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| Tailgate 'annoying' |
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Of more concern on the feedback front is the (optional) Active Steering, which varies the steering ratio according to speed. Its non-linear response can be disconcerting at first, with the wheel weighting up unexpectedly, though it's easy to get used to - which then begs the question of why pay for something you'd eventually hardly notice, especially when the steering is so gratifyingly direct and sharp in standard form. It seems a case of technology for technology's sake, rather than a really useful application.
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| Driver gets head-up display |
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And that's the verdict on the Touring tailgate, too: in theory, a remote-opening release sounds great, saving from dirtying hands or putting loads down, but it's none too quick to respond, and the automatic operation applies to closing the tailgate as well. There's no chance to simply slam it shut: you have to wait for it to lower itself. Annoying rather than life-enhancing. The boot itself is larger than that of its predecessor, though opting for a 'real' spare wheel rather than the run-flat tyres cuts the space by 35 litres, and flat-floored; it has a lockable compartment floor with storage boxes and folding partitions, as well as a ski hatch, roll-out load area cover, a power socket and four lashing points. It's versatile, if not as cavernous in dimensions as either the E-Class or A6 estates.
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The 5-Series Touring will probably be bought by those who really want a BMW first and foremost, but have to opt for an estate for practical reasons. It's not necessarily going to be the first choice for dedicated load-luggers - that honour remains with the E-Class, or Volvo's V70, still the obvious choices in this class for the pragmatically-minded. But minor niggles apart, the Touring does manage to be a true BMW without compromises, and for that it must be applauded.
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