BMW has unveiled the new 5-Series globally. The new G60 5-Series is more of an evolution over the outgoing model. The standard car will reach dealerships across the world from October 2023. Meanwhile, the 6-cylinder version will commence production from November 2023 and the plug-in 5-Series along with the high-performance M5 version is expected later in 2024.
As mentioned before, the overall design is more of an evolution than an all-new model. Hence, there have been more subtle changes than anything drastic. One of the main updates is the new grille. Unlike the in-your-face design of the new 7-Series, BMW has gone for a regular sized grille. Other new bits include door handles that retract, updated bumpers with blacked out portions, and sleek tail lights.
In terms of size, the BMW 5-Series is now 85mm long, 33mm wider and 35mm taller than the outgoing model. The new sedan also has a 20mm longer wheelbase, which translates to extra rear leg room. The German carmaker also claims a low drag coefficient of 0.23.
The main change in the interior is the fact that the German carmaker now uses a fully vegan interior. This is the first BMW model to come with an all-vegan insides. The new 5-Series also comes with a dual cockpit borrowed from the new 3-Series, M2 and the 7-Series to name a few. It appears that BMW will use this design for future cars as well. The G60 also comes with the iDrive 8.5, which recently debuted in the i7 M70.
Owners will also be able to configure the car with multiple customization options along with a long list of optional extras. BMW will offer multiple interior finishes and upholstery colours.
Apart from the electric models, the new 5-Series is expected to get four and six-cylinder options. These will be followed up by the high performance M5 model along with a plug-in version as well later. BMW has also unveiled all-electric powertrains for the new 5-Series, but it is unlikely to arrive at our shores.
The 520i will be the first in the G60 line-up. It is rated at 205 HP and a slightly lower 190 HP for Europe. The 520d meanwhile will develop 197 HP. THe plug-in 530e comes in at 299 HP while the 550e gets 498 HP.
The 530i comes with a 4-cylinder 2.0-petrol good for 255 HP. This motor is available in both rear and four-wheel-drive options. However, it is unlikely to get launched in India. The more powerful 540i will come with xDrive as standard and feature a 3.0-liter inline-six petrol with 375 HP. The 0-100 km/h time is claimed to be 4.5 seconds.
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