The 5-Series has been the most popular executive car in a market dominated by German models, including the Mercedes E-Class and Audi A6, and the outgoing model is a hard act to better. BMW has responded by throwing technology into the mix. The new Five is the first car in the world to feature Active Steering, a system which alters the steering ratio according to speed, plus Dynamic Drive low-roll suspension, jet fighter-style head-up displays, run-flat tyres and adaptive headlights, though disappointingly, all these developments are extra-cost options. But as standard, you get a lighter part-aluminium body, improved aerodynamics, a modified and more user-friendly iDrive control system, a roomier cabin, a bigger boot and the general improvements that come with every new model (in theory). This new Five is also more boldly styled, the third production BMW to follow the company's controversial design direction started by the controversial 7-Series and unusual Z4 roadster. All this means that the Five is setting a new benchmark in this market sector.