The new BMW 5 Series - more accomplished than ever before...
BMW has released pics and details of its sixth-generation 5 Series sedan, which now comes with a host of new technologies, new engines and an optional 8-speed automatic transmission. With the first generation 5 Series having been launched in 1972, each successive generation of the car has upped the ante in terms of sheer technology as well as the driving experience, and the latest car pushes the envelope even further.
The new BMW 5 Series saloon now has the longest wheelbase in its class (2,968mm) which creates more room for its passengers. Also, with its (optional) 40:20:40 split folding rear seats, the car has 520 litres of boot space, which a lot of people will definitely find very useful.
The asymmetrically designed centre console is slightly inclined (by seven degrees) towards the driver, which ensures that all controls are comfortably within the reach. The multifunctional steering wheel has been simplified, putting all of the function keys in one hand and infotainment in the other.
The use of BMW’s ‘Black Panel’ technology on the instrument panel and centre console, as seen in the BMW 7 Series and the 5 Series Gran Turismo, adds a touch of luxury to the cabin. Black Panel technology integrates the centre console into the trim of the car. High-resolution electronic displays are visible when needed, but when not in use, they discreetly blend in to form an elegant black band across the interior.
The new BMW 5 Series saloon is being offered with three diesel and four petrol engines. The diesel models include the 520d, fitted with a four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine, and the 525d and 530d, both of which get a turbocharged straight-six 3.0-litre engine. Petrol variants include the 523i, 528i and 535i, all of which get six-cylinder engines, while the range-topping 550i gets a 4.4-litre, 407-horsepower V8.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the new 5 Series, while an 8-speed automatic is standard on the 550i. Also, for those 5 Series saloons specified with Variable Damper Control or Adaptive Drive packages, BMW's Drive Dynamic Control (DDC) chassis configurator is fitted to enhance ride and handling still further. DDC allows for fine tuning of the chassis with the choice of normal, comfort, sport and sport+, with each mode changing the level of steering assistance, throttle response, gear change characteristics, degree of Dynamic Stability Control interaction and, courtesy of adjustable dampers, the ride and handling characteristics.
We expect BMW to launch the new 5 Series in India early next year, with prices starting at Rs 45 lakh and above.
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