As one of the most successful cars in history with nearly 5 million models sold during a near 40-year lifetime, the BMW 5 Series Saloon has defined the executive saloon sector, offering handling and performance combined with elegance and luxury.
Now in its sixth iteration, the elements that make up those benchmark standards have been enhanced. The near perfect 50:50 weight distribution inherent in all BMWs is still to the fore, while an advanced rear-wheel-drive chassis and developments of class-leading and award-winning engines, now offer higher power and increased efficiency. The latest in innovative driver assistance and safety technology completes the package.
Setting new standards in the sector, the new BMW 5 Series is the first to feature Auto Start-Stop, another step in BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics programme, an eight-speed automatic transmission and a double-wishbone front suspension.
With its long wheelbase and short overhangs, long bonnet, dynamic lines, athletic body and the coupé-like, sleek roofline, the new model is distinctively a BMW 5 Series – designed and built to ensure the sixth generation retains the legacy created by the first five.
Drivetrain Customers will be able to choose from four diesel powerplants and four petrol engines, which utilise a range of innovative technologies including single and dual turbocharging and High Precision Direct Injection, as well as award-winning EfficientDynamics technologies.
For drivers looking for unparalleled economy the new 184hp BMW 520d delivers class-leading emission levels of 129g/km of CO2 as well as a combined fuel consumption of 57.6mpg. It achieves this through a combination of lightweight engineering (aluminium crankcase), the latest generation of common-rail direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, mated to its four-cylinder engine.
Other engines available in the 5 Series range include the new BMW 525d which offers an equally impressive combination of performance and parsimony. Powered by a 3.0-litre all-aluminium engine, it develops maximum output of 204hp yet still records a combined 45.6mpg and 162g/km CO2 emissions to set a new benchmark as the most efficient six-cylinder diesel model on the market. The new BMW 530d shares the same engine with an output of 245hp but returns an impressive 44.8mpg on the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of only 166g/km.
Both the BMW 525d Saloon and the 530d Saloon equipped with an automatic transmission achieve the crucial 160g/km CO2 emissions target to benefit from taxation incentives. The flagship of the diesel 5 Series line-up is the BMW 535d. This 299hp powered car features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre engine that is capable of an electronically-limited 155mph top speed and a zero to 62mph time of 5.7 seconds, yet still manages 46.3mpg and emissions of only 162g/km.
Other highlights of the engine range include the new BMW 550i, which features BMW’s award-winning twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 delivering 407hp. The 3.0-litre engine in the BMW 535i is the first to combine single turbocharger technology, High Precision Direct Injection and variable VALVETRONIC valve management.
The naturally aspirated six-cylinder engined BMW 528i and 523i, have a version of High Precision Direct Injection with a greater focus on efficiency. In the new 258hp BMW 528i this unit records a combined 36.2mpg and CO2 emissions of 182g/km. Using the same technology the 523i achieves 37.2mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 177g/km.
All models except the 550i come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard but all can be specified with the new eight-speed automatic gearbox, including the 520d, making that model the first four-cylinder car in the world available with an eight-speed transmission.
Enhanced standard and optional equipment
The new BMW 5 Series Saloon not only offers the driver more value, but improves on its previous incarnation’s residual values proposition too. Standard specification now includes Dakota leather upholstery, Bluetooth telephone preparation, automatic air conditioning with two-zone control, front and rear Park Distance Control and 7-inch control display and iDrive.
A raft of intelligent new technology, including Park Assist automatic parking, Integral Active Steering, Head-up Display and Night Vision with pedestrian recognition can also be specified.
Key facts
- Choice of four petrol engines and four diesel engines.
- BMW 520d Saloon now records a sub 130g/km CO2 emissions figure.
- Eight-speed automatic gearbox available on all models including 520d – the first time a four-cylinder powered vehicle has featured such an advanced transmission.
- Auto Start-Stop technology debuts on biggest selling BMW 520d Saloon.
- Highest ever level of standard specification including Dakota leather upholstery on all models.
- New BMW 535d derivative joins the fold as M Sport specification goes on sale.
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