a smooth, sophisticated plug-in hybrid spoiled only by electronic gimmicks

And that four-wheel steering system makes it feel so small and confidence-inspiring on a tight country road and stable and deliberate when turning into a fast corner. The brakes feel equally progressive and powerful.

Of course, the power is considerable, but it never overwhelms and the progression of the throttle means it’s as easy to tickle the throttle as it is to jam it to the firewall. Notwithstanding a little local difficulty with some of our police forces, BMW’s turbo six is one of the finest engines in production and it sounds creamily smooth. The electric motor never feels intrusive, it just fills whatever torque gaps there are, and gives a natural feeling and seamless power delivery.  

The Telegraph verdict

Big and expensive, this eighth-generation 5-series is being sold as much on its software and gadgets as it is on dynamics and power units. Did it need to break the five-metre-long barrier, did it need quite so many software gimmicks, is piano black a fit-and-proper cabin material for an £80-grand car? Discuss. But while you are doing so, remember that when it comes to joining up villages, towns and cities, in all weathers, in sybaritic comfort and with astonishing body control and driver appeal, this plug-in BMW has few if any peers. Although I must admit that Herbie my Labrador would prefer the estate version, if that’s OK with you.

The facts

On test: BMW 550e PHEV saloon

Body style: Four-door saloon

On sale: Now

How much? From £76,605

How fast? 155mph, 0-62mph in 4.3sec

How economical? 282-353mpg (WLTP Combined)

Engine & gearbox: 3.0-litre biturbo six-cylinder petrol, eight-speed automatic gearbox, four-wheel drive 

Electric powertrain: AC permanent magnet synchronous motor delivering 194bhp/207lb ft, with 18.7kWh (usable) lithium ion NMC battery, 7.4kW on-board charger

Electric range: 52-56 miles

Maximum power/torque: 483bhp/516lb ft

CO2 emissions: 23-19g/km (WLTP Combined)

VED: £0 first year, £560 next five years, then £180

Warranty: 3 years/unlimited mileage

The rivals

Audi A6 Black Edition 50 E TFSI Quattro 299PS, from £63,050