New BMW 5 Series Facelift in Depth

Press Release

More convincingly than any other car in its class, the BMW 5 Series combines supreme style and presence, on the one hand, with sporting power and performance, on the other. And now the looks, driving experience and superior comfort offered by the 5 Series reach a new standard of perfection, highly attractive modifications on the exterior and significant, visible and tangible enhancement of style and sophistication in the interior accentuating the sporting, elegant and classy character of both the BMW 5 Series Saloon and the BMW 5 Series Touring.

The premium ambience within the car’s interior is borne out by particularly sophisticated materials, attractive colours and re-designed interior elements and controls.

Power units even more muscular than before and with exceptional all-round efficiency raise the line-up of engines in the BMW 5 Series to an even higher standard never experienced before, BMW’s petrol and diesel engines already widely lauded for their superior power and supreme refinement now also taking the lead in terms of economy in all performance classes.

Benefiting from this kind of power, the BMW 5 Series is entering a new dimension of Efficient Dynamics attributable to a wide range of enhancements on and around the engine for maximum fuel economy and minimum emissions. A particular highlight is BMW’s innovative High Precision Injection direct fuel injection technology featured on the straight-six power units.
Other new developments on the drivetrain are the particularly quick and precise six-speed automatic transmission as well as BMW’s unique Automatic Sports Transmission.

Being directly connected to the engine and featuring precise gear management and selection, the automatic transmission versions of the three most powerful petrol-engined models in the new BMW 5 Series boast even greater fuel economy than their respective manual gearbox counterparts. And as a further highlight three engine variants on the new BMW 5 Series are available with BMW xDrive permanent and variable all-wheel-drive technology. On this intelligent all-wheel-drive system, optimised control and management electronics ensure an even more spontaneous and precise response to changes in driving conditions.

The new BMW 5 Series also offers a wide range of innovations in driver assistance and comfort features. As an example, it is the only car in its segment available with Active Steering, a High-Beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision, a Head-Up Display and, from now on, also with Active Cruise Control featuring a Stop & Go function as well as Lane Change Warning.

Featured as standard, iDrive control with no less than eight freely programmable favourite buttons as well as an optionally available navigation system with voice control and full-word entry enhance the long-distance touring comfort of the BMW 5 Series to a new, unprecedented standard.

Exterior design: sporting character with new elegance.

New highlights in design and ongoing refinement ensure even greater harmony of sporting character and sophisticated elegance in both the BMW 5 Series Saloon and the BMW 5 Series Touring. The headlights in their characteristic look, for example, now come with new clear glass technology, transparent glass panels covering the direction indicators, chrome surrounds highlighting the technically sophisticated character of the round headlights.

The surrounds on the BMW double kidney grille, in turn, are now flush with the surfaces on the front air dam, and the air intake sweeping up at the side along the same dynamic line as the headlight contours also contributes to the smooth, harmonious and friendly look of the front end. And last but not least, the horizontal trim bar in the middle highlights the wide track of the car and its muscular stance on the road.

An additional light contour along the side-sills gives the body of both the Saloon and the Touring an even sleeker, more stretched look from the side. The rear end, in turn, is dominated by horizontal lines highlighting the look of superior power. Like the headlights at the front, the rear lights also come in a new, sophisticated clear-glass look and now feature LED direction indicators. And last but certainly not least, the trim bar around the rear numberplate is now defined even more smoothly and precisely on the new BMW 5 Series Saloon.

Refined and sophisticated style within the interior.

Enhanced control comfort, new design and particularly sophisticated materials on the surfaces give the interior of the new BMW 5 Series a new standard of quality both the driver and his passengers will see and feel at first sight, ensuring a wonderful experience of driving pleasure at all times. High-class Pearl Gloss Chrome, the very pleasant rubber finish on the controls for smooth and easy handling, comfortable padding on the door armrests and panels
as well as on the centre console all contribute to the particular style and class of the interior. At the same time additional storage options give the new BMW 5 Series an even higher standard of practical function.

The most striking feature clearly bearing out the new refinement of the car’s interior design is the twin tone finish on the door panels: Black door trim bars at the top and the lower panel section in the respective interior colour, together with elegantly sweeping decal bars, take up and continue the look and the materials used on the dashboard. The buttons for the window lifts and mirror adjustment have been integrated in the armrest, just as the handles for closing the doors have been optimised in their ergonomic design. The door pockets now integrated even more effectively than before in the door panels provide greater storage capacity for enhanced convenience on the road.

In its appealing look and ideal ergonomics, the new, electrical gear selector lever for the automatic transmission merges perfectly into the stylish interior. Control of the iDrive vehicle management system has also been optimised to an even higher standard, the Controller positioned on the centre console and the central Control Display in the dashboard serving to mastermind the Climate Control, Navigation, Entertainment and Communication functions.

Apart from enhanced menu guidance and refined graphics, particularly the new favourite buttons ensure even more intuitive control and operation of the car. The eight freely available buttons with their favourite functions allow the driver and front passenger to access important functions very quickly, smoothly and easily: All they do is press one single button to activate, say, a specific destination, a telephone number dialled frequently, or a preferred radio station saved in advance.

Power units: opening up a new dimension of Efficient Dynamics.

The new BMW 5 Series is entering the market with a choice of no less than nine power units either brand-new or thoroughly updated over the former versions. All engines offer a significant improvement in fuel economy, all engines rank right at the top in terms of all-round economy and efficiency within their respective category.

Depending on the specific engine involved, the various models in the new BMW 5 Series come with a range of technologies and features serving to minimise fuel consumption and emissions. Just some of these new technologies are Brake Energy Regeneration concentrating the generation of electricity for the on-board network on the car’s overrun and brake phases, a gearshift indicator helping the driver of a new BMW 5 Series with manual gearbox to shift gears even more economically, as well as active management of the brake and cooling air flaps serving to improve the car’s aerodynamics.

Operating on-demand, the electrical coolant pump in the new BMW 5 Series consumes much less power than a conventional pump and helps the engine reach its normal operating temperature at an earlier point. The Varioserv steering assistance pump, varying the curve ring as a function of pressure and volume flow, avoids the usual increase in drive losses as a function of higher engine speeds. And when the driver and passengers do not require the air conditioning, the a/c compressor is disconnected to reduce drag forces to a minimum.

Right at the top of the engine range, the two eight-cylinders, benefiting from optimised engine management and numerous innovations for enhanced fuel economy, offer a standard of efficiency quite unheard of in this performance class. Powered by a 4.8-litre, 270 kW/367 hp V8, the BMW 550i accelerates to 100 km/h in just 5.2 (Saloon) and, respectively, 5.3 (Touring) seconds.
Top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle, finally, is just 10.9 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 25.9 mpg Imp) in the Saloon and 11.2 litres/100 kilometres (25.2 mpg Imp) in the Touring, while the automatic transmission models are even more economical and fuel-efficient in each case, reducing fuel consumption to just 10.3 litres (27.4 mpg Imp) for the Saloon and 10.7 litres (26.4 mpg Imp) for the Touring.

Developing maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp from engine capacity of 4.0 litres, the eight-cylinder in the BMW 540i also offers sporting performance of the highest calibre. Acceleration to 100 km/h comes in 6.1 seconds and top speed is again limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

The dynamic driving experience provided by this model is also enhanced by truly remarkable all-round economy, with average fuel consumption in the manual gearbox model of 10.5 litres/100 kilometres (26.9 mpg Imp) on the Saloon and 9.7 litres (29.1 mpg Imp) in the BMW 540i with automatic transmission.

Straight-six with High Precision Injection.

The range of straight-six power units available for the BMW 5 Series comprises no less than three different power and performance versions.
Two of these engines displace 3.0 litres, the third is a 2.5-litre.
The most important highlight in technology featured by all of these power units is BMW’s second generation direct fuel injection allowing fuel-efficient lean burn operation throughout a broad range of engine loads and running speeds and therefore providing a significant improvement of all-round efficiency also in everyday motoring.

This superiority is ensured by innovative piezo-injectors arranged between the valves and injecting fuel into the combustion chambers in the immediate vicinity of the spark plug. This particular position of the spark plug achieved by BMW’s engine development specialists despite the limited space within the combustion chambers is the prerequisite for the new jet-guided combustion process. The result is particularly precise fuel injection without the usual losses of fuel on the walls of the combustion chamber.

In the BMW 530i the 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine develops a dynamic 200 kW/272 hp. Acceleration to 100 km/h comes in 6.3 seconds in the Saloon and takes 6.5 seconds in the BMW 530i Touring. Top speed of both models, in turn, is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

At 7.7 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 36.7 mpg Imp) (Saloon) and 7.9 litres/100 kilometres (35.8 mpg Imp) (Touring), average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is approximately 12 per cent better than with the former models. And the improvement of fuel efficiency is even greater on the BMW 530i with automatic transmission, being reduced to 7.5 litres (Saloon) and, respectively, 7.7 litres (Touring) (37.7 and, respectively, 36.7 mpg Imp).

