BMW’s saloon, the 5 Series, was facelifted in May 2023. Almost a year later, the new generation saloon has made its way to India with the i5 M60x drive first. Now, we were showcased the LWB 5 series for India. This is the third LWB saloon in India after the 3 and 7 Series and will be launched on July 24. The design is all new and has nothing to do with either sedans in its class. A bit of resemblance to the 2 Series, though. The new butterfly-ish grille design with illumination, the bronze colour around it, which is also seen on the door sills and rear bumpers. The test car in grey with black and bronze looked something fresh and new. All this can be a hit or a miss with certain audiences.
The front and rear wheels are 18-inch five-spoke wheels have a BMW India first high profile rubber instead of run flats. The styling has a flow to it, but it is sophisticated and a BMW at first glance. You see the M badge on the front and the number ‘5’ on the C-pillar. Simple or not, there’s no lack of contrast with the black skirt and champagne gold detailing on the windowsill. Dimensions are mind-blowing. The Length 5,175 mm, width 1,900 mm and height 1,520 mm, with wheelbase of 3,105 mm. These numbers far superior to the current and upcoming E-Class, both.
The horizontal LED elements in the rear lamps look great, and the diffuser-like rear bumper gives it a sporty stance. The interior of the new generation BMW 5 Series looks quite futuristic. The large screen takes up most of the space, with a free 12.3-inch screen and 14.9-inch infotainment system for the driver. We hope you won’t be able to see the vent, as it’s well hidden in the panel and don’t protrude any more.
The centre console has lots of crystal elements, it looks stylish and BMW is really proud that the entire cabin is made from plant-based materials. The mood lighting is well done here. There’s wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting, head-up display, signal control and 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound. Unsurprisingly, there are no media controls or sunshades for rear passengers, but they’ll appreciate the dual-C ports and rear charging pads for their devices. Standard safety equipment includes traction control, brake assist, traction control, multiple airbags and a tire monitoring system. No word on engines yet, we expect to see 4-cylinder diesel and petrol engines with six-cylinder petrol engine and a powerful i5 already on sale.
The new BMW 5 Series could retail at Rs 75 lakhs (ex-showroom). The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is going to have the toughest fight it has till date. The other models it will go against are the Audi A6 and Volvo S90.
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