Luxury and gadgetry make for a compelling proposition
NEW MODELS
BMW launched what it is calling its “business athlete” this week. The 5 Series is the model that really put BMW on the map back in 1972 and today it arrives as what could be regarded as a slightly smaller 7 Series.
The new generation has lost 100kg and gained a load of new technology, much of which has filtered down from its 7 Series brethren. This includes the larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen with its enhanced levels of connectivity and gesture control. The overall interior ambience is also similar to the seven, with plenty of luxury combined with a feeling that you are in control of something that is both comfortable and dynamic.
DRIVING PLEASURE
New levels of BMW’s hallmark driving pleasure come about through such options as Active Steering (rear wheel steering to the rest of us) and new chassis with a lower centre of gravity.
Initial engine options include two petrol models in the form of the 530i (185kW and 350Nm) and the superb 540i (250kW and 450Nm), while diesel powerplants include a 520d (140kW and 400Nm) and the 530d (195kW and 620Nm). Environmental fans will be pleased to know there will also be a 530e plug-in hybrid further down the line, but performance fans will be disappointed that the allwheel drive M550i is not currently planned for the South African market. They will have to wait for the M5 to come along, probably early in 2018.
Other technology highlights include elements for automated driving, although many are on the typically extensive options list. These include radar and ultrasound sensors, cross traffic warning, lane keeping assistance and Active Cruise Control. There is also a new head-up display system which is probably the best in the business.
Like the seven, the new 5 Series also comes with a smart key which can include the remote parking feature — which, as we reported in our 740e test last week, is something of a gimmick but is still rather cool.
After driving the latest generation last year in Portugal, we think BMW has come up with a package that is undeniably the new benchmark in the segment. Mercedes pushed the envelope last year with its new E-Class, so now it is up to Audi to see if it can trump its two rivals when it launches the new A6 in 2018.
Pricing for the new 5 Series starts at R770,956 for the 520d, but with most of the goodies on the options list, expect to pay considerably more.