BMW has revealed the new 5 Series, which gets a refreshed exterior, updated technology and electrified powertrains.
The Saloon model will be available with three plug-in hybrid engines, with a 530e and 545e offered with all-wheel drive and an option of rear-wheel drive on the 530e. Touring (estate) models will have the 530e options available from November.
All four- and six-cylinder models that aren’t a plug-in hybrid will get a mild-hybrid powertrain. This uses a 48v starter generator to take the load off the engine and improve both acceleration and fuel consumption.
Exterior changes include a larger, lower front grille, slimmer headlights that are full LED as standard, reshaped rear lights and redesigned rear bumper.
Inside, the central infotainment display has increased in size from 10.25in to 12.3in and receives BMW’s latest generation operating system.
There are three trim levels: SE, M Sport and M Sport Edition. Saloon models, meanwhile, get an M Performance M550i xDrive option for the first time. Standard on the SE is a choice of 17 to 19in alloy wheels, leather upholstery and heated front seats. New equipment for this trim includes folding mirrors, parking assistant and DAB radio.
M Sport gets new alloy wheel designs in 18 to 20in sizes, an M body kit, M leather steering wheel, front sports seats and a distinctive instrument panel. M Sport suspension is standard except on 530e variants.
The M550i xDrive Saloon sits separately from all other models in the 5 Series hierarchy, boasting a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine, exclusive 20in alloy wheels, grey exterior detailing, a Harman/Kardon surround sound system, M sport differential and adaptive M suspension.
The range will be launched in July. Prices for the saloon start at £37,480 for the 520i in SE trim, while the Touring starts at £39,730 in the same specification. The M550i xDrive starts at £67,595.