THE BMW 530e sits at the very top of the premium hybrid car market and it is an exceptional all-rounder.

It is stylish, practical, superbly built and good to drive, while the plug-in powertrain is the most impressive of its type.

As an added bonus it has the ability to reduce your running costs as a private buyer or company-car driver because of the tax benefits.Its big 19.4kWh battery means it has a zero-emissions range of up to 64 miles, and when the battery runs dry, the superb 2.0-litre petrol engine takes over and gives the big saloon a range of up to 600 miles.

For a big car it is sharp and great to drive and its advanced suspension system means that it is a great motorwaycruiser, munching the miles without any fuss.

It is very refined and is enjoyed by the driver and passengers alike.

The two power sources blend perfectly and you don't feel much of a difference moving from one to the other.

The petrol engine kicks in seamlessly when required at a punch of the throttle or when the battery is low.

The sprint to 62mph takes 6.3 seconds and the top speed is 143mph. The power is delivered smoothly without fuss and there are a number of driving modes with Efficient and Sport being the ones you would be most likely to use.

As you would expect the interior is a very nice place to be and there is full online sat-nav, a Harman Kardon stereo, heated seats and adaptive LED lights and every creature comfort you could want.

All the materials are first class and the controls are easy to use and well placed. The traditional thick BMW steering wheel feels great and adds to the quality feel of the spacious cabin which has enough room for five adults.

The 530e is crammed with lots of standard equipment as well as all the latest driver and safety aids and the large 520 litre boot means that it is also practical.

The car was the 530e M Sport Pro version costing £61,550 but it came with lots of optional equipment taking the final total to £69,278.