The new arrival has a V10 570 bhp engine that gives it spectacular performance. The 0-100km sprint takes less than five seconds and the top speed is limited to 258kmph.

There is a seven-speed semi-automatic transmission.

The Touring comes with self-levelling air suspension which helps make light work of big loads. The boot can hold 500 litres of cargo, but 1650 litres with the rear seats down.

The M5 Touring rides on 19" alloy wheels. Inside there is a new console giving easy access to controls.

Its arrival will coincide with a minor facelift for the 5 Series which gets styling changes inside and out.

And most important, BMW has been working hard to improve economy so expect to hear the fuel injection and electronic computer systems have been tweaked.

Another big hitter, the Toyota Land Cruiser is getting cleaner engines without loss of performance. In fact the diesel gets an increase of 7 bhp.