The BMW 525i also boasts a 3.0-litre straight-six within its engine bay, in this case developing maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp. This accelerates the Saloon to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and provides a top speed of 248 km/h or 154 mph. The BMW 525i Touring, in turn, accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of 243 km/h or 151 mph. Average fuel consumption under the EU standard is 7.4 litres/100 kilometres (38.2 mpg Imp) (Saloon) and, respectively, 7.7 litres/100 kilometres (36.7 mpg Imp) (Touring).

The third six-cylinder with High Precision Injection is the 2.5-litre power unit developing 140 kW/190 hp in the BMW 523i – which again makes this engine 10 kW/14 hp and, respectively, 5 Newton metres/3.7 lb-ft more powerful than its predecessor. On the road, this kind of power enables the BMW 523i Saloon to accelerate to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 237 km/h or 147 mph.

The BMW 523i Touring, in turn, accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 230 km/h or 143 mph. Average fuel consumption of 7.3 litres/100 km (equal to 38.7 mpg Imp) (Saloon) and, respectively, 7.7 litres/100 km (36.7 mpg Imp) (Touring) is approximately 12 per cent lower than on the former models.

Diesel engines full of muscle and all-round economy.

The diesel-powered BMW 535d, BMW 530d and BMW 525d successfully combine impressive thrust with supreme all-round efficiency. Apart from displacing a substantial 3.0 litres, the straight-six power units featured in these outstanding models also share turbocharging and third-generation common-rail fuel injection. So over and above their superior economy, BMW’s six-cylinder diesels stand out in particular through their impressive power and muscle interacting with exemplary smoothness and refinement at all times.

Each of the new diesel engines comes with an all-aluminium crankcase ensuring a significant reduction of weight. This not only ensures an even higher standard of fuel economy, but also means a significant improvement of agility thanks to the reduced load on the front axle. Emission management has also been improved, with a particulates filter of the latest generation and an oxidation catalyst integrated in one joint housing.

The new version of BMW’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder with Variable Twin Turbo (VTT) technology featured in the BMW 535d is a truly fascinating example of Efficient Dynamics. The special feature of VTT turbocharging is that a small turbocharger is initially activated at lower engine speeds and serves to boost power spontaneously and without the slightest delay thanks to its low level of inertia reduced to an absolute minimum. Then, with the engine picking up speed, the second, larger turbocharger also cuts in, helping to develop maximum torque of 580 Newton-metres or 427 lb-ft at just 1,750 rpm.

Standing out as the most sporting and dynamic diesel engine in its class the world over, the power unit in the BMW 535d develops 10 kW/14 hp more than before, with maximum output now reaching 210 kW/286 hp. This accelerates the BMW 535d to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds (Touring: 6.5 seconds), with the top speed limited electronically on both the Saloon and Touring to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

Fuel economy has also been enhanced to a new level of perfection never seen before: Average fuel consumption of the new BMW 535d in the EU test cycle is now just 6.8 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 41.5 mpg Imp) (Saloon) or, respectively, 7.0 litres/100 kilometres (40.3 mpg Imp) (Touring), a reduction by approximately 15 per cent versus the former model.

Optimised: 3.0-litre diesel with variable turbine geometry.

Engine output in the new BMW 530d is now 173 kW/235 hp. This version of the 3.0-litre power unit boasts a turbocharger system with variable turbine geometry (VTG) for muscular and, at the same time, harmonious development of power and performance under all conditions. And again, this power unit develops its maximum torque – in this case 500 Newton-metres or 369 lb-ft – at just 1,750 rpm. The result is powerful acceleration to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds (Saloon) or, respectively, 6.9 seconds (Touring). Top speed of the new BMW 530d, in turn, is 250 km/h (155 mph) in the Saloon and 245 km/h (152 mph) in the Touring. At 6.4 (6.6) litres/100 km (equal to 44.1 and, respectively, 42.8 mpg Imp), average fuel consumption under the EU standard is about 12 per cent lower than on the former models.

The third version of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder develops maximum output of 145 kW/197 hp and peak torque of 400 Newton-metres (295 lb-ft). This kind of power accelerates the BMW 525d Saloon to 100 km/h in 7.6 seconds, with the Touring completing the same sprint in 7.8 seconds. Top speed of the Saloon is 237 km/h or 147 mph, while the Touring has a top speed of 232 km/h or 144 mph. Fuel consumption under the EU standard, finally, is 6.2 litres/100 km (equal to 45.6 mpg Imp) on the Saloon and 6.4 litres/100 km (44.1 mpg Imp) on the Touring, a reduction of up to 17 per cent versus the former models, depending on the car’s transmission.

The entry-level model into the new BMW 5 Series comes with BMW’s four-cylinder diesel displacing 2.0 litres already well known for its superior muscle and economy. Further features of this equally outstanding engine are common-rail fuel injection and a VTG turbocharger.

Developing maximum output of 120 kW/163 hp combined with peak torque of 340 Nm/251 lb-ft, the power unit featured in the BMW 520d also ensures sporting performance and dynamism on the road: The Saloon accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.6, the Touring in 8.9 seconds, and the top speed of the two models is 223 km/h (138 mph) and, respectively, 218 km/h (135 mph). Average fuel consumption, finally, is 5.9 (6.1) litres/100 kilometres, equal to 47.9 and, respectively, 46.3 mpg Imp.

Optional: six-speed automatic transmission and automatic sports mode.

As an option and, indeed, as a highly interesting alternative to the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, all model variants in the BMW 5 Series are available with a six-speed automatic transmission (which is standard on the BMW 535d).

Apart from the direct connection to the engine, this transmission stands out in particular through its upgraded hydraulics, innovative torque converter and even more powerful management software, ensuring an even more spontaneous response to even the slightest movement of the gas pedal and an extremely fast and efficient gearshift. On the road, this means reaction times now some 40 per cent faster than on former automatic transmission models, with the actual gearshift time being almost halved. Shifting back a gear is now just as fast, too, thanks to the direct gear path finder.

The automatic transmission is controlled by an electronic gear selector lever following the usual gearshift pattern.

The new gear selector lever moves back to its initial position once the gear selected is in mesh, with the transmission itself masterminded not in a mechanical process, but rather via electrical signals. As an additional alternative to the manual gearbox, the six-speed Automatic Sports Transmission is now making its debut in the BMW 550i, BMW 530i, BMW 535d, and BMW 530d. This new Automatic Sports Transmission offers the high standard of motoring comfort so typical of the latest generation of automatic transmissions and at the same time allows the driver to shift gears in even more sporting style in the manual mode, the driver choosing gears sequentially either by means of the gear selector lever introduced exclusively for this special transmission or by means of gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Pressing the Sports Button, the driver is able to make the entire shift process even more dynamic, the gearshift commands provided by the paddles being implemented even more spontaneously than before. Even the progressive rate of the gas pedal is modified in this case in order to provide optimum conditions for dynamic acceleration at all times.

Active Steering for unique driving comfort.

Featured as standard in the BMW 5 Series, Servotronic serves to vary the degree of steering assistance as a function of road speed. At the same time the BMW 5 Series is the only car in its segment optionally also available with Active Steering varying the steering angle in accordance with the speed at which the car is currently travelling: With the same movement of the steering wheel, the front wheels will move further to the left and right at low speeds than at high speeds. This allows the driver to manoeuvre the car with less effort and force on the steering when parking, while at high speeds it is easier to remain precisely on track.

The power and effectiveness of the high-performance swing-calliper brakes with inner-vented brake discs is now controlled electrohydraulically on the BMW 5 Series, brake pressure being modified individually as required on all four wheels. So should the electronic control unit masterminding the electrohydraulic brake system notice that the driver is applying the brakes all-out, the system will build up brake pressure very quickly indeed, making the entire process of applying the brakes more comfortable and enhancing driving safety thanks to the shorter stopping distances.

Yet a further point is that the BMW 5 Series is equipped with an ongoing, continuous brake wear indicator providing information at all times on the condition of the brake pads.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control with new functions.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control now featuring new, innovative functions helps to make the brake system even more effective. The first and foremost DSC function is to apply the brakes on individual wheels or intervene in engine management in order to counteract any over- or under-steer in bends. Additional features incorporated within DSC are ABS brake control, ASC Automatic Stability Control, a Brake Assistant and CBC Cornering Brake Control. Then there is also Fading Compensation and a new Start-Off Assistant likewise incorporated in the DSC system on the new BMW 5 Series. Regular Dry Braking helps to ensure optimum stopping power in wet weather, and pre-loading of the brake pads enhances the brake standby function when the driver requires a particularly short stopping distance.

