The BMW 5 Series sedan will officially launch in early 2010, with the first cars expected to reach New Zealand by the middle of the year.
The new 5 Series features the longest wheelbase in its segment, short overhangs and a coupe-like roofline.
The new model will be launched with petrol and diesel engines. The top model is the BMW 550i powered by a V8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo featuring High Precision Injection (300kW/407hp). At the other end of the spectrum, the new BMW 520d comes with an upgraded 135kW/184hp four-cylinder diesel and features Auto Start Stop as standard. BMW reports an average fuel consumption of 5.0 litres/100km in the EU test cycle and a CO² emission rating of 132 g/km.
An eight-speed automatic transmission comes as an option with all engine variants of the BMW 5 Series and is standard on the BMW 550i. Sports Automatic with shift paddles on the steering wheel is also available as an option.
The suspension technology combines a double track arm front axle and the Integral-V rear axle. At the same time optional Dynamic Driving Control enables the driver to set the suspension they choose. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan is available with Adaptive Drive encompassing Dynamic Damper Control and Dynamic Drive stability control, as well as BMW’s Integral Active Steering which adds a controlled rear axle steering function.
BMW EfficientDynamics technologies are standard in combinations on each model, with features such as Brake Energy Regeneration, a gearshift point indicator, and active air flap control. The 5 Series has lighweight features such as the doors, engine compartment lid, front side panels and suspension components made of aluminium.
The driver assistance systems include all the bells and whistles, such as a Parking Assistant, Surround View, collision warning with application of the brakes in conjunction with Active Cruise Control plus Stop & Go, and a new Speed Limit Device. Further features also available are Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, a Head-Up Display, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, and a back-up camera.