2017 BMW 5 Series unveiled

BMW has unveiled the all-new 5 Series, which is expected to be launched globally in February 2017. The seventh generation 5 Series has received several cosmetic as well as mechanical changes, a la the 7 Series.

Starting with the design, the redesigned bumper gets larger air dams and a vertical LED strip instead of the angular layout on the earlier car. The kidney grille is now even more prominent and the budge on the bonnet is wider. Moving to the side, a larger vent has been added, which looks taken straight from the 7 Series’ design book. The front overhang seems to be longer as well. Obviously, this has added more room on the inside. BMW even claims that the new 5-Series has the lowest drag coefficient ratio in its class at 0.22. Viewed from the rear, the tail lights reminisce of the current 3 Series, making it look sportier.

The story continues on the inside as the 5 Series comes with the latest iDrive system derived from the 7 Series. The 10.25-inch infotainment system displays data such as the multimedia functions, vehicle functions, navigation and telephone features. Apple CarPlay has been incorporated in the system as well. Along with the new dashboard, which is extremely skewed towards the driver, the HUD is now 70 per cent larger and displays information such as the track listing, navigation data etc.

When it comes to the engines, the 5 Series will be lead by the M550i xDrive. The V8 engine develops 456bhp and 650Nm of torque and can hit 100kmph in just 4 seconds. Also on offer are new petrol engines in the 530i and 540i, with a displacement of 2-litre and 3-litre, respectively. The engine to look at forward to for the Indian car will be the 2-litre diesel. The specifications remain the same, but the car has lost over 100kg of weight so expect better efficiency and faster acceleration. BMW’s AWD system, xDrive will be offered as an option too.

The major changes in the 5 Series include a stereo camera that comes with an optional radar and ultrasound sensors to monitor the area around the car. Also new is the Lane Keeping Assistant that offers feedback to the steering, maintaining the correct lane. Active cruise control will be offered as an option too. Another new highlight is the Special Synergy Thermoacoustic Capsule (SYNTAK) technology, for improved NVH levels. ParkAssist and Micosoft Exchange will be added into the infotainment system as well for better integration. There is also inductive charging and Wi-Fi hotspot portal, to connect up to 10 devices.

The 5 Series will be launched in India in February itself and with the abundance of new features, we expect it to be a solid package from BMW to compete against the likes of Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.