NEW 5-SERIES COMING SOON
Executive saloon aims to reassert its credentials as a dynamic, efficient, high-tech car
The new, sixth-generation BMW 5-series will be unveiled in October, ahead of the start of righthand-drive sales early next year. The new model, codenamed G30, is set to continue the lineage of today’s F10 model, but with tauter surfacing and more finely honed crease lines.
Behind the familiar styling, though, are new underpinnings to provide the G30 with a moderate increase in dimensions, giving it a slightly longer wheelbase and wider tracks than today’s model.
The so-called CLAR (Cluster Architecture) uses a higher percentage of aluminium than the 35up platform it replaces to reduce weight by up to 100kg in base 520i guise.
The engine line-up for the G30 will largely mirror that of the outgoing model. A successor to the ActiveHybrid 5 is also planned with plug-in capability and a 50km electric range. To be badged 540e, BMW’s new hybrid uses the same powertrain as the X5 xDrive40e, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-turbo engine and an electric motor delivering a combined 313hp. At the top of the range will be a new M5 with a lightly revised version of the outgoing model’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine. It will develop the same 600hp as the recently announced M5 Competition Edition model.
The G30 is set to receive an updated version of the existing eight-speed ZF automatic, with the M5 exclusively using a dual-clutch automatic. For the first time, the G30 will also offer air springs at both the front and rear on higher-end models.
New interior features include a head-up display unit and the latest iDrive system with an optional 12.3-inch touchscreen, as well as gesture control features that allow the driver to perform commands with a simple swipe of the hand. Further options will include wireless smartphone charging, LTE internet connectivity and a smart key that will allow autonomous parking while the driver is outside the car.