BMW 5 SERIES

Munich’s lighter, sleeker tech-leader to get punchy

BMW’S seventh-gen 5 Series has been revealed, and hints at a new high-power M5 for Australia.

Set to leapfrog the 7 Series as BMW’S tech leader, the new 5 Series, codenamed G30, will showcase a 340kw/650nm 550i that smashes the current M5 thanks to a twin-turbo V8 hooked up to the company’s xdrive all-wheel-drive system, a combination designed to get to 100km/h in 4.0sec.

While we understand it has not been engineered for right-hand drive, it gives a tantalising taste of the next M5, which will break cover in late 2017 sporting a 450kw-plus turbocharged V8 and – for the first time – all-wheel drive, which should reduce the 0-100km/h sprint to 3.5sec.

The new 5 Series is claimed to be 100kg lighter than the model it replaces, with class-leading aero aimed at cementing the crucial new model as the pinnacle of large luxury driving dynamics.

Regular 5 Series models sold in Australia are unlikely to get the xdrive drivetrain, instead making do with BMW’S proven and popular rear-drive layout.

Initial engine options in the allturbo line-up are likely to include a 140kw/400nm 2.0-litre diesel (520d), 185kw/350nm 2.0-litre petrol (530i) and 195kw/620nm 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel (530d).

A 530e plug-in hybrid model will combine the 530i’s four-pot with an electric motor.

It’s the tech beneath the skin that should boost the 5’s presence against the hard-charging Mercedes-benz E-class, Audi A6, Jaguar XF and Lexus GS.

An armoury of connectivity includes the first wireless application of Apple Carplay as well as BMW’S most advanced semi-autonomous technology as part of Driving Assist Plus, which will include self-steering with Lane Change Assistant.

Expect the new 5 Series here in March 2017 priced from $85,000.