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

Redesigned versions of the 7 Series sedan and Z4 roadster have left the 5 Series as one of the last relics of BMW’s chiseled, avant-garde styling. (OK, the 6 Series soldiers on, but that one came out of the oven better to start with.) The polarizing styling didn’t stop the 5 from topping its segment in sales — or at least sharing the perch with its perennial archrival, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which is selling at a breakneck pace after a recent redesign of its own.
 
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.

2010 BMW 5 Series GT, an Expensive Hatchback

BMW announced the pricing for its all-new 2010 550i Gran Turismo; it starts at $63,900, before a $825 destination charge. That may sound like a lot of money at first, but the 2010 550i sedan starts at $60,400 and doesn’t come packing the twin-turbo V-8 found in the GT, which is also equipped with the company’s first-ever eight-speed automatic. The 400-horsepower hatchback can get to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, which is fast. It's so fast that people might not look closely at the design; instead they could focus on the GT's unique features like the split rear hatch, which can open like a traditional hatchback or a car trunk.

We haven’t tested the GT yet, but we've had plenty of seat time behind the wheel of the $67,050 X6, which packs the same engine but with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. That sport-tuned SUV is a blast to drive despite its polarizing looks, so maybe the 550i GT will win people over with what’s under its skin, too.

Full option pricing is below.The 550i Gran Turismo is slated to go on sale next month.

Reader Review of the Week: 2009 BMW 550

“Car Guy” from Oakland, Calif., has a lot of experience with fast luxury cars, but the 2009 BMW 550i is one of his personal favorites. He needs more than two seats, but wants to sacrifice as little of his fun as possible. Check out why the 550i leaves him satisfied, even if BMW’s cupholders fail to meet his standards. After you’re done, post a review of your own vehicle here.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo: First Look

• Competes with: Infiniti FX, Acura MDX, Audi A6 Avant
• Looks like: A cross between an X5 and 5 Series Wagon
• Drivetrain: 400-hp, 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 with eight-speed automatic transmission
• Hits dealerships: Late 2009

BMW has been rapidly expanding its lineup as of late. No longer content with wagons and SUVs, the company adds its second hatchback in a year’s time, the 5 Series Gran Turismo. Following on the heels of the X6, which got a lukewarm reception, the 5 Series Gran Turismo promises a lot of power and a unique cargo area. We’re not sure if the combination will entice consumers.

Like the X6, the Gran Turismo comes with a twin-turbo V-8 engine good for 400 hp, however, this is the only option for the vehicle. Also unlike the X6, this is a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, which means the 550i Gran Turismo will be more of a performance machine. A 535 xi Gran Turismo will be offered in Europe, but there's no mention of it coming to the U.S. Sales of the 550i GT might be the measuring stick for BMW to consider bringing over the twin-turbo six-cylinder.