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  • Road Test: BMW 5-Series (2003-)
    Executive by: Richard Bremner
    BMW 5-Series (03- )
    SAFETY AND SECURITY RATING:

    It has an impressive array of passive safety features, but surprisingly, the 5 didn't get the full five stars for occupant protection in the Euro NCAP crash tests. It scored four, with an additional four for child protection (with BMW's approved child seats) and a disappointing one star for pedestrian protection. Superb roadholding, agile handling and powerful brakes make it easier to avoid an accident in the first place, however, especially with the standard skid-countering fitment of DSC dynamic stability control. However, the optional Active Steering, which alters the extent that the car changes direction for a given swivel of the wheel, can surprise. Get used to the speed of its response at low speeds, and you can find yourself failing to turn the wheel sufficiently when you move to faster, curvy roads - a potentially alarming experience.

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    Introduction The 5-Series has been the most popular executive car in a market domin...

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     BEST EXECUTIVE CARS

    Want to know the best cars in this class? Here's our current picks.

    BMW 5-Series
    Audi A6
    Lexus GS

    See Best Executive Cars In Class