BMW 5 Series Touring estate

Drive

Despite the addition of a large rear load area, the 5 Series Touring is as good to drive as the saloon. In standard guise the 5 Series is accomplished, but lacks BMW's usual excellence on the road. As with the saloon, we think it's well worth paying for the optional extras that improve the driving experience. This includes Adaptive Drive, which combines with the standard Dynamic Drive Control to provide Normal, Sport and Sport+ driving modes, and adds a softer Comfort setting to the suspension. All engines are strong, including the entry-level four-cylinder units. We’d recommend the 520d if you are looking for a car that blends decent pace and fuel economy. The larger turbocharged six-cylinder engines add strong performance, but unless you plan to tow heavy loads, or you enjoy driving quickly, the smaller engines are more than up to the job of effortless mile munching.

Comfort

The BMW 5 Series Touring builds on the comfort and practicality of the saloon. Its suspension is supple, while engine and road noise are hushed. Only some wind noise is apparent, but that's only noticeable due to the BMW's refinement elsewhere. A long wheelbase means there's decent rear legroom, which allows back seat passengers to be as comfortable as those in the front. With climate control standard in all models, comfort is assured. You would never have to justify the purchase to adults riding in the back.

Reliability

The 5 Series’ minimalist cabin is superbly put together, and features high-class materials and a great finish throughout. As you would expect of a car of this price, safety promises to be class leading, with a Euro NCAP score of five stars. Active safety systems include traction control, while drivers can also specify lane departure warning systems and a head up display. The latter means you don’t have to take your eyes off the road to check speed and satellite navigation functions.

Practicality

With a boot boasting a 560-litre volume, 40/20/40 split-folding seats and the option of Extended Storage - which allows you to fix the rear seatbacks in a more upright position - the 5 Series Touring can offer a decent, if not class-leading amount of space in the back. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate has more room with the seats up or down, as does the Audi A6 Avant. Passenger space is better in the 5 Series though, with more rear legroom than either of its German rivals. 

Value for money

Equipment levels across all models include the basics for the executive class, such as leather seats, a Bluetooth phone connection, plus climate and cruise control. You can spend plenty more on chassis systems that improve the driving experience further, while the options list covers nearly everything you could possibly need. Opt for SE or M Sport trim with an entry-level engine, and the 5 Series is relatively good value.

Running costs

Resale values have traditionally been high for the 5 Series Touring, and the latest car is likely to continue that trend. Running costs should be comparable to rivals, although the 5 Series’ impressively low emissions figures should help out with your tax payments, while good economy thanks to stop-start on the 520d and other energy saving technologies will keep fuel costs in check.