New details emerge on next-gen BMW 5-series sedan
A class leader since its inception, the
5-series remains a crucial car in BMW's lineup, so there's a great deal
of anticipation surrounding the next-generation model. That car is due
to arrive late this year for the 2010 model year, and heavily disguised
sedan prototypes have already been seen testing around the streets of
Munich, as have Touring variants. Today new details have emerged from
Germany outlining the car's appearance and features.
Most of the planned changes are just skin-deep. Contrary to some
reports that the 5-series would shrug off its controversial exterior
for the next generation, the latest news, issuing from http://www.autozeitung.de/der-neue-bmw-5er" rel=" - Auto Zeitung , reveals that BMW may in fact be embracing the 5-series' polarizing looks, including some influence from the inflammatory http://www.motorauthority.com/bmw-unveils-new-cs-concept.html" rel=" - CS Concept . This is an odd strategy, however, given that the recently revealed http://www.motorauthority.com/revealed-2009-bmw-7-series-images-leak.html" rel=" - all-new 7-series has moved away from the Bangle-influence flame-surfacing design to a more generally palatable look.
Under the new sheet metal, inclusion of some aspects of the new
7-series' technical upgrades is possible as well. Dynamic Drive active
anti-roll bars, four-wheel steering and active dampers could all be
part of a higher-end performance package for the executive sedan. Some
safety features, such as the night-vision system, lane departure
warning and active brake assist are likely to make the migration to the
5-series as well.
BMW will also continue with its new found love of turbocharging. The
4.4L twin-turbo V8 from the X6 is expected to appear in a range topping
model, while more turbo-diesel variants are expected to join the lineup
as well. BMW is currently developing its second generation common rail
system for its diesel powerplants, which operate at greater pressure
for improved performance. In Europe, a 204hp (152kW) 2.0L twin-turbo
four-cylinder diesel engine is also likely to be included, but isn't
expected to hop the pond to the U.S. Eventually, hybrid versions will
also be on the table, though possibly not until a mid-cycle refresh
several years after the new car's debut.
The transmission systems will include a six-speed manual and a
six-speed Steptronic semi-auto gearbox, however a new eight-speed unit
from ZF is also expected to be available. Coming in towards the end of
2010 will be the http://www.motorauthority.com/news/sedans/preview-2010-bmw-m5-saloon/" rel=" - next-generation M5
sporting a larger displacement 5.5L V10 and possibly forced induction
for extra power. Later in 2011, expect the inclusion of stop-start
technology for reduced emissions and improved fuel economy in the less
performance-oriented models.
Performance of all models will be improved thanks to the extensive use
of lightweight materials including carbon-fiber and aluminum. The car’s
construction will be a hybrid of an aluminum spaceframe for the front
section, and a traditional steel monocoque for the passenger
compartment and rear. This will ensure a favorable front-to-rear weight
distribution and improved handling. Up front will be an independent
suspension with MacPherson struts, with a multi-link layout for the
rear. High-performance models will include carbon-fiber body panels to
shed even more weight.
Inside, the car will have a more spacious interior, especially for
rear-seat passengers, while the center console will be oriented more
towards the driver and run an updated version of iDrive. Headroom will
be similar to the current model, despite a shorter roof for the new
car, while trunk volume will grow to 550L. Wheel sizes will range from
17, 18 and 19in, and a new electrohydraulic brake system will also be
added, which will improve braking distances and stability.
Gallery: 2010 BMW 5-series spied next to current model
- http://www.motorauthority.com/gallery/2010-bmw-5-series-spied-next-to-current-model/2010-bmw-x5-spy-motorauthority-001.html">
- http://www.motorauthority.com/gallery/2010-bmw-5-series-spied-next-to-current-model/2010-bmw-x5-spy-motorauthority-002.html">
- http://www.motorauthority.com/gallery/2010-bmw-5-series-spied-next-to-current-model/2010-bmw-x5-spy-motorauthority-003.html">
- http://www.motorauthority.com/gallery/2010-bmw-5-series-spied-next-to-current-model/2010-bmw-x5-spy-motorauthority-004.html">
[ http://www.motorauthority.com/preview-bmws-2010-5-series.html - motorauthority.com ]
------------- Current: 2009 E60 520d "Sport" tractor Previous: 1989 E30 320i SE 1997 E39 523i 2003 E39 525i Sport Individual
|