Even more precise: BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system for the BMW 5 Series.

BMW’s intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system available as an alternative to standard rear-wheel drive offers a particular experience in superior traction. Permanent and variable distribution of power provided by xDrive gives the BMW 530xd, the BMW 530xi and the BMW 525xi supreme driving characteristics not only on difficult terrain. Distributing the power of the engine via an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch variably to all four wheels, xDrive significantly enhances the dynamic driving qualities of the Saloon and Touring. And to ensure even more precise control of the drivetrain, the DSC and xDrive computer units are now networked with one another in a new, innovative concept.

Cruise control with brake function.

As an option the BMW 5 Series is available with cruise control complete with a special brake function. The system is activated in order to maintain the speed set by the driver in advance – at least 30 km/h or 20 mph – regard­less of the route the driver is taking or its specific profile. So depending on current requirements, the system either increases engine power or slows down the car. Contrary to conventional cruise control, this intelligent new system is able to control the road speed of the car not just via the drag force generated by the engine and by shifting down on models with automatic transmission, but also by activating the brakes, thus keeping the car at a consistent speed when, say, driving downhill for a longer distance or towing a trailer.
And using the Curve Speed Limiter, the system is also able to re­duce road speed in bends whenever required for reasons of driving dynam­ics.

Active Cruise Control complete with Stop & Go.

Even more sophisticated and refined, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go offers the driver even greater support and ease of motoring. This innovative system available for the first time as an option on automatic transmission versions of the new BMW 5 Series comes complete with automatic distance control enabling the driver to cruise along smoothly and conveniently on the motorway or country roads, with the system applying the brakes where ne­cessary until the car reaches a standstill and keeping a consistent distance from the vehicle ahead even in stop-and-go traffic at very low speeds. To provide this superior convenience, the system uses radar sensors of the latest generation with an enlarged area of vision, offering the driver a choice of four distance settings. Once the distance the driver has chosen to the vehicle ahead is no longer maintained, the system will intervene in engine management, building up brake pressure to control the car accordingly. Then, once the road ahead is free again, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go will re-accelerate the car to the desired speed. This sophisticated control system is also able to reduce speed auto­matically to a standstill as a function of traffic conditions. In this case Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go slows down the car to a stand­still and holds it in position.

The maximum brake force applied by Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go is 4 metres/sec2. So should the driver be required to intervene be­cause the vehicle ahead is being decelerated very hard under ex­treme conditions, the driver is urged to intervene by visual and acous­tic signals.

In stop-and-go traffic the system helps the driver by automatically maintaining the appropriate distance from the vehicle ahead, reliev­ing the driver of the usual chore of constantly having to apply the brakes in slow and unsmooth traffic. However, the driver still retains his responsibility, since after, say, a short stop of more than three seconds he is required to briefly press down the accelerator pedal or press the Resume button in order to re-accelerate the car. And even when Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go is activated, the driver is able to control the speed of his car at any time simply by giving gas or applying the brakes. Pressing down the brake pedal while driving, finally, the driver is able to deactivate the system altogether.

Keeping reliably on course: Lane Change Warning.

To enhance driver awareness, the new BMW 5 Series is available with a newly developed and quite unique assistance system helping to keep the car exactly on course, that is in the lane chosen by the driver. Referred to as “Lane Change Warning”, this highly innovative system identifies any deviations from the correct course of the car and gives the driver a discreet but tangible signal where he really feels the steering – on the steering wheel itself.

The Lane Change Warning system consists of a camera fitted near the interior mirror on the windscreen, a control unit serving to compare data, and a signalling device.

Head-Up Display and driver support in poor weather with bad visibility.

The BMW 5 Series is the only car in its segment available as an option with a Head-Up Display. Activating this function, the driver has the benefit of receiving information and data particularly relevant for motoring directly in front of his eyes on the windscreen. So as an example, he is able to check out the current speed of the car or navigation data in his direct line of vision with maximum convenience at all times.

In combination with the optional xenon headlights, the new BMW 5 Series comes with a daytime lights function using the corona rings in the dual round headlights. Another feature also available as an option on the new BMW 5 Series is Adaptive Headlight technology illuminating the road ahead in exactly the right way and in the right direction following the curves taken by the driver. In this case the headlights swivel in accordance with the position of the steering wheel, the yaw rate of the car, and its road speed. The Bending Lights function, in turn, adjusts the direction of the headlights when taking bends at a speed of less than 40 km/h or 25 mph.

Yet another option available in the new BMW 5 Series as the only car in its segment is the High-Beam Assistant. This sophisticated lights system automatically switches off the high-beam headlights as soon as oncoming traffic is approaching, the distance to a vehicle ahead drops below a certain level, or the road ahead is sufficiently illuminated, for example in a built-up area or on a brightly lit road.

BMW Night Vision also available as an option ensures an even higher standard of all-round safety when driving at night. Unique to the BMW 5 Series in this segment, BMW Night Vision is based on a thermal imaging camera able to detect people, animals and objects on and next to the road up to a distance of 300 metres or almost 1,000 feet, transmitting a clear, high-contrast image to the Control Display also used by the navigation system.

Audio and navigation systems of the highest calibre.

Top-end audio systems and telematics functions serve to enhance motoring comfort and driving pleasure in the new BMW 5 Series to an even higher level of enjoyment. Particularly the newly developed BMW Individual High End Audio System offers exceptional sound quality at all times. The heart of the system is BMW’s trendsetting DIRAC (Dual Input Room Acoustics Calculator) signal processing technology. The digital nine-channel amplifier with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) used in this case develops maximum output of 825 watts. The AUX-In connector, in turn, offers additional options for connecting external audio sources, and a USB interface is also available as an option. This means that in practice the driver or passengers are able to integrate all versions of the Apple iPod fully and conveniently into the audio system of the BMW 5 Series.

A particular highlight in motoring comfort in the BMW 5 Series Saloon
and Touring is the new generation of navigation systems available as an option. New menu guidance and optimised graphic presentation in the Control Display enhance both the appeal and function of these systems controlled and masterminded via BMW iDrive.

As yet a further option, the Professional navigation system also available in the BMW 5 Series can be enhanced and upgraded by new, particularly reliable full-word voice entry available exclusively in BMW cars and comprising the names of some 80,000 towns and cities throughout Germany.

Comfortable, generous, practical: the interior.

Comfortable seats and ample roominess inside the car make both the Saloon and Touring version of the BMW 5 Series ideal vehicles for grand touring and long distances. A further feature adding to the joy of driving the car is the electrical glass sliding roof available as an option on the Saloon and – with even larger dimensions – the Panorama glass roof on the BMW 5 Series Touring. Made up of two panels of sundim glass, the latter covers a total area of no less than 0.68 square metres or 7.32 square feet.

Offering luggage compartment capacity of 520 litres (18.2 cubic feet) (and even 540 litres/18.9 cubic feet on models without an emergency spare wheel), the Saloon gives the driver and his passengers superior space for taking along lots of luggage. The BMW 5 Series Touring, in turn, thanks to its luggage compartment offering up to 1,650 litres or 57.8 cubic feet of storage space when folding down the rear-seat backrest, is a particularly attractive vehicle for all kinds of transport requirements.

A further important feature is the electrically retractable trailer hook available as an option on both variants of the BMW 5 Series – and again making both models quite unique as an amenity not available on any other models. Since this new trailer hook no longer has to be fastened manually after moving out, operation and use of the trailer hook is significantly easier than before.

Powerful and supreme: eight-cylinder power units in the BMW 5 Series.

The eight-cylinder versions of the Saloon and Touring offer the highest standard of driving pleasure and performance imaginable in a BMW 5 Series: Motoring refinement of a supreme calibre, equally supreme power and muscle over a wide range of engine speed, and exemplary efficiency – these are the principal fortes of the two aluminium V8 power units. Both the 4.8-litre in the BMW 550i and the 4.0 litre in the BMW 540i come with BMW’s throttle-free VALVETRONIC valve management, double VANOS variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side, as well as an intake manifold switching in two stages.

