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If you've read our review of the latest BMW 5 Series saloon you won't be massively surprised to learn that the Touring version is equally as good but with the added bonus of extra practicality. This is the fourth generation of the 5 Series Touring and it has the largest ever luggage capacity with 560 litres of boot space - although if it's outright carrying capacity you're after the E-Class still leads the way in this class with 695 litres.

But there's far more to the latest 5 Series Touring than boot space. Like the saloon version it's great to drive and handles superbly well for a car this size with a great suspension set-up that balances body control with a supple ride. Some may argue that the steering lacks the feel of the previous 5 Series. That's true to an extent, but you can happily forgive it that when you look at its overall qualities.

It's a great all-rounder that's as happy pounding the motorway with a full load of kids and shopping in the back as it is tackling twisty and demanding roads. Refinement is a real strength too with very little noise either from the road or the engine. Add in a high quality cabin and it's easy to see why this is the best executive estate around.

Equipment levels are impressive too and all models get Dakota leather upholstery, automatic air conditioning, self-levelling rear air suspension, Bluetooth plus both front and rear parking sensors. Most buyers opt for the 520d which is incredibly efficient for any car - let alone one this size. It has 184bhp but thanks to BMW's Efficient Dynamics programme which includes an engine start/stop function, emits just 135g/km of CO2 and averages a claimed 54.4mpg.