Pretty new BMW 5 Series parks itself

BMW released full details of its sixth-generation 5 Series saloon. Building on the tremendous success of the outgoing car, the new version adopts BMW's latest design language and aims to improve on all areas, focusing on efficiency, technology and a generous standard specification.

At launch, buyers will have the option of four petrol engines and two turbodiesel units, with CO₂ emissions as low as 132g/km in the 520d (though this version arrives a few months later). Unsurprisingly, this entry-level model will be the best seller in Europe and though it boasts combined economy of 56.5mpg, its 2.0-litre diesel engine puts out 181bhp and 280lb.ft of torque, which helps explain its commendable 0-62mph time of 8.1 seconds.

If it's performance you're interested in then the new twin-turbo 550i may be just your cup of tea. Powered by a 401bhp V8, this sports saloon covers the benchmark acceleration sprint in a scant five seconds - comparable to many a sportscar.

Between the extremes of the range lie the 525d and 530d six-cylinder turbodiesels, 523i and 528i naturally aspirated petrol models and the turbocharged, petrol-fuelled 535i. Emissions vary from 132- to 243g/km, with combined economy of 56.5- to 27.2mpg.

Much of the new technology and design detailing of the 5 Series was previewed by the 7 Series - and indeed the 5 Series Gran Turismo - but BMW has taken steps to give the saloon its own distinct aesthetic personality.

In terms of value for money, all versions of the new 5 Series come with a leather interior, Bluetooth telephony and 'BMW Professional Radio' as standard - on top of the specification already established by its predecessor. Additionally, a USB interface is standard on most models and an eight-speed automatic transmission will be available for the first time in the 5 Series.

Other niceties carried over from the 7 Series include the Drive Dynamic Chassis (DDC) system (which allows the driver to choose between Comfort, Sport and Sport+ settings) and the stylish 'Black Panel' interior instrumentation.

One of the most interesting options is Park Assist, which alerts a driver when it senses a space large enough to park in and then does all the steering while he just operates the throttle and brake pedals.

Although the new 5 Series doesn't go on sale until March 2010, interested buyers can keep up to date on developments by signing up at www.bmw.co.uk/5series.

Shane O' Donoghue