New BMW 5 Series: evolution ahead of revolution

THE new BMW 5 Series is really a facelifted version of the 7 th generation 5 Series (G30).

In terms of visuals it’s certainly evolution rather than revoultion and you will need to be a bit of a BMW afficionado to quickly spot the changes. The trademark BMW kidney grill has grown in width and height, you get some slimmer headlights and the LED taillights are now presented with an additional top overhang that transforms the L-motif into a C-shape. All very good and it’s still a very handsome and premium looking package. The facelift has certainly followed the design language of the most recent 3 Series.

The new BMW 5 Series comes in a choice of three trim levels: SE, M Sport and M Sport Edition. For the very first time in Ireland, BMW will also be introducing a range-topping M Performance M550i xDrive on Saloon models.

Alongside the 530hp V8 found in the range-topping BMW M550i xDrive Saloon, the new BMW 5 Series comes with a choice of three additional petrol and three diesel engines producing between 184hp and 340hp. The direct injection system in the petrol units operates at increased pressure, meaning greater efficiency, while the twostage turbocharging technology now fitted in all diesel variants makes for even sharper power delivery.

All the engines are complemented with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard. BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is also offered on select variants including the 520d, 530d, 530e, 540i, 545e and M550i models.

Mild-hybrid technology, first introduced in the BMW 520d and BMW 520d xDrive models in autumn 2019, will now offer enhanced performance combined with lower fuel consumption and improved driving comfort in all four- and six-cylinder variants of the new BMW 5 Series.

Fitting a powerful 48V starter-generator and a second battery enables a significant increase in the amount of brake energy that can be regenerated and stored.

The starter-generator produces an electric boost that instantly makes an additional 8 kW/11 hp available, enhancing overtaking and off-the-line acceleration.

From November 2020, there will be a choice of plug-in hybrid models with the latest fourth-generation battery technology.

The new 5 Series includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with the latest extended functionality. This technology learns routines, habits and preferences to help the driver get the best out of the in-car functionality.

The range kicks off with the 520i saloon starting at €51,850 while the Touring begins at €55,570. The big seller here in Ireland will probably still be the diesel saloon. The 520d SE will cost €52,100 and if you feel like upgrading to the M Sport that will set you back €56,830.

Prices for the plug-in hybrid start at just over €62,000 and the mighty M550i xDrive saloon will cost €103,660.