BMW has released preliminary details on the all-new 5-Series sedan lineup ahead of its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show next March and Australian sales from the middle of 2010.
As expected, it's an engineering masterpiece bristling with new technologies for performance, enhanced fuel economy and reduced emissions. For example, every model has the option of BMW's new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The fifth generation 5-Series is powered by a range of four petrol engines (one eight cylinder and three six cylinders), two six cylinder diesels and a four cylinder turbo-diesel. Maximum economy is achieved by the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel with Auto Start Stop - it has 135kW of power and returns fuel economy as low as 5.0l/100kms with CO2 emissions measured at 132 g/km.
Top-of-the-range BMW 550i is powered by a twin-turbo eight cylinder petrol engine that BMW says is good for 300kW. The 535i has 225kW, the 528i provides 190kW while the 523i delivers 150kW.
Of the six-cylinder diesels, the 530d offers 180kW and the 525d has 150kW on tap. BMW says all comply with the stringent Euro5 emissions standard while the 530d already meets the upcoming Euro6 requirements.
Exterior styling is evolutionary but certainly contemporary. The new 5-Series is bigger than its predecessor and BMW says its wheelbase is now the longest in class.
BMW's customary long bonnet is maintained as is the kidney grille (but in a new aerodynamic format like the new 7-Series). The front treatment is much sleeker while the rear is also sharper and more muscular than the current model.
Nicely proportioned pillars give the new 5-Series an almost coupe-like side view.
Inside is the usual BMW luxury.
Driver technology abounds with features such as BMW Night Vision (detects pedestrians), Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning, Parking Assistant, Surround View and Active Cruise Control.
The 5-Series shares its chassis architecture with the new 7-Series models and both will be manufactured at the BMW plant in Dingolfing.
Already one of the most eagerly awaited new models of 2010, BMW will announce Australian specifications and pricing for the 5-Series closer to local launch around the middle of the year.
