BMW has entered new territory with its 420i Gran Coupe - basically a five-door hatch to take on the Audi A5 Sportback.

And like every other BMW, it drives like a dream in the X-Drive four-wheel-drive form I took for a  drive recently.

That is, perhaps, as it should be with any car from BMW. They have a reputation to uphold.

The new model will appeal to many company car user choosers, who often do not have any two-door coupes on their list.

The 187bhp turbo 2.0-litre engine is smooth and quiet and delivers excellent performance from almost any speed.

Unlike the 4-Series coupe the ride is very comfortable while not affecting the excellence of  the handling and road-holding.

There are astonishing levels of grip with the four wheel drive system and, while there is a small penalty to pay in economy and emissions, it helps make a very stable and surefooted sporting family hatch.

All models have an electric tailgate, leather upholstery with heated seats, DAB stereo and much more.

Interior space is excellent with good rear legroom and a good size boot, but it is designed to be a four, not a five, seater.