STATE-of-the-art technology and class-leading engine performance are the two principle messages of the new 5-series, BMW has revealed this week.

The new car, which goes on sale in the UK in September will use a combination of lightweight aluminium chassis and body panels with uprated petrol 2.0-litre, 3.0-litre and 3.0 diesel engines at launch. Torque figures for the diesel have increased from 302lb-ft to 369lb-ft. BMW claims fuel economy will be 31.3, 29.7 and 40.9mpg, with improved acceleration figures. The firm is banking on its performance and agility being the best in sector, traits which were the undisputed crown of the previous model.

The 5-series (pictured) will also be offered with a raft of new technology, including a new, simpler-to-use iDrive system, adaptive headlights, Dynamic Drive Control, Active Cruise Control, Active Front Steering and Brake Force Display, which warns drivers behind of heavy braking by using LEDs to enlarge the brake light area.

Later models of the car will also be available with a head-up display on the windscreen. Following the initial launch, BMW will roll out 2.5-litre and V8 4.4-litre petrol engined models in October.

Jim O'Donnell, BMW GB's managing director, said: 'The new 5-series is incredibly important to us. It represents the heart of BMW and has become the UK's number one executive car, both in sales charts and in independent polls.'

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