Thanks to these highlights in technology, newly set up engine management, and a wide range of improvements serving to minimise fuel consumption, the eight-cylinder power units offer not only a smooth and immediate response to the gas pedal as well as a muscular torque curve from the ground up, but also a surprisingly high standard of all-round economy and low emissions for engines of this size and with this kind of power. And it almost goes without saying that both of these V8 power units, like all six-cylinder versions of the BMW 5 Series, fulfil the Euro 4 emission standard in every respect. In the BMW 550i the latest version of BMW’s 4.8-litre eight-cylinder develops maximum output of 270 kW/367 hp. Peak torque, in turn, is a mighty 490 Newton-metres or 361 lb-ft. On the road, this offers performance raising both the Saloon and the Touring to the level of an outstanding sports car: Acceleration to 100 km/h in the BMW 550i Saloon comes in 5.2, acceleration to 100 km/h in the BMW 550i Touring in 5.3 seconds. Top speed of both models, in turn, is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

However, it is not only the dynamic performance, but also the all-round economic efficiency of these eight-cylinders that sets a truly unique standard: Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 10.9 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 25.9 mpg Imp) in the Saloon and 11.2 litres/100 kilometres (25.2 mpg Imp) in the Touring. And in conjunction with BMW’s new six-speed automatic transmission, fuel consumption of the BMW 550i is an even more economical 10.3 litres (27.4 mpg Imp) in the Saloon and 10.7 litres (26.4 mpg Imp) in the Touring.

The 4.0-litre eight-cylinder in the BMW 540i Saloon offers equally outstanding power and performance, developing maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp and peak torque of 390 Newton-metres or 287 lb-ft. On the road, this accelerates the BMW 540i to 100 km/h in a mere 6.1 seconds and gives the car a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) cut off by the electronic limiter.

The 4.0-litre eight-cylinder also benefits from modified engine management and a wide range of improvements for reducing fuel consumption, setting a new standard for efficiency in this class of power and performance. Average fuel consumption in the EU cycle is down to just 10.5 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 26.9 mpg Imp) in the new BMW 540i – and the automatic transmission model is even more fuel-efficient, making do with just 9.7 litres/100 kilometres (29.1 mpg Imp) on average. In comparison with the former model, this means a reduction in fuel consumption by up to 7 per cent.

High Precision Injection for a significant enhancement of fuel economy.

The wide range of straight-six power units available in the BMW 5 Series offers the customer a choice of no less than three stages of power and performance. And the most significant feature shared by these three outstanding engines is second-generation direct gasoline injection. Contrary to first-generation direct injection BMW intentionally never used on account of its inherent disadvantages, High Precision Injection allows fuel-efficient lean burn operation of the engine through a broad load range and also at higher engine speeds. This is made possible by innovative injectors positioned between the valves and injecting fuel into an area directly around the spark plug.

This improvement in technology achieved by BMW’s engine develop­ment specialists despite confined space within the combustion cham­ber sets the foundation for the new jet-guided combustion process ensuring particularly precise fuel injection without the loss of fuel encountered in the conventional process due to fuel mist wasted on the walls of the cylinder.

The new piezo-injectors deliver fuel into the cylinder at a pressure of up to 200 bar, thus ensuring a particularly refined and precise fuel/air mixing process. The amount of fuel injected is geared precisely to current power requirements, including optimised pre- and post-injection. Through this innovation, BMW’s engineers are not only enhancing the all-round efficiency of the engine, but also its smooth and immediate response at all times.

Direct fuel injection combined with lean burn operation gives the new six-cylinder power units in the BMW 5 Series truly outstanding efficiency and all-round economy. Also referred to as stratified cylinder charging, lean burn fuel injection serves to develop superior engine power and performance on less fuel. The main principle in the lean burn mode is that different layers of the fuel/air mixture build up within the combustion chamber. A layer of fuel/ air mixture sufficiently rich and therefore ignitable is formed only in the direct vicinity of the spark plug. Once this layer of fuel and air has ignited, the leaner layers at a greater distance from the spark plug will also start to burn.

This innovative technology reduces fuel consumption in the EU test cycle by approximately 10 per cent versus the former engine with fully variable valve drive, which as such was already widely lauded for its very high standard of efficiency. And since High Precision Injection allows efficient lean burn operation of the engine also at higher loads, the result in practice is a considerable enhancement of fuel economy.

Three straight-six power units with direct gasoline injection.

The range of engines in the new BMW 5 Series comprises no less than three new straight-six power units featuring BMW’s new direct gasoline injection. Two of these engines come with displacement of 3.0 litres, the third is a 2.5-litre.

In the BMW 530i the 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine develops a dynamic 200 kW/272 hp, that is 10 kW/14 hp more than its predecessor with conventional fuel supply. Peak torque, in turn, is 320 Newton-metres or 236 lb-ft.

This kind of power accelerates the Saloon to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and enables the BMW 530i Touring to reach the same mark in almost the same, equally dynamic 6.5 seconds. Top speed on both models is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

At 7.7 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 36.7 mpg Imp) in the Saloon version of the BMW 530i and at 7.9 litres/100 kilometres (35.8 mpg Imp) in the Touring, fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is approximately 12 per cent more economical than on the former models. And indeed, the automatic transmission versions now making do with just 7.5 litres/37.7 mpg Imp (Saloon) and, respectively, 7.7 litres/36.7 mpg Imp (Touring) are even more economical and fuel-efficient. Within the engine compartment of the BMW 525i, the 3.0-litre straight-six develops maximum output of 160 kW/218 hp and peak torque of 270 Newton-metres or 199 lb-ft. Powered by this version of BMW’s new direct injection engine, the Saloon accelerates to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 248 km/h or 154 mph. The BMW 525i Touring, in turn, sprints to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of 243 km/h or 151 mph. Average fuel consumption under the EU standard, finally, is 7.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 38.2 mpg Imp) in the BMW 525i Saloon and, respectively, 7.7 litres/100 kilometres (36.7 mpg Imp) in the BMW 525i Touring.

As the third six-cylinder featuring High Precision Injection, the 2.5-litre in the BMW 523i develops maximum output of 140 kW/190 hp and peak torque of 235 Newton-metres/173lb-ft. Again, this boosts the power and torque of this engine by 10 kw/14 hp and, respectively, 5 Newton-metres/3.7 lb-ft over the output and torque of the previous model.

Benefiting from this extra power, the BMW 523i Saloon accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds, as opposed to 8.5 seconds on the former model. Top speed, in turn, is 237 km/h or 147 mph. The new BMW 523i Touring accelerates to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 230 km/h or 143 mph.

Average fuel consumption in the EU cycle is approximately 12 per cent lower than on the former models, amounting to 7.3 litres/100 kilometres (38.7 mpg Imp) in the BMW 523i Saloon and 7.7 litres(36.7 mpg Imp) in the BMW 523i Touring.

Diesel engines sporting and dynamic all round.

The diesel-powered BMW 535d, BMW 530d and BMW 525d combine outstanding muscle with supreme efficiency. Apart from their 3.0 litres engine capacity, these straight-six power units also benefit from turbocharging and third-generation common-rail fuel injection.

The outstanding fortes of BMW’s new six-cylinder diesels, resulting from these innovative technologies, are impressive power and exemplary running smoothness at all times, all three engine variants offering an ideal balance of optimised performance and enhanced economy based on BMW’s Efficient Dynamics.

The main differences between the various engines lie in their power and performance characteristics: While the power unit featured in the new BMW 525d offers an unusually muscular but at the same time particularly economic entry into the range of six-cylinder diesels, the Variable Twin Turbo in the new BMW 535d is further enhancing its leadership as the world’s most sporting and dynamic diesel.

Each of these new diesel engines comes with an all-aluminium crankcase serving to reduce engine weight by a significant margin. The power unit in the new BMW 535d, for example, is approximately 20 kg or 44 lb lighter than its predecessor. This reduction in weight benefits not only the car’s fuel economy, but also the high standard of all-round agility significantly improved once again by the reduction of weight on the front axle.

BMW’s new diesel engines feature the latest generation of common-rail fuel injection with piezo injectors guaranteeing even more precise and, accordingly, efficient fuel injection with a positive influence on both fuel economy and the development of engine power. Emission management has also been improved to a new standard, a particulates filter of the latest generation and an oxidation catalyst both being integrated in one joint housing.

Positioned directly next to the engine, the exhaust management unit reaches its operating temperature immediately after the engine has fired, thus providing its full effect at a particularly early point in time. The particulates filter does not require any service or maintenance and regenerates itself through the combustion of diesel particles. The filter function is performed consistently at all engine speeds and under all loads, without the slightest influence on engine power and fuel consumption.

Variable Twin Turbo technology for unique driving dynamics.

The new version of the 3.0-litre six-cylinder featuring Variable Twin Turbo (VTT) technology in the BMW 535d is a thrilling example of Efficient Dynamics of the highest calibre. The most sporting diesel in its class the world over now develops maximum output up by 10 kW/14 hp to 210 kW/286 hp and peak torque of 580 Newton-metres/427 lb-ft, likewise an improvement by 20 Nm or almost 15 lb-ft. At the same time the engine’s DIN weight has been reduced to 194 kg or 428 lb, making BMW’s new high-performance diesel approximately 50 kg or 110 lb lighter than a comparable powerful eight cylinder – certainly the ideal foundation for new performance of the highest calibre.

