CARVERSAL

A product to spice up the competition of E-Class has been disclosed by BMW, as it has come up with its first set of details for its next gen 5-series, just a month after Mercedes-Benz showcased its new E-Class. The next-gen 5-series (codenamed:G60) is going to get an all electric i5 version just as the i7 for the latest 7-series.It will be offered with gasoline, diesel, and hybrid plug-in powertrains as well.

Exterior

In terms of its styling features, the new 5-Series is just an evolution of its previous generation rather than a revolution. BMW does not traditionalize the 5-series with its modern split headlight and huge grille configuration ( we think it is just kept for the ultra premium offering from the brand ), but keeps the 5-series more subtle and more similar to its previous generation. However, it does get flush-fit door handles similar to the 7-series, revamped sporty bumpers with blacked out inserts, and sleek tail-lights at the rear to make it look more modern.

The 5-series in terms of dimensions is around 85mm longer, 33mm wider, and 35mm taller, along with a 20mm longer wheelbase compared to its previous model. The next-gen provides more legroom than before and also offers a drag coefficient of 0.23, meaning it is more aerodynamic.

Interior

Coming to its interior, the new 5-series is packing almost all the new-age BMW tech, as it gets the latest twin-screen cockpit layout that can also be seen on the new 3-series, M2, and the latest 7-series as well. It uses the latest iDrive 8.5 system, which previously debuted in the i7 M70. However, the screen size remains the same, with a 12.3 inch driver’s display and 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment. The interior trim and seating also get a long list of accents and finishing options, including the new fully vegan interior option, which makes the 5-series the first BMW to showcase this option.

Platform and Powertrain

The new 5-Series will be based upon BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform, which is the same platform that underpins all the BMWs that feature longitudinally mounted engines or electric drivetrains.

The 5-series line-up will initially include the 520i, 520d, and 520d xDrive models. The 530e and 550e xDrive hybrids will join them in Europe a while later. There are also plans of launching a 6-cylinder diesel in some of the markets.

In terms of powertrain, the 5-series gets:

• The entry-level 520i will have 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine that will produce around 205 hp. A lower spec engine will be available in some markets in Europe and will produce around 190 hp.

• The 520d gets a 2.0L diesel engine that will generate around 197 hp.

• The 530e plug-in hybrid gets a 2.0L engine and generates the combined power output of 299 hp.

• 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid will get a 3.0L inline six that produces around 375 hp that achieves 0-100kph in just 4.5 seconds.

Americans will get a 530i with a 2.0L turbo petrol 4-cylinder which will support an RWD or AWD xDrive setup and produce around 255 hp. The capable 540i will also come there, but only in xDrive and equipped with a 3.0L inline six that will produce around 375 hp and be able to do 0-100 kph in 4.5 seconds.

According to our sources, due to the popularity of the 5-Series in India and consideration of its rival, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the next-gen will come to India with the long-wheelbase layout as well.

We expect the 8th gen 5-Series LWB to come to India sometime in 2024, where it will also see competition from the next-gen Mercedes Benz E-Class.

According to us, it will surely be a good clash to see, as both the E-Class and 5 Series now pack some exciting elements in them. Though its not that tough to guess that, most probably the 5 series will be an attraction for all the enthusiasts and the Merc E-Class will be a buy for all those finding some comfort both ( visual & physical ).