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It uses a newly developed version of BMW’s highly regarded three-litre turbo diesel, with Munich’s first two-stage turbocharger system. The first turbo gives a quick boost at low revs, while the second comes in at higher engine speeds.

As well as increasing the maximum revs of the engine by 500rpm to 4800rpm, the new system offers torque to an extent which makes my eyes water while writing this. The quoted figure is 412lb/ft, which is simply colossal from a three-litre diesel, to go with a power output of 272bhp.

BMW says the 535d will do the 0-62mph dash in 6.6 seconds, and it’s a fair bet that there will have to be a governor to keep the top speed down to 155mph. Like the launch engines, the 535d is Euro IV compliant.

There’s no price yet for the 535d, although that may not stop prospective buyers fumbling for their cheque books already.   

Transmissions And So On

All the Tourings will have six-speed transmissions, with a manual gearbox as standard, while Steptronic and SMG Sequential Manual Gearboxes are extra-cost options, the latter only for the 525i and 545i models at launch, with steering wheel paddles.

Of course, while there are arguments about the visual appeal of the 5-Series saloon, nobody has ever quibbled about the power to weight ratio, and there won’t be any moans on that score with the Touring, which shares its aluminium chassis, bonnet, wings, suspension units and brake calipers. While the new estate is larger all round, it’s also lighter by up to 50kg, depending on model, than its predecessor.

Stability, traction and cornering brake control are all standard, and the new Touring will also be fitted with BMW’s latest Brake Force Display. Having gone through all the approval processes, this rear light system which shows additional red LEDs when the driver brakes really hard, or the ABS cuts in, is now legal throughout the EU.

The options list also includes adaptive headlamps and a two-panel Panorama sunroof. Like other cars in the BMW range, the Touring will be available with a head-up windscreen display, from some time in the autumn.

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