Among other features, the car’s even faster and more dynamic acceleration is a clear expression of this enhanced agility: The BMW 535d accelerates to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds (Touring: 6.5 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph (limited electronically). Economy and fuel efficiency also reach new standards, average fuel consumption of the new BMW 535d in the EU test cycle amounting to just 6.8 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 41.5 mpg Imp) in the Saloon and 7.0 litres (40.3 mpg Imp) in the Touring, which means a reduction of fuel consumption by approximately 15 per cent versus the previous model.

Optimised turbocharger technology.

The outstanding efficiency offered by these power units is attribut­able in particular to optimised Variable Twin Turbo technology: Applying the VTT principle, a small turbocharger first cuts in at low engine speeds. Thanks to its low inertia, this small turbocharger develops its power boost spontaneously and without the slightest delay in response to even the smallest movements of the gas pedal. Then, with engine speed increasing, the second, larger turbocharger cuts in, helping to give the engine its maximum torque of 580 Newton-metres or 427 lb-ft at just 1,750 rpm. Interaction of the two turbochargers is masterminded by a particularly efficient and intelligent electronic engine “brain”.

Optimised: 3.0-litre diesel with variable turbine geometry.

The straight-six diesel in the new BMW 530d developing maximum output now increased to 173 kW/235 hp also features the latest generation of common-rail fuel injection and an all-aluminium crankcase. On this version of the 3.0-litre a turbocharger system with variable turbine geometry (VTG) ensures muscular and at the same time harmonious power and performance tailored to all driving conditions and requirements.

Here again, maximum torque – in this case 500 Newton-metres or 369 lb-ft – comes at just 1,750 rpm, accelerating the Saloon to 100 km/h in 6.8 and the Touring in 6.9 seconds. Top speed of the new BMW 530d, in turn, is 250 km/h (155 mph) in the Saloon and 245 km/h (145 mph) in the Touring. And average fuel consumption under the EU standard of 6.4 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 44.1 mpg Imp) in the Saloon and, respectively, 6.6 litres (42.8 mpg Imp) in the Touring underlines the particular efficiency of this engine variant. Indeed, compared with the former models, fuel consumption is down by approximately 12 per cent, depending on the transmission chosen.

The power unit of the new BMW 525d offers all the muscle and performance of a modern diesel with even greater all-round economy: The third version of BMW’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder featuring common rail fuel injection, an all-aluminium crankcase and a VTG turbocharger develops maximum output of 145 kW/197 hp and peak torque of 400 Newton-metres/295 lb-ft. This accelerates the BMW 525d Saloon to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds, and makes the BMW 525d Touring almost just as fast at 7.8 seconds.
Top speed, in turn, is 237 km/h or 147 mph in the Saloon and 232 km/h or 144 mph in the Touring. Average fuel consumption under the EU standard, finally, is 6.2 litres/100 km (equal to 45.6 mpg Imp) in the BMW 525d Saloon and, respectively, 6.4 litres (44.1 mpg Imp) in the BMW 525d Touring, equalling a reduction in fuel consumption over the former models, depending on the transmission, by up to 17 per cent.

At its entry level, the new BMW 5 Series is again available with BMW’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel featuring common-rail fuel injection and VTG turbocharger technology for particularly temperamental power and supreme economy. Offering maximum output of 120 kW/163 hp and peak torque of 340 Nm/251 lb-ft, the power unit in the BMW 520d ensures sporting performance on the road, with the Saloon accelerating to 100 km/h in just 8.6, the Touring in 8.9 seconds. Top speed is 223 km/h or 138 mph in the Saloon and, respectively, 218 km/h or 135 mph in the Touring. And despite the dynamic character also borne out by this version of the new BMW 5 Series, average fuel consumption of the BMW 520d in the EU cycle is just 5.9 litres (6.1 litres) for 100 kilometres, equal to 47.9 and, respectively, 46.3 mpg Imp.

The diesel engines in the BMW 5 Series offer a thrilling combination of sporting dynamics and supreme all-round economy. Developing these particularly refined, high-torque and light diesels, BMW is indeed making a significant contribution to the popularity of this engine concept.

With the demands made of the new straight-six diesel engines in the BMW 5 Series increasing all the time, these new power units offer an admirable all-round solution catering for all needs and requirements. Once again, therefore, the BMW Group, with these new engines, is confirming its leadership in engine and drivetrain technology.

New automatic transmission: even more dynamic, even more fuel-efficient.

As an option and an alternative to the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, all new versions of the BMW 5 Series are available with six-speed automatic transmission meeting the greatest demands in terms of all-round comfort and at the same time translating the dynamic power of the engines into Sheer Driving Pleasure BMW style.

The BMW 535d even comes as standard with this automatic transmission where a hydraulic system enhanced to an even higher level of technology, an innovative torque converter and significantly more efficient control and management software allow not only an even more direct and immediate response to every movement of the gas pedal, but also an extremely quick gearshift. Indeed, reaction times in the new BMW 5 Series compared with the former automatic transmissions are down by approximately 40 per cent, with the time actually required for shifting gears being almost halved.

Shifting back more than one gear is equally quick and efficient thanks to the direct gear finding function. So whenever the driver kicks down the accelerator, expressing his wish for supreme power and performance, the transmission will shift down immediately by up to four gears.

In all, the BMW 5 Series featuring automatic transmission now takes less than a second to switch over from comfortable cruising to a fast and dynamic sprint, offering the driver the thrill of spontaneous, intuitive motoring plus, of course, a very sporting feeling at the wheel ensured by BMW’s new six speed automatic transmission.

The dynamic driving characteristics ensured by the new automatic transmission are also attributable to the direct link between the transmission and the engine itself. This is made possible by new torque converter technology with an integrated torsion damper avoiding any unnecessary slip and, accordingly, loss of power. With the converter clutch being locked immediately after setting off, the driver receives the same feeling and impression as in a car with a manual gearbox. And the final point is that the car’s all-round economy also benefits from the fortes of BMW’s new automatic transmission.

New electronic gear selector lever.

The automatic transmission is masterminded by an electronic gear selector lever offering a perfect symbiosis of straightforward elegance, supreme ergonomic design, and new function. The gearshift pattern is in the usual arrangement, with the new selector lever returning to its starting point after operation. Transmission control is no longer mechanical, but rather uses electrical signals.

To shift to the Parking position, all the driver has to do is press the “P” button at the top of the selector lever. To activate the Manual mode, in turn, he merely has to push the selector lever to the left and is then able to shift gears manually in sequence. A display in the switch itself and a further indicator in the instrument cluster inform the driver of the gear currently in mesh.

This innovative, trendsetting gear selector lever allows a short and ergonomic gearshift process at all times. And a further advantage over and above the comfortable gearshift is the availability of adequate space on the centre console for additional storage boxes.

Automatic Sports Transmission: even more dynamic performance and gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

As an additional alternative to the manual gearbox, the six-speed Automatic Sports Transmission is now making its debut in the BMW 550i, BMW 530i, BMW 535d, and BMW 530d.

Over and above the driving comfort characteristic of the new generation of automatic transmissions, this highly innovative Auto­matic Sports Transmission allows an even more sporting gearshift in the manual mode. In this case the driver is able to choose the appropriate gear in a sequential process either by way of the gear selector lever exclusive to this specific transmission or by means of gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

The gear selector lever featured with Automatic Sports Transmission also conveys its signals through an electric circuit, the manual gear­shift mode being activated by the driver moving the selector lever to the left.
The alternative option also available in this case, however, is to shift gears by way of paddles on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to change gears very spontaneously at all times in the Manual mode without even taking his hands off the steering wheel. So simply pressing one of the two paddles, the driver is able to shift up and down as he requires.

If the driver also pushes the Sports Button in the gear selector lever, he will benefit in addition from an incomparably dynamic experience of shifting gears, his commands activated by the paddles being translated into actual driving action even more spontaneously. A further point is that the Sports Button also changes the progressive rate of the gas pedal, providing optimum conditions for dynamic acceleration.

Over and above the exceptionally short gearshift times, the driver receives clear feedback every time he shifts gears, making it easier for him to choose the right gear with the optimum pick-up speed.

Spontaneous movement of the needle in the rev counter, finally, clearly proves and confirms the driver’s particularly temperamental and dynamic style of motoring.

All-aluminium suspension for enhanced agility, safety and comfort.

Superior driving behaviour is one of the characteristic fortes of the BMW 5 Series. And indeed, high performance power units, rear-wheel drive, excellent axle load distribution and modern all-aluminium suspension ensure supreme agility, safety and comfort in every situation. The principle of functional lightweight technology applied by BMW makes the chassis and suspension extremely strong and stable, while at the same time minimising unsprung masses. With the exception of a small number of components subject to particularly high loads and strain such as the track rods, wheel bearings or pivot joints, the entire spring strut tiebar front axle is made of aluminium. The Integral-IV rear axle is also made almost completely of aluminium, the four track control arms guiding the rear axle not mounted directly on the body of the car, but rather elastically on an axle subframe in order to optimise the car’s directional stability and motoring comfort.

