Following an earlier image leak, BMW has officially taken the wraps off the all-new 5-Series Sedan. The latest model marks the sixth-generation of the venerable sports sedan. The new BMW 5-Series Sedan will make its public debut at next month’s LA Show.
Developed under the codename ‘F10′, the BMW 5-Series softens the harder lines of the current E60 with more conventional-looking headlights and a cleaner front-end design. New European pedestrian safety standards threaten to drastically alter the design of many European cars for the worse, but BMW has managed to maintain its classic twin-kidney grille design with the new 5-Series while simultaneously reducing the length of the front overhang.
As is typical of most recent BMW redesigns, this 5-Series adds some space between the wheels by extending the wheelbase nearly 100 mm and widening the track. The car’s overall length has grown by less than 20 mm, while its height is slightly reduced and its width increased by a fraction. A set of 17-inch wheels are the smallest available with 18- and 19-inch wheels optional.
From launch the 5-Series will offer one 8-cylinder and three 6-cylinder petrol engine options. Two diesel 6-cylinder models will also be available.
The range-topping 550i model comes packing a 300 kW version of BMW’s turbocharged V8. As expected, BMW’s 225 kW turbocharged inline-6 will be available in the 535i model. A 530d model will also be available, featuring a 180 kW diesel engine, as well as an entry level 4-cylinder 520d with a 135 kW diesel engine and economy of 5.0 L/100km.
The next-generation 5-Series features an eight-speed automatic transmission with optional all-wheel drive.
The new 5 also offers a multitude of gadgets to keep occupants entertained, comfortable and safe, which includes a Parking Assistant, a collision warning and brake initiation function in conjunction with Active Cruise Control and Stop & Go, Surround View and Speed Limit Device. Further options are Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Warning, a High-Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision able to detect even individual persons, Park Distance Control and a reverse-view camera.
The new BMW 5-Series will arrive in South Africa in May 2010.
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