The BMW 5 Series has always been the best car in its class, and the current generation is simply brilliant. It gives a more enjoyable driving experience than the Audi A6 and the Mercedes E-Class, but it is also a very good long distance cruiser. If you account a well equipped and plush cabin, plus an engine range including economical diesels and punchy petrol motors, and you have a superb all-rounder on your hands.

You really can have your cake and eat it with the 5 Series. The 520d Efficient Dynamics is fast but claims 62.8mpg and just 119g/km of CO2 thanks to stop-start, eco tyres, brake energy recovery and clever aerodynamics. The excellent BMW petrol engines and efficient, too, but are simply left behind by the punchy diesels. You’ll need a big wallet for the 550i and M5, but servicing is on par with its Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class competitors, while resale value is absolutely marvellous.