News: BMW introduces the new 5-Series

The minimalist design language defines the appearance of the new BMW 5 Series. Compared to the previous model, the new generation has been 97 mm longer, with a total length of 5,060 mm. Width increased by 32 mm to 1,900 mm and length by 36 mm to 1,515 mm. The wheelbase has increased by 20 mm and is now 2,995 mm.

The front of the new 5 Series features a modern interpretation of the twin headlights and BMW kidney grille. LED elements arranged almost vertically serve as direction indicators and daytime running lights. The kidney grille provides a wider view and optionally can also be fitted with ‘Iconic Glow’ kidney lighting.

The side view is defined by a high shoulder line, strong faces and two character lines correctly placed. The black side sill extensions, the rear-mounted door handles and the number 5 stamped under the C-pillar are real eye-catchers. A chrome strip separates the horizontal taillights, which stand out in a new, expressive interpretation of the L-shaped signature. To enhance the character, there is an optional M Sport package and M Sport Pro package. The color palette at launch is already available with three exterior colors.

Ergonomics

The number of buttons in the cockpit has been significantly reduced from the outgoing model. This is due to more digitalization of work. The Curved Display is a new interpretation of the classic BMW trend of turning the cockpit towards the driver. The full digital display consists of a 12.3-inch Information Display and a 14.9-inch Touch Control Display.

The newly designed steering wheel has a tapered bottom and provides haptic feedback to the controls. In addition, the transmission lever has also been completely redesigned. BMW’s Interactive Bar – standard on electric variants of the new 5 Series – is another hallmark. This is lit from within and has a crystal-like surface texture. The Interactive Bar extends across the dashboard and into the doors and features touch-sensitive control panels.

vegan interior

Newly designed sports seats are standard equipment. The optional comfort seats offer a wide selection of electrically adjustable adjustment options. The new 5-Series is also the first BMW model with a completely vegan interior as standard. In addition to the seats, dashboard and door panels being covered in sustainable ‘Veganza’ material, the steering wheel is also wrapped in this material for the first time. The ‘Veganza’ fabric with leather-like properties is optionally available in several colors and with decorative stitching. Also available as an option is Merino leather upholstery in a variety of two-tones.

BMW i5 M60 xDrive fully electric

The all-electric i5 features the most advanced fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology and is available in two versions. The i5 M60 xDrive combines a powerful 442 kW (601 hp) drive with typical M performance and specific design features. Two integrated drive units at the front and rear axle provide fully electric four-wheel drive. System torque is up to 820 Nm with the M Sport Boost or M Launch Control function activated. This accelerates the i5 M60 from 0 to 100 km / h in 3.8 seconds. The maximum speed is electronically limited to 230 km / h.

In another variant, the i5 eDrive40, the electric motor drives the rear wheels and offers a maximum power of 250 kW (340 hp) and a maximum torque of 430 Nm with the function of Sport Boost or Launch Control. The BMW i5 eDrive40 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 193 km/h.

The high-voltage battery is located on the i5’s bottom plate and has a usable net capacity of 81.2 kWh. The i5 M60 xDrive has a WLTP range of 455-516 km and the i5 eDrive40 a WLTP range of 477-582 km. With the new MAX RANGE function, the range can be increased up to 25 percent by reducing power and top speed and turning off the comfort functions.

Charging BMW

The BMW i5 eDrive40’s Integrated Charging Unit (CCU) enables AC charging up to 11 kW, with 22 kW as an option (standard on the i5 M60 xDrive). The high-voltage battery can be charged with a DC charger up to 205 kW. This means that the i5 battery, for example, can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes.

The i5 models are also the brand’s first models that are suitable for Plug & Charge functionality. This allows BMW to register independently at suitable public charging stations, without using an app or a charging card. Unique is the Multi-Contract Option, which makes it possible to digitally store up to five different Plug & Charge contracts from different service providers in the car.

New petrol and diesel engines with 48 volt hybrid technology

In addition to the i5 full electric and plug-in hybrid models, gasoline and diesel engines from the new modular generation of BMW Group Efficient Dynamics engines will also be available. All of these feature 48-volt Mild Hybrid technology and come standard with the new 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission.

The Dutch range consists of the four-cylinder 520i Sedan with 158 kW (208 hp), Sedan 520d and 520d xDrive Sedan, each with 145 kW (197 hp). Later this year, the range will be expanded with two latest generation plug-in hybrid models. A new inline-six diesel engine will also be available in 2024, as will a third version of the all-electric i5 with four-wheel drive.

Undercarriage

Chassis technology is a special model adapted to various vehicle technologies. Automatic traction control, integrated braking system and adaptive Sport Steering are standard equipment. Optionally available are M Sport suspension, M Sport braking system and Adaptive Suspension Professional (standard on i5 M60 xDrive) with electronically controlled shock absorbers, Integral Active Steering and new dynamics control. The optional Adaptive Suspension Expert M also includes Active Roll Stabilization and Active Roll Comfort. Alloy wheels in 18-inch or 19-inch (depending on the engine) are standard. Optionally available, this can be extended to 21-inch alloy wheels.

BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and Operating System 8.5

The improved BMW iDrive system and ‘QuickSelect’ contribute to a unique driving and transport experience in the new 5 Series. The system is based on the BMW OS 8.5 and features a new ‘home’ screen with function buttons positioned vertically on the driver’s side. ‘QuickSelect’ allows you to work quickly, without having to switch to sub-menus.

The new iDrive works together with the Curved Display and the Intelligent Personal Assistant. The system is designed to improve touch control and natural speech. In addition, the new 5 Series features a precision iDrive controller on the center console. Optional Cockpit Live Expert includes a Head-Up Display with Enhanced Visibility and a display on the Control Display or instrument panel. Optional is Native Interaction to control functions through gestures.

BMW OS 8.5 also offers more digital content for information or entertainment, faster feature updates, better charging station information for electrified models and better access to many online services. Video streaming is possible through the Control Display, as well as some form of in-car games. This is possible for the first time in the new 5 Series through the AirConsole platform. Therefore, the driver and passengers can play games or stream videos while the car is stationary, for example while waiting for a charging session.

5G antennas

Another innovation is Intimate Events, with light shows and private receptions. Optionally, this also includes a powerful Light Carpet. Digital Key Plus is now available for smartphones with iOS or Android operating systems and for Apple Watch. With standard 5G antennas, the new business sedan offers better connectivity and mobile connectivity. Personal ESIM ensures that the car can be fully integrated into the driver’s digital world. In selected markets, including the Netherlands, it is also possible to pay for parking directly from BMW.