2011 BMW 5 Series: First Look
- Competes with: Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Infiniti M
- Looks like: The 5 Series and 3 Series are finally playing for the same team
- Drivetrain: 240-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder (528i); 300-hp, twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder (535i); or 400-hp, twin-turbo V-8 (550i) with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions; rear- or all-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: 2010
There’s no reason to doubt that the new 5 has similar potential. It’s more aerodynamic than its eyebrow-adorned predecessor — effectively taking on a lot of the styling themes from the 3 Series and 7 Series. Frankly, we’re glad BMW went with this face instead of the 550i Gran Turismo hatchback’s stubby mug.
BMW says the 5 and 7 share the same platform. That’s apparent on the inside where the two cars have similar dashboard contours, complete with a massive 10.2-inch navigation display and the backlit Black Panel gauges BMW has adopted of late. Alas, the automatic transmission still uses BMW’s less-than-ergonomic electronic shifter.
The 5 Series will initially be available in 535i and 550i guise, packing a 300-horsepower six-cylinder or a 400-hp V-8, respectively. Both engines have twin turbochargers, and the six now sports BMW’s Valvetronic technology for lower-end power delivery than last year’s 535i. Later on next year, a 528i will arrive with a 240-hp, non-turbo six-cylinder to slot in at the bottom of the lineup. BMW says it will also offer versions of all three sedans with its xDrive all-wheel drive. There’s no word on a Griswold-ready 5 Series wagon; even if one is made it might not be imported into the U.S.
BMW will pair all three 5 Series engines with its new eight-speed automatic, which is also installed on the 5 Series Gran Turismo hatchback and the V-12 760Li. The automaker will also offer a proper six-speed manual on the 535i and 550i.
High-tech features include the usual raft we’d expect for a car in this age and of this league, including blind spot and lane departure warning systems, an adaptive suspension and adaptive cruise control with full-stop technology. Like Infiniti’s Around View Monitor, BMW’s Top View system creates a top-down view of the car using cameras positioned in the rear bumper and side mirrors. Like various Toyota and Ford products, the 5 Series will also offer a self-parking feature.
We haven’t heard word yet on when the 2011 5 Series will be available, but we presume it will be sometime after the Gran Turismo — which is technically a 2010 model — hits dealerships at the end of this year. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but expect the 535i to start around the current model’s $51,100.
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God this looks SOOOO much better than Chris Bangle's botched up trash. He is one of THE worst car designers ever! Hooray for a great transition!!
y does BMW still continue 2 put side repeaters in fender rather than in the side mirror? Even the Kia Forte has them mirror mounted. I also think it's time they updated the interiors, looking a bit dated IMHO....luv those "lava lamp" taillights! I do like the way the rear turn signals look red but blink orange(at least on the Euro spec)
Eh, I think this is an imitation of the 3 series. It should be the other way around. And while Bangle may have made some cars look particularly ugly, the last generation 5-series was not one of them. The 3-series coupe is the best looking car in BMW's lineup.
Belly is correct about the 3 series coupe - one sharp ride. This five looks good, but I wish they would have been more original with the tailights, which look exactly like the Infiniti G series. For 60,000 you expect original styling elements.
3.0L to pump out 240hp only?
Are we in 2003 now?
That's what the Accord did back then!
Mei Ling from auto123.ca is so ugly.
it does look like a stretched 3 series but i would still buy it. cant go wrong with bmw except for the x3 which has been around forever and the x1 which is just ugly
NICE... Now I can FINALLY trade in my 2003 540i. The last gen was so ugly that I would not buy it. E-class is to boring for me and the M45 looks like an Altima. This looks 100% better!
I really expect this BMW 5 Series to be a hit. It is a very well done one, and I sincerely like it.
BMW company produces fantastic car. I ride on this car on my sister wedding. Comfortable, luxury... Yeah!