One of the technological highlights of the, Active Steering, is standard equipment on all BMW 5 series including the entry level 525i.Though the system incorporates Servotronic, this is substantially more than just speed-sensitive power steering. Not only does the system deliver variable steering ratio but it also incorporates its own yaw sensors and computer control to intervene if the car becomes unstable.

Front passengers have never been short of room in the 5. Rear knee room is substantially improved, not least because BMW has heavily scalloped the back of the front seats.. This is a BMW! A centre ‘big screen’ takes care of iDrive-related duties (climate, audio and navigation and television is fitted) while the driver’s binnacle is dominated by dual main gauges.

Big and easy at first glance, these are flanked by fuel level and economy sub-dials. Behind the speedo there is the cruise control telltale. Onboard computer functions appear on the dash as do a host of warning lights/systems.

The steering wheel, with cruise and audio controls, is height and reach adjustable — as you’d expect. The cornering potential of the Dynamic Drive equipped 530i soon found out the limitations of the standard leather-clad seats, however. They’re comfortable and provide lots of electrically-actuated adjustment but lack lateral support.The 525i makes do with front seats that adjust electrically for height and backrest angle.

. You’ll be hard-pressed to fit a wallet in the double-decker centre console and the door pockets are small and hard to access.

On the passive front there are ten airbags which are deployed faster thanks to smarter crash sensing electronics. Seat belt pretensioners and active head rests for front seat occupants are all standard equipment.

Both the 530i and 545i get 17-inch alloy wheels (the 525 gets 16s) and run flat tyres are also standard fitment though a space saver spare is supplied.

Run flats offer an extra degree of security on the open road, but you pay for the convenience and safety. Run flat on the tyres and they almost always end up as throwaways. Find Used Renault Cars Mayo.ie to select the vehicle of your choice.

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