Unique: Active Steering for enhanced comfort at all speeds.

Optionally available Active Steering absolutely unique in the BMW 5 Series segment ensures further enhancement of steering comfort. While Servotronic featured as standard controls the steering force required, Active Steering varies the steering angle as a function of road speed, the same movement of the steering wheel moving the front wheels to a greater extent at low speeds than at high speeds. This allows the driver to manoeuvre the car with less effort and fewer turns of the steering wheel when parking and in similar situations, while at high speeds it is easier to keep the car precisely on track.

This improvement is provided by an additional transmission in the steering train serving to convey movements of the steering wheel to the front wheels of the car: The steering angle chosen by the driver is modified by means of an electric motor, the actual position of the front wheels varying as a function of road speed and the lateral acceleration of the car taken into account by yaw rate control.

Focusing also the yaw rate, Active Steering stabilises the car also in brake manoeuvres on varying surfaces with a modal split of the frictional coefficient on the various wheels and axles. Applying a controlled and discreet counter-steering effect, the system prevents the car from swerving out of control on surfaces with a varying frictional coefficient.

Shorter stopping distances, faster brake response.

Operation of the high-performance swing-calliper brakes with their inner-vented brake discs is now controlled electrohydraulically on the BMW 5 Series. During application of the brakes, sensors immediately determine the driver’s wishes and intentions converted by way of an appropriate software algorithm into the pressure required by a control unit, this precise pressure then being transmitted hydraulically to the brakes on the individual wheels.

This means that brake pressure is controlled individually on all four wheels. Should then, in this situation, the electronic control system for the electrohydraulic brakes notice that the driver wishes to apply the brakes all-out, the system will build up brake pressure extremely quickly and efficiently.
This makes the entire process of applying the brakes more comfortable and enhances driving safety thanks to even shorter stopping distances.

The BMW 5 Series comes as standard with an ongoing brake wear indicator providing information at all times on the condition of the brake pads.
Applying the data determined by the sensors, the system calculates the mileage still remaining until the brake pads have to be renewed, giving the driver appropriate information in the Cockpit Display. This facilitates preventive action of the brakes for optimum brake power at all times and helps to avoid unnecessary maintenance.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control with new functions.

Additional, innovative functions now incorporated in BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) serve to make the brake system even more effective.
The primary function of DSC stability control is to apply the brakes individually on the various wheels or intervene in engine management in order to counteract over- or under-steer in bends.

The system also comprises ABS brake control and Automatic Stability Control (ASC) preventing the drive wheels from spinning on lose or slippery ground, a Brake Assistant and CBC Cornering Brake Control.

DSC in the new BMW 5 Series efficiently sets off even the slightest decrease in brake power at extremely high temperatures (Fading Compensation).
A further point is that regular Dry Braking ensures optimum brake power in the wet, while pre-loading of the brake pads enhances brake standby in all situations where, with the driver suddenly letting go of the gas pedal, full application of the brakes (for example in an emergency) is to be expected.

On cars fitted with Active Cruise Control complete with Stop & Go, radar sensors detect in advance that the driver may be required to apply the brakes hard. In this case the brake system is pre-condi­ ioned by reducing the response thresholds in the hydraulic Brake Assistant and pressure is built up immediately in the system, moving the brake pads towards the discs without generating any noticeable deceleration.

Then, in the event of an emergency braking manoeuvre, these pre­cautions offer the driver maximum stopping power much more quickly and, therefore, efficiently, significantly reducing the stopping distance and providing a valuable safety reserve.

Last but certainly not least, a Start-Off Assistant rounds off the wide range of innovations. As a sub function of DSC, DTC Dynamic Traction Control available at the touch of a button serves to raise the DSC response thresholds, allowing the car to set off smoothly, for example, in deep snow with the wheels intentionally spinning slightly. A further advantage of the DTC mode is that it allows even faster lateral acceleration all the way to a controlled power slide in bends.
And whenever he wishes, the driver is also able to completely deactivate DSC in an appropriate situation.

Cruise control complete with a brake application function.

As an option, the BMW 5 Series is available with innovative cruise control complete with a brake function. This system serves to maintain a specific speed pre-selected by the driver – at least 30 km/h or 20 mph – regardless of the route the driver is taking and its specific profile.

Depending on current requirements, this sophisticated cruise control either increases drive power or reduces the speed of the car fully automatically.
Unlike conventional cruise control, the new system is able to control the speed of the car not only through the drive forces generated by the engine and by shifting down on a car with automatic transmission, but also by applying the brakes.
In practice, this keeps the car at a steady, reliable speed even when driving down long hills or when towing a trailer.

A further benefit of this new system is its ability to reduce the speed of the car below the level set in bends whenever required under specific dynamic conditions. To provide this function the system is networked with DSC Dynamic Stability Control, with sensors providing data on the lateral acceleration and the steering angle of the car. This serves to reduce road speed to a comfortable level of lateral acceleration. Then, at the end of the curve, the BMW 5 Series will once again accelerate to the speed pre-selected by the driver.

The driver controls and operates the system via a lever on the steering column. Pulling or pressing the lever, he is able to enter the current speed of the car as his desired speed level and then change this speed as often as he wishes.
To deactivate the system, the driver again either uses the control lever or simply presses down the brake pedal. Then, pressing the Resume button, he is able to re-activate cruise control at the speed previously set.

Yet a further option for the driver is to accelerate in the Manual Gas mode by operating the control lever on the steering column, increasing the speed of the car in two dynamic stages and in an absolutely linear process, without being required to put his foot on the accelerator.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go offers the driver even greater conven­ience and effortless motoring. Featured for the first time as an option in the new BMW 5 Series – on models with automatic transmission – this innova­tive system offers an additional, automatic distance hold function enabling the driver to cruise along smoothly on the motorway or country roads, keeping an appropriate, constant distance from the vehicle ahead also in very slow, stop-and-go traffic. In practice, this means a significant enhance­ment of motoring comfort particularly under slow and sluggish traffic con­di­tions.

Using this very helpful system, the driver is able to choose among four dis­tance settings. Once the distance from the vehicle ahead, as selected by the driver, is no longer maintained, the system smoothly adjusts the speed of the car to actual traffic conditions. Then, as soon as the lane in front of the driver is free again, Active Cruise Control returns the car to the speed ori­gin­ally selected by the driver. Again, this helps to ensure stress-free cruising in the new BMW 5 Series in particularly comfortable style.

Active Cruise Control is even able to automatically reduce road speed down to a standstill as a function of traffic conditions, holding it in position as long as required.

The maximum deceleration provided by Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go is 4 metres/sec2. Should the driver be required to intervene for even more stopping power, for example because the vehicle ahead is slowing down in an extremely hard braking manoeuvre, he will be informed accordingly by visual and acoustic signals.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go uses the latest generation of radar sensors with an enlarged field of vision and stands out in par­ticular through its broad coverage of the area directly in front of the car. To provide this coverage, it combines a long-distance sensor with a range of up to 150 metres (almost 500 feet) with short-distance sensors able to detect vehicles ahead at a distance of up to 20 metres (66 feet). The radar sensors are integrated smoothly and incon­spic­uously in the front end of the car, emerging perfectly with its design.

In stop-and-go traffic, the system supports the driver by consistently maintaining an appropriate distance to the vehicle ahead, relieving the driver from the need to regularly apply the brakes in, say, slow and sluggish traffic. The driver nevertheless retains his responsibility and remains in control at all times, being required to briefly press down the gas pedal or push the Resume button to re-accelerate the car and set off again after stopping for more than three seconds. Even when the system is active, the driver is able to control his speed at any time simply by pressing down the gas pedal or applying the brakes.
Pressing down the brake pedal while driving, in turn, he is able to deactivate the system. And pressing the toggle switch used for determining the distance from the vehicle ahead somewhat longer, he is also able to switch over from cruise control with a brake function to Active Cruise Control complete with Stop & Go and vice versa.

Then, with the flow of traffic allowing, the system starts to accelerate and move the car again, without requiring any action on the part of the driver.
Only when the car comes to a standstill for more than 3 sec­onds is the driver required to press down the accelerator slightly in order to deactivate the system.

Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go uses the latest generation of radar sensors with an extra-large field of vision and excels in partic­ular through its uniquely fast and precise detection of objects. In stop-and-go traffic the system makes things much easier for the driver by maintaining the same, constant distance from the vehicle ahead even at very low speeds, once the driver has pressed the ac­celerator down again after an interim stop.

