This week was the world debut of the new BMW 5-Series. Now in its sixth generation, the new sedan features a longer wheelbase, longer hood, short overhangs and a coupe-like roofline. Of course the car still looks true to BMW’s roots with its front kidney grille and muscular rear end.
As for as the technical bits are concerned, the drivetrain and suspension technologies have been updated to perform more agile and comfortable than before. When equipped with the Sport Package, the new 5-Series includes Adaptive Drive, which includes Driving Dynamics Control, Electronic Damper Control, and Active Roll Stabilization. Optional Integral Active Steering will extend or shorten the vehicle’s wheelbase for improved stability at high speeds and enhanced agility at lower speeds.
The new 5-Series will be available with a V8 and inline-6 engines. The top-of-the-line 550i arrives with twin-turbo V8 with High Precision direct injection for an output of 400hp. The inline-6 of the 535i features a single twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection, and VALVETRONIC throttle-less intake technology. It delivers 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. The 535i and 550i will be available with a choice of six-speed manual transmission, the new eight-speed automatic transmission or new Sport Automatic eight-speed. Later, the 528i will debut with a 240hp inline-6.
BMW EfficientDynamics technologies are featured in certain models including Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering, a gearshift point indicator and active cooling air flaps. Lightweight materials are used intelligently to balance the vehicle and lower its overall weight. For example, components such as doors, hood, front fenders, and suspension assemblies are made of aluminum.
In the course of five model generations, overall sales of the BMW 5-Series amount to more than 5.5 million units. Now the new model is based on a newly developed architecture also featured in the 7-Series.