Less than three short months after BMW unveiled the Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo at the Geneva auto show in March, the company has announced the production version. It will retain the 5 Series Gran Turismo name and is said to combine a coup-like silhouette with the luxurious interior of a BMW 7 Series, while at the same time giving the functionality of a BMW 5 Series Touring or X5.
The 19th distinct model shape to be offered in the BMW portfolio has a vehicle length nearly on par with a 7 Series to create a greater feeling of space for those inside. This translates into the second greatest amount of legroom offered by any BMW, while headroom is equivalent to that of an X5. Meanwhile, trunk space is the second largest space of all current BMWs behind the capacity of the BMW X5.
The Gran Turismo is available as either a four-seat specification car for a luxurious, spacious feel or in a five-seat configuration for a blend of sophistication and practicality. But its truly innovative feature is a two-piece tailgate, which is a first in the premium segment. Now an owner has the option to choose between two ways of opening the rear of the vehicle - a more conventional sedan-style trunk opening provides access for smaller objects. This allows the cabin area to remain warm and without noise intrusion. The hatch-style opening combined with a flexible partition comes into play should the Gran Turismo owner wish to make full use of its load-lugging capacity. The rear seats can be moved 4" fore or aft to either increase trunk space or provide greater legroom for rear seat passengers.
With the rear seats moved forwards, the seat backs folded virtually flat and the parcel shelf removed and stowed beneath the luggage compartment floor, much bulkier items can then be transported.
The Gran Turismo has been styled to represent its unique position in the market. The familiar BMW kidney grilles and large air intakes hint at the car's performance potential, while a coup feel is bestowd by the roof line that curves downwards towards the rear and the frameless doors.Inside, the seats are all set in a semi-command driving position for the best mix of forward vision yet comfortable access. One of the key features of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is the height of the seats. Potential customers have expressed a desire for the luxury of a 7 Series but also the feeling of security and all round visibility a car with a command driving position such as the X5 offers.Black Panel technology first shown on the BMW 7 Series is a signature piece of design that allows the displays in the centre console to double as stylish trim. The electronic displays are visible through the Black Panel when needed, but are discreet enough to form a stylish black band across the interior when not in use. Control switches in galvanized metal are set into the centre console by way of contrast.
Class-leading drivetrains
Three class-leading engines power the three models available at launch. The new Gran Turismo will initially be offered in Europe as a 530d, 535i and 550i.The biggest seller is predicted to be the BMW 530d GT. This 2993cc six-cylinder car features third-generation common-rail direct injection with piezo injectors for the best in diesel refinement and efficiency. Producing 245hp at 4000rpm, the 530d accelerates from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds before going on to a top speed of 149mph. Fuel economy is exceptional with a combined consumption figure of 43.5mpg.