BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

BMW says it’s a blend of saloon, estate, and even SUV. On paper, it seems an odd proposal but, from the consumer’s perspective, the 5 Series Gran Turismo is a car that will convince the moment they drive it.

Comfort, refinement, space and driving dynamics are all vital for grand tourers and this BMW excels on all points. It has the interior space of a 7 Series but the functionality of a
5 Series, plus a slightly raised driving position and the second largest boot space of all BMW products (only X5 has larger). 

It also has a dual-action boot, to give saloon or hatchback-style access as required.

The aim of Gran Turismo, says BMW, is to give customers “additional choice”, as its research found many SUV, saloon and estate owners felt they had compromised in some way.

Ahead of its launch, BMW showed the car to 25,000 UK consumers and found those most likely to buy it were estate or SUV drivers, or early adopters.

Three models are on offer. The diesel 530d is expected to take 90% of annual sales of around 2,500 units, with the remainder split between two petrols: a 535i with a single turbo six-cylinder and the turbocharged V8 550i.

Existing BMW customers are expected to account for half of orders.