Currently reading: BMW 5-series GT v rivals - pics

Autocar pits BMW v Merc v Audi v Land Rover v Lexus

Autocar has pitted the BMW 530d Gran Turismo against its rivals - and these are some of the best pictures from the five-car test.

The rivals are the Mercedes E350 CDI Avantegarde, Land Rover Discovery 3.0 TDV6 HSE, BMW 530D SE Gran Turismo, Audi A6 Allroad 3.0 TDI and Lexus RX450H SE-L.

See the BMW 5-series GT v rivals pictures

However, it should be noted that - due to photographic deadlines - the car you see in these pictures is the Mercedes E200 CDI. However, it was the E350 CDI tested.

The conclusions? The BMW has its strengths - particularly the most spacious and best-finished interior. However, it fails to match its own claims to having grand touring ability, comfort and versatility.

The best all-rounder in the test is deemed the Audi, but it only finishes fourth overall - ahead, only, of the Lexus - as it doesn't excel in any area.

Instead, it's the Mercedes and Land Rover that do that. If you want an SUV with huge versatility then the Discovery is the car for you, but overall we have placed the Mercedes first; it doesn't sit you up high, but as a method of transporting you and your family it is unmatched.

The full test story is in this week's Autocar magazine, on sale now.

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