3.0-litre 218bhp diesel engine houses some pretty awesome torque levels successfully designed to make motorway overtaking a dream.
This 5 Series drives beautifully, responding sharply to the fully electric steering while the traditional BMW rear wheel drive helps to deliver a solidly secure feeling, particularly through bends.
The 5 Series also keeps road and engine noise intrusion to an absolute minimum making the 530d a superbly refined road car which features much improved ride quality over its predecessor.
A mid-40s mpg return proves a further plus for this size of car.
Overall, this sixth generation of a car first seen on UK roads in 1972, is yet another triumph for the Bavarian car maker.
Perhaps the new shape may not suit everyone but the latest BMW 5 Series is certainly one extremely engaging executive express.
FAST FACTS
BMW 530d SE Saloon
Price: £37,100
Mechanical: 245bhp, 2,993cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving rear wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 155mph
0-62mph: 6.3 seconds
Combined mpg: 44.8
CO2 emissions: 166g/km
Insurance group: 40
BiK rating: 21%
Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles
Words: Malcolm Robertshaw