Latest BMW 5 Series unveiled

BMW Group Australia confirmed on July 15 that a significant increase in standard specifications will be available on locally-delivered BMW 5 Series models from August. Reflecting the increased spec levels, prices are up across most of the 'entry-level' four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel models, starting at $79,900 for four-cylinder 520i sedan. However, the premium 550i sedan, at just under $160,000, shaves almost $20K off the model it replaces, while also offering a more powerful twin turbo V8.

Styling
The mid-life cycle update for the BMW 5 Series range brings with it refreshed exterior styling along with some interior refinements.

Externally, side indicators integrated into the exterior mirrors are now standard across all variants. Additional contour lines create a slightly sharper edge around the signature kidney grille, while a restructured lower air intake in the front bumper apron highlights new standard LED fog lights. Mildly redesigned rear lights and rear bumper have also been applied to the 5 Series Sedan and Touring models.

While the 5 Series Gran Turismo receives similar frontal styling updates, a new and extended tailgate has been incorporated, creating a longer silhouette. The GT also features revised two-section tail lights and updated styling cues around the license plate holder and rear bumper.

Interior updates include chrome trim on the control display, as well as increased capacity for storage compartments and cup holders in the centre console.

Updated 4.4 litre V8
The range-topping 550i sedan is now equipped with a new generation 4.4-litre V8 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and BMW's VALVETRONIC variable valve control system. This package boosts power output by 10 per cent to 330 kW from 5,500 rpm to 6,000 rpm, and increases torque to 650 Nm, now available between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. This translates to a 0-100 km/h time of just 4.6 seconds, nearly half a second faster than the outgoing engine.

Model range - 520i and 520d
Entry into the revised 5 Series range is through the 520i and 520d sedans, with pricing starting at $79,900. Both 520i and 520d feature the full suite of BMW safety features, including dynamic stability control system, active headrests and an active protection system, as well as six airbags. Cruise control with braking function, front and rear park distance control and reversing camera are also standard.

Inside, standard appointments include Dakota leather electric front seats, extended two-zone automatic climate control system, sports leather steering wheel with gear-shift paddles, and a 60:40 split and folding rear seat backrest.
Infotainment comprises a 12 speaker Hi-Fi audio system, convenience telephony, Bluetooth, USB audio interface, and Navigation System professional, now with the iDrive touch controller and internet functionality.
The 520d Touring adds automatic tailgate function, sunblinds for the rear side windows and BMW's park assist.

Model range - 528i
New features include Adaptive LED headlights; "hands free" boot-lid opening; and lane departure, forward collision and pedestrian warning driver assist features.
A multifunctional instrument cluster, Harman/Kardon surround sound system and DAB + digital radio, surround view and 19 inch alloy wheels are all standard on the 528i sedan.

Model range - 535i and 535d
Carrying most of the 528i sedan specs, the 535i and 535d sedans run more powerful engines and a more powerful braking system to handle them, as well as BMW's parking assistant feature as standard over the 528i.
The 535i Touring adds automatic tailgate function and sunblinds for the rear side windows as standard.

Model range - ActiveHybrid 5
Carrying most of the same standard features as the 535i, the ActiveHybrid 5 is distinguished by its powerful, but efficient full-hybrid drive train. The ActiveHybrid 5 also adds four-zone automatic climate control, extended instrument cluster and 18 inch alloys.

Model range - 550i
In addition to the previously-mentioned 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8, the premium $159,900 550i includes multifunctional instrument cluster; Harman/Kardon surround sound system and DAB + digital radio; adaptive LED headlights; and driving assistant (lane departure, forward collision, pedestrian warning with light city braking function).
A leather-trimmed BMW Individual instrument panel and surround-view parking assist are all standard.

Model range - Gran Turismo
The 520d Gran Turismo shares a similar spec level to the entry level sedan and touring models (ie. Bi-Xenon headlights, LED fog lights, electric seats, sat nav and rear view camera), but adds BMW's Driving Assistant; head-up display; multi-functional instruments; and 19 inch alloy wheels.

The 530d Gran Turismo adds 20 inch alloys, four-zone automatic climate control and Adaptive LED headlights including anti-glare high-beam assist.

The top-of-the-range 535i Gran Turismo adds surround view camera, interior and exterior mirrors with anti-dazzle function and comfort access system.

Luxury and Modern Packages
All BMW 5 Series models will now receive a 'Luxury line' or 'Modern line' trim packages.
The 'Modern line' adds B-pillar and mirror base trims in high-gloss black and matte chrome exhaust tips, rear bumper embellisher and front air inlet surrounds, as well as aluminium door sill trims illuminated with BMW designation and chrome grille trim. Window recess trims are satinated aluminium. There is also a range of options exclusive to 'Modern line' with interior trim and leather upholstery colour changes offered as a no cost option.

The 'Luxury line' uses different styling for the alloy wheels, along with chrome finishes to the exhaust, grille, window recess covers, bumper, tailgate and door handle trims. This package also includes specific design alloy wheels that, depending on the model, range in size from 18 up to 20 inches.
Interior and upholstery trim colours on offer for each 'line' package differ, further enhancing the opportunity to individualise each vehicle's character.

M Sports Package
Arguably the most desirable add-on for the new 5 Series sedan line-up is the M Sports Package. The package delivers sharper handling and a more performance-oriented ride through M Sport suspension settings (not available for ActiveHybrid 5); BMW sports seats (excluding 550i, which retains the comfort seats) and an M leather steering wheel.

The M aerodynamics package includes19 inch M double-spoke 351 alloy wheels or, for the Gran Turismo, 20 inch M Double spoke 303 alloys, as well as a range of exclusive trims such as anthracite roof lining and M designated door sill finishers.

All the updated BMW 5 Series offerings are currently available. See your local BMW dealer for further details.

BMW 5 Series Range Australian Pricing:
Australian MRLP*
BMW 520i Sedan $79,900
BMW 520d Sedan $82,400
BMW 528i Sedan $97,400
BMW 535i Sedan $116,900
BMW ActiveHybrid 5 $119,900
BMW 535d Sedan $121,900
BMW 550i Sedan $159,900
BMW 520d Touring $90,900
BMW 535i Touring $122,900
BMW 520d Gran Turismo $93,900
BMW 530d Gran Turismo $108,900
BMW 535i Gran Turismo $117,900

*Manufacturer's Recommended List Price is shown and includes GST and Luxury Car Tax (LCT) - if applicable, but excludes dealer charges, stamp duty, statutory charges and on-road charges, which are additional and vary between dealers and States/Territories. Customers are advised to contact their nearest BMW dealer for all pricing inquiries.

Images: BMW