BMW has unveiled the new 5 series Touring, which will go on sale in the UK next year commanding an £1,800 premium over new 5 series saloon models launched earlier this year. Five engine variants will be available with the 528i and 525tds arriving first in April followed by the 520i and 523i and the 286bhp 4.4-litre eight cylinder 540i completing the range in September.

Both standard and specification models will be offered and all models will be equipped with self-levelling suspension. The new model is 1.2 inches (3 cms) longer than the saloon and uses the same lightweight aluminium suspension components which reduce unsprung weight and improve ride quality. But, completely new, is a redesigned compact rear axle with dampers lying almost horizontally which precludes the necessity for turrets intruding into the load space thereby giving a flat, wide and long luggage area.