Last but not least, the driver is able to influence Active Cruise Control himself at any time, even when the system is active, simply by press­ing down the accelerator or brake pedal. And once the driver puts his foot on the brake pedal, the system is automatically deactivated.

Built-in safety: runflat tyres and Tyre Defect Indicator.

The BMW 5 Series comes as standard on 16-inch light-alloy wheels, the BMW 550i, BMW 540i, BMW 530i, BMW 535d and BMW 530d all boast 17-inch light-alloy rims as standard equipment.

A wide range of attractive rims in 17- and 18-inch format is furthermore available as an option, all these optional wheels coming on runflat tyres enabling the driver to continue to the next workshop without problems even on a completely flat tyre. In addition, the Tyre Defect Indicator permanently monitors tyre pressure and warns the driver as soon as the actual pressure in a tyre drops more than 30 per cent below the prescribed level, setting off an optical signal in the instrument cluster for this purpose.

Even more precise: BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system in the BMW 5 Series.

Available as an alternative to standard rear-wheel drive, intelligent BMW xDrive offers a very special experience in terms of enhanced traction: This permanent, variable power distribution gives the BMW 530xd, BMW 530xi and BMW 525xi truly superior driving characteristics not only on difficult terrain. BMW xDrive spreads out engine power via an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch variably on all four wheels, thus also enhancing the dynamic driving qualities of both the Saloon and Touring. On a hard road surface and under normal driving conditions, power distribution is 60 per cent to the rear and 40 per cent to the front wheels.

In the new BMW 5 Series, BMW xDrive ensures an even more precise and spontaneous response to changing driving conditions, networking the DSC and xDrive control units in an innovative, even more sophisticated process than before. The result is smooth distribution of engine power to the four wheels for maximum traction and stability even in particularly dynamic bends and fast steering or acceleration manoeuvres.

Always remaining precisely on course: Lane Change Warning.

To support the driver in remaining alert at all times, the new BMW 5 Series is available as an option with a newly developed and absolutely unique assistance system helping to avoid an unwanted or unintentional lane change.

Referred to as Lane Change Warning, this system identifies any deviations from the car’s ideal course and gives the driver discreet but tangible feedback at exactly the right point for safe steering – on the steering wheel.

The Lane Change Warning system is made up of a camera fitted near the interior mirror on the windscreen, a control unit serving to compare data and a signal unit generating discreet but unmistakable vibration on the steering wheel. Whenever the driver expresses his intention to change lanes or direction by operating the direction indicator, the Lane Change Warning function is automatically deactivated and there is no warning signal.

The Lane Change Warning camera monitors the road markings at least on one side of the car and their position relative to the vehicle itself. This data is then evaluated by the control unit comparing the actual direction of the car with the road markings and thus distinguishing between insignificant and potentially dangerous deviations.

The system is able to quite literally “look ahead”, enabling the driver to change the position of the steering smoothly and in good time whenever necessary. Equipped with CMOS technology, the camera offers a particularly high level of resolution and imaging accuracy, with the ability to look ahead approximately 50 metres or 165 feet and also operate at night as soon as the driver switches on the headlights.

Yet a further function of Lane Change Warning is its speed-related control, the system reducing its tolerance level at higher speeds. This automatically raises the minimum distance from the road line required to activate the system.

Lane Change Warning is conceived for long-distance motoring and may be activated as of a speed of 70 km/h or 50 mph. The vibration signal generated by the system is cancelled out automatically as soon as the driver returns the steering wheel to the correct direction.

Supporting the driver in poor visibility.

In combination with the optional xenon headlights, the new BMW 5 Series comes with a daytime lights function using the corona rings in the dual round headlights. Yet a further option also available in the new BMW 5 Series is the Adaptive Headlight function illuminating the road ahead smoothly, consistently and in exactly the right direction also in bends. In this case the headlights swivel to the side as a function of the steering position, the yaw rate of the car and its road speed.

Another important new function is the Bending Lights changing the direction of the headlight beam according to the steering position at speeds of less than 40 km/h or 25 mph and thus illuminating the road ahead when taking a bend in the same way as the Adaptive Headlights, but in this case at an even larger angle.

Sensors registering unfavourable visibility in the dark or in rainy weather also help to enhance driving comfort and safety on the road: Conducting an optical measurement, the rain sensor automatically determines oncoming precipitation and its severity. Once activated, the rain sensor automatically switches on the windscreen wipers and controls their frequency as a function of precipitation intensity. Integrated, automatic operation of the headlights likewise makes motoring even safer and more convenient under constantly changing conditions: In this case the car’s electronic “brain” uses two sensors in the windscreen to monitor light conditions and automatically switch on the low beam headlights as soon as necessary, for example when driving through a tunnel or at dusk, with light becoming dimmer.

As an option, the new BMW 5 Series is the only car in its segment available with a High-Beam Assistant. This system automatically switches off the high-beam headlights as soon as it detects oncoming traffic, the distance to a vehicle driving ahead drops below a certain level, or the route the car is taking – for example in a built-up area – is adequately lit. The opposite process of switching back from the low to the high beams is also automatic.

The High-Beam Assistant is masterminded by a camera integrated in the interior mirror serving to monitor ambient brightness and traffic conditions. This function is activated automatically as soon as the driver switches on the high beams and may be deactivated via the lever on the steering column, giving the driver the opportunity, as before, to control the high and low beams manually. The big advantage of automatic control, of course, is that the
High-Beam Assistant ensures extra safety on the road.

BMW Night Vision available as an option provides an even higher standard of safety when driving at night. This technology again quite unique in the BMW 5 Series segment incorporates a thermal imaging camera detecting people, animals and objects on and next to the road at a distance of up to 300 metres or almost 1,000 feet and presenting a high-contrast image on the Control Display also used by the navigation system. This draws the driver’s attention to possible hazards he would not be able to detect with the naked eye.

For a perfect sound experience: top-range audio systems.

High-quality, sophisticated audio systems and telematics functions enhance the grand touring comfort and driving pleasure offered by the new BMW 5 Series to an even higher level of perfection. Exceptional sound quality is guaranteed above all by the newly developed BMW Individual High End Audio System based on trendsetting DIRAC (Dual Input Room Acoustics Calculator) signal processing: The digital nine-channel amplifier featuring Digital Signal Processing (DSP) develops maximum output of 825 watts. Supplemented by speed-related volume control and speed-related equalising, as well as a total of 16 loudspeakers, the system sets the standard in sound reproduction, brilliant sound quality guaranteeing supreme music pleasure on all seats in the new BMW 5 Series.

Featured as standard, the AUX-In connector provides additional options for linking up external audio sources. A further option is the USB interface integrating external MP3 players into the car with particular ease and convenience. All versions of the Apple iPod may therefore be fully integrated into the BMW 5 Series’ audio system with their functions being masterminded either by iDrive or by the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel.

The multi-media programme is rounded off by the mobile BMW Online internet portal as well as the BMW Assist telematics service. In addition, the new BMW 5 Series is available with BMW TeleServices enabling the BMW Group to offer customers a universal range of service amenities, provided the car is fitted with a telephone and navigation system.

Using the BMW Teleservice Call function, for example, the car automatically transmits all information required for an appointment at the workshop to the driver’s BMW Service Partner whenever necessary.

Ideal for new generations of mobile phones.

Prepared for installation of a mobile phone complete with a Bluetooth interface, the electronic system in the BMW 5 Series Saloon and 5 Series Touring may be networked easily and conveniently with numerous bluetooth mobile phones available in the market. This, in turn, allows convenient and safe use of a mobile phone in the car coordinated with the on-board system, a snap-in adapter connecting the mobile phone with the car’s aerial and charging it at the same time.

Navigation system Professional with full-word voice entry.

As a particular highlight in motoring comfort, the BMW 5 Series Saloon and the 5 Series Touring are available as an option with a new generation of navigation systems. New menu guidance and optimised graphic presentation in the Control Display enhance both the good looks and the functional benefits of the systems masterminded by BMW iDrive.

In addition to arrow symbols guiding the user to his destination, the Business navigation system now also incorporates a map for even more detailed and precise orientation.

Featuring an even larger 8.8-inch Control Display, the navigation system Professional may be enhanced as an option by a new particularly reliable voice entry function available exclusively on BMW cars. This enables the user to enter his destination in a full-word voice message, providing convenient and time-saving process in finding some 80,000 towns and cities throughout Germany.

Convenient, generous, practical: the interior.

Comfortable seats and generous space within the interior make both the Saloon and Touring version of the BMW 5 Series ideal for grand touring in genuine style. Covering even long distances is therefore a very pleasant experience both at the rear and on the front seats. Yet a further contribution to this driving pleasure is made by the electrically operated glass sliding roof in the Saloon and the even larger Panorama glass roof in the BMW 5 Series Touring, both of which are available as an option.

