• PHEV promises low running costs…
• … providing you plug in regularly
• Unlimited mileage warranty

What are the running costs?

A 520i is capable of nearly 49mpg according to the official figures, and we found low to mid-forties MPG was achievable with gentle driving. BMW has ditched the diesel 5 Series for the UK market – so, if you want to eke the greatest number of miles from a gallon of fuel, you’ll need to opt for one of the PHEVs.

The 550e makes some impressive efficiency claims. BMW reckons it can achieve upwards of 313mpg on the WLTP combined cycle – but that figure assumes you’re maximising the car’s claimed 56-mile electric only range. Under real-world testing with a flat battery, we found the 550e’s fuel economy fell in the mid-30mpg range, while it managed 45 miles on electricity with a full battery.

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To get the best from the car, you’ll want to invest in a wallbox charger so you can top its battery up every night. BMW says it takes three hours and 15 minutes to completely recharge the 550e’s battery from a 7.4kW charger – and almost 12 hours from a three-pin plug.

Servicing and warranty

BMW has a choice of service plans for the 5 Series to help you spread the cost of maintenance. The first is called BMW Service Inclusive, and you pay for it in one lump sum. It covers the cost of your car’s first four years of maintenance. You can also subscribe to BMW’s monthly service payment plan.

Every new BMW comes with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty. That mileage allowance is generous, but the overall length of the warranty pales in comparison to the seven-year package available from Kia or the 10-year deal offered by Toyota and Lexus.