THE eighth generation BMW 5 Series sedan arrives in Australia later this year with just one petrol model, the rest being fully electric versions.
BMW says the new 5 Series is the most advanced ever developed and will bring to market an array of features and digital innovations while delivering new levels of luxury, style and dynamic potential.
It will also be the first 5 Series to feature all-electric drive with the i5, which will be offered to Australian customers in two variants alongside the sole petrol model, the 520i which also includes 48-volt mild hybrid technology for the engine to further boost efficiency and lower consumption.
The new model has grown in length by 97mm to 5.1m, in width by 32mm to 1.9m and in height by 36mm to 1.5m.
Its wheelbase has lengthened by 20mm to almost 3m.
The front view is characterised by a modern interpretation of the twin headlights and BMW kidney grille.
All BMW 5 Series models for Australia are fitted as standard with the M Sport package, while the fully electric i5 models can be specified with M Sport Plus.
A range of paint finishes that perfectly complement the new styling package is also available, including three BMW Individual options.
The cockpit has a significantly reduced number of buttons and controls compared with the predecessor model.
This is achieved by consistently digitalising functions.
The BMW Curved Display reinterprets the brand’s hallmark idea of driver orientation.
The fully digital display system comprises a 12.3in information display and a 14.9in control display.
The all-electric BMW i5 is equipped with comprehensively enhanced fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology.
The range-topping BMW i5 M60 xDrive combines a 442kW electric drive with two electric motors driving front and rear wheels.
Torque generated is up to 820Nm when M Sport Boost or the M Launch Control function is activated, enabling the BMW i5 M60 to accelerate from zero to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds.
Its top speed is electronically limited to 230km/h.
The BMW i5 eDrive40 features an electric motor driving the rear wheels and generates output of 250kW and torque of up to 430Nm with the Sport Boost or Launch Control function.
The BMW i5 eDrive40 accelerates from zero to 100km/h in six seconds and its top speed is 193km/h. The WLTP driving ranges are 516km for the i5 M60 xDrive and 582km for the i5 eDrive40.
The 520i will be powered by an all-new four-cylinder unit with turbocharging and 48-volt mild hybrid technology.
Contact Grant Woolcock at Westco BMW on 4020 8996