The Panorama roof is made up of two sundim glass panels with an overall area of 0.68 square metres or 7.32 square feet. To provide an optimum flow of air, both glass elements can be raised at the rear, and the front panel may be opened completely, offering the occupants on all seats a truly heavenly view as well as an exactly dosed supply of air.

With its luggage capacity of 520 litres or 18.2 cubic feet (540 litres/18.9 cubic feet without the emergency wheel), the Saloon offers more than generous space in its luggage compartment. The BMW 5 Series Touring, in turn, benefiting from its rear-seat backrest folding down either completely or in split configuration, offers particularly generous capacity of up to 1,650 litres or 57.8 cubic feet, making the car a particularly attractive talent for all kinds of transportation requirements.

As yet a further feature, both versions of the BMW 5 Series are available as the only cars in their segment with a trailer towing hook moving out electrically at the touch of a button. Locked manually in position after moving out, operation and use of the trailer towing unit is particularly convenient.

The BMW 5 Series – setting the standard for 35 years.

Thrillingly powerful and, at the same time, highly efficient power units, appropriate refinement of the car’s expressive design, and a wide range of innovations making the driving experience even more comfortable and safer – these are the features which characterise the new BMW 5 Series.

Thirty-five years after the launch of the first-generation BMW 5 Series, both the Saloon and the Touring are once again top performers in every respect. The BMW 5 Series is conceived in particular for the motorist wishing to enjoy a very special driving experience in everyday traffic. It is a car with unmistakable dynamics in its design and driving behaviour, innovative technology and premium quality. And the sporting elegance of the new BMW 5 Series is convincingly borne out by a uniqu ecombination of style, flair and class all round.

Precisely this is why the BMW 5 Series Saloon has become the epitome of Sheer Driving Pleasure in the business class, and is now extending its leadership to an even higher standard. The new BMW 5 Series Touring, in turn, is the perfect symbiosis of dynamism and variability more than ever before. This sporting five-door offers versatility in a particularly attractive model and is perfectly prepared for all kinds of transportation requirements, whether for professional purposes or in your leisure time, taking care of all these demands with utmost driving pleasure.

Specifications BMW 5 Series Saloon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Body		523i	525i	530i		540i
No of doors/seats l		4/5	4/5	4/5		4/5
Length/width/height (unladen) )	mm	4,841/1,846/1,468	4,841/1,846/1,468	4,841/1,846/1,468		4,841/1,846/1,468
Wheelbase	mm	2,888	2,888	2,888		2,888
Track, front/rear wgsdfg	mm	1,558/1,581	1,558/1,581	1,558/1,581		1,558/1,581
Turning circle	m	11.4	11.4	11.4		11.4
Tank capacity	approx ltr	70	70	70		70
Cooling system incl heating l	ltr	10.0 (10.5)	10.0 (10.5)	10.0 (10.5)		13.8 (14.2)
Engine oil Getriebeöl	ltr	6.5	6.5	6.5		8.0
Trans fluid/final drive	ltr	Lifetime	Lifetime	Lifetime		Lifetime
Weight, unladen, to EU1	kg	1,575 (1,600)	1,585 (1,605)	1,605 (1,615)		1,725 (1,735)
Max load to DIN	kg	560	560	560		560
Max permissible to DIN	kg	2,060 (2,085)	2,070 (2,090)	2,090 (2,100)		2,210 (2,220)
Max axle load, front/rear	kg	980/1,170	980/1,180	980/1,180		1,070/1,230
Max trailer load2
braked (12%)/unbraked	kg	1,600 (1,800)/750	1,800 (2,000)/750	2,000/750		2,000/750
Max roof load/trailer dn load	kg	100/90	100/90	100/90		100/90
Luggage comp cap DIN70020	l	520	520	520		520
Air drag	cd x A	0.27 (0.26) x 2.26	0.27 (0.26) x 2.26	0.27 (0.26) x 2.26		0.28 (0.27) x 2.26
Power Unit
Config/No of cyls/valves Zylinder/Ventile		Inline/6/4	Inline/6/4	Inline/6/4		V90/8/4
Fuel supply		MSD80	MSD80	MSD80		ME9.2.3.
Capacity, effective	cc	2,497	2,996	2,996		4,000
Stroke/bore	mm	78.8/82.0	88.0/85.0	88.0/85.0		84.1/87.0
Compression ratio	: 1	12.0	12.0	12.0		10.5
Fuel		RON 91–983	RON 91–983	RON 91–983		RON91–983
Max output	kW/hp	140/190	160/218	200/272		225/306
at	rpm	6,300	6,100	6,700		6,300
Max torque	Nm/lb-ft	235/173	270/199	320/236		390/287
at	rpm	3,500	2,400–4,200	2,750–3,000		3,500
Electrical System
Battery/installation	Ah/–	80/luggage comp	80/luggage comp	80/luggage comp		90/luggage comp
Alternator	A/W	155/2,170	155/2,170	155/2,170		180/2,520
Chassis and Suspension
Suspension, front		Double-joint tiebar spring strut axle, aluminium; compensation of lateral forces, anti-dive
Suspension, rear		Integral-IV multi-arm axle, aluminium, multi-dimensional suspension with anti-squat and anti-dive
Brakes, front		Single-piston swing-calliper disc brakes
Diameter	mm	324 x 30, vented	324 x 30, vented	348 x 30, vented			348 x 30, vented
Brakes, rear		Single-piston swing-calliper disc brakes
Diameter	mm	320 x 20, vented	320 x 20, vented		345 x 24, vented	345 x 24, vented
Driving stability systems		ABS, CBC, ASC, DSC, DTC, DBC; optional: Dynamic Drive
Steering		Rack-and-pinion Servotronic steering; option: Active Steering
Overall steering ratio	: 1	13.7	13.7	13.7		13,7
Gearbox		6-speed manual (6-speed automatic with Steptronic)
Gear ratios I	: 1	4.323 (4.171)	4.323 (4.171)	4.350 (4.171)		4.055 (4.171)
II	: 1	2.456 (2.340)	2.456 (2.340)	2.496 (2.340)		2.396 (2.340)
III	: 1	1.659 (1.521)	1.659 (1.521)	1.665 (1.521)		1.582 (1.521)
IV	: 1	1.230 (1.143)	1.230 (1.143)	1.230 (1.143)		1.192 (1.143)
V	: 1	1.000 (0.867)	1.000 (0.867)	1.000 (0.867)		1.0 (0.867)
VI	: 1	0.848 (0.691)	0.848 (0.691) 0,848 (0,691)	0.851 (0.691)		0.872 (0.691)
R	: 1	3.938 (3.403)	3.938 (3.403)	3.926 (3.403)		3.677 (3.403)
Final drive	: 1	3.23 (3.73)	3.15 (3.64)	3.23 (3.64)		3.08 (3.38)
Tyres		225/55 R16 95 V	225/55 R16 95 W	225/50 R17 94 W		225/50 R17 94W
Rims		7J x 16 light-alloy	7 J x 16 light-alloy	7.5J x17 light-alloy		7.5J x 17 light-alloy
Performance
Power-to-weight, DIN	kg/kW	10.7 (10.9)	9.4 (9.6)	7.7		7.3 (7.4)
Output per litre	kW/hp	56.1/76.3	53.4/72.6	66.8/90.8		56.3/76.6
Acceleration 0–100 km/h	sec	8.2 (8.7)	7.1 (7.7)	6.3 (6.5)		6.1 (6.2)
Standing-start km	sec	28.6 (29.2)	27.2 (27.8)	25.9 (26.2)		25.7 (25.8)
80–120 km/h in 4th/5th gear	sec	9.0/– (–)	7.8/– (–)	6.6 (–)		6.2/– (–)
Top speed	km/h	237 (236)	248 (246)	2504		2504
Fuel Consumption in EU Cycle
Urban	ltr/100 km	10.1 (10.3)	10.3 (10.4)	10.9 (10.8)		15.8 (14.4)
Extra urban	ltr/100 km	5.7 (5.9)	5.7 (5.8)	5.8 (5.6)		7.4 (6.9)
Composite	ltr/100 km	7.3 (7.5)	7.4 (7.5)	7.7 (7.5)		10.5 (9.7) /)645675675675675)
CO2	g/km	174 (178)	176 (178)	182 (178)		250 (232)
Miscellaneous
Emission rating		EU4	EU4	EU4		EU4

Figures in brackets apply to models with automatic transmission.

Weight of vehicle in road trim (DIN) plus 75 kg for driver and baggage.
2May be increased under certain conditions.

3Figures for performance and fuel consumption relate to RON 98.
4Electronically limited.