New BMW 5 Series: Redefining the Luxury Saloon?
The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series will go down in history as a model that the firm from Munich used to go all out when it introduced it in Mzansi in 2017.
Besides featuring some of the advanced driver-assistance systems borrowed from the flagship 7 Series, the then-brutal M5 halo model was the first performance sedan to feature the all-wheel drive xDrive system with selectable M xDrive modes; 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD for some tail-happy sessions when the need arises.
At the same time, the regular 5 Series variants were just all-around models that BMW worked hard to perfect, with the 520d being the pick of the lot, thanks to its unmatched efficiency and decent performance.
With the facelifted model introduced in late 2020, we feel like the 5 Series wasn't in dire need of a replacement as it still looks fresh and upmarket to keep up with the latest E-Class and Audi A6, to name a few.
The 8th Wonder
Now entering its 8th generation, BMW has lifted the veil off its brand-new 5 Series, which BMW says it's more dynamic than ever and comes with a wealth of digital innovations and a fully-electric model for the first time.
Speaking of dimensions, it has grown in length by 97 mm to 5,060 mm while its width has been stretched by 32 mm to 1,900 mm and its height by 36 mm to 1,515 mm. The wheelbase has been lengthened for more interior space by 20 mm to 2,995 mm.
BMW has done a superb job regarding the exterior of the new 5 Series. It looks like nothing we've encountered before from the BMW basket but with minimal resemblance to the outgoing model if you pay attention to detail.
The new model features twin LED headlights arranged vertically, a large kidney grille, optional BMW Iconic Glow contoured lighting, darkened side skirts, flush-mounted door handles, and an embossed number 5 on the C-pillar.
The back is fitted with flat rear lights separated by a chrome strip with the L-shape signature lighting. It can be had with standard 19" alloy wheels.
Buyers can choose between the optional M Sport Package and the M Sport Package Pro for added appeal.
Fully-Vegan Interior
Besides reducing buttons and controls inside in favour of digitisation, the 5 Series is the first BMW model to be fully vegan inside, which means there is no use of animal-derived materials like leather or wool anywhere inside the car.
Standard sports and optional comfort seats have a wide range of electrically operated adjustment options. Other options include the BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery in several bicolour variants.
As for the cockpit, it's made up of the BMW Curved Display formed by a 12.3" information display and 14.9" control display similar to the ones fitted in the current 3 Series. The tweaked steering wheel now boasts a flattened lower section and haptic feedback on the control panels - we hope they aren't prone to unintentional activation.
For the South African market, BMW will introduce the 520d and the i5 M60 xDrive models, supplemented by two variants with plug-in hybrid powertrains in early 2024. A new in-line 6-cylinder diesel variant will be added to the range sometime in 2024.
The entire ICE-powered lineup features the 48-volt mild hybrid technology for better efficiency and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission by default.
The 520d uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that shoves 145 kW and 400 Nm either to the rear or all-fours in the case of the model with the xDrive system.
First-ever i5 M50 xDrive
While we would choose diesel over anything, the i5 M60 xDrive on the other hand, is also not a bad choice with an EV range of up to 516 km, thanks to an 81.2 kWh battery pack that feeds power to two electric motors on the front and rear axles.
The motors generate 442 kW of power and up to 820 Nm with the M Sport Boost or the M Launch Control function. And performance? It hurtles from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds before hitting the limiter at 230 km/h.
As standard, the M60's battery pack can be recharged using the AC charging with an output of up to 11 kW and up to 22 kW as an option. A DC charger with a power of up to 205 can also be used and will get the pack recharged from 10 to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.
Pure Marvel
The BMW 5 Series has always been a car that offers plenty of space and luxury features while being a worthy contender on the open road. With the new model, BMW has created something that puts the 5 Series back on the luxury executive saloon radar.
The 5 Series has always been positioned between the 3 Series and BMW's flagship 7 Series saloon, and the new model continues this tradition with its impressive list of technology features and luxurious amenities. It's a car that will impress anyone looking for a high-end vehicle that offers both comfort and performance.
The new BMW 5 Series is expected to launch in SA, likely in the fourth quarter of the year.
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