With its striking lines and near perfect balance between comfort and handling, the 5 Series really is a driver’s car.

When pushed hard, the engines make a suitably sporting bark. Opt for a more relaxed style, however, and they are muted. The diesels are a shade more audible than their petrol counterparts, but they make a sporting thrum rather than an unpleasant clatter. Wind and road noise are well contained at motorway speeds

From £429 / month – 36 months