2017 BMW 5-Series makes global debut

The new-gen 2017 BMW 5-Series sedan has officially been revealed. The car will be making its first public appearance at the 2017 Detroit Motor Show. This marks the introduction of the seventh-generation of the 5-Series moniker.

Aesthetically, the new 5-Series appears to be an evolution of its predecessor's design language. Multiple cues have also been borrowed from its elder sibling, the BMW 7-Series. The new 5-er has slightly grown in dimensions. It is 36 mm longer, 6 mm wider, and 2 mm taller than the model it replaces. The new car's dimensions stand at 4935 mm X 1868 mm X 1466 mm (L x W x H). The wheelbase too has been scaled up by 7 mm, as it now measures 2975 mm.

The new 5-Series is built on BMW's Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform, which also underpins the latest-gen 7-Series. Built using light-weight, high-strength materials like aluminium, the CLAR platform has helped the 5-Series to be around 100 kgs lighter than its predecessors.

On the inside, the increased dimensions have resulted in a relatively spacious cabin. The legroom, shoulder room and head room available for rear occupants is claimed to be improved. Features on offer include Head-Up Display (HUD), latest-generation BMW iDrive system with gesture controls and a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, massage function for the rear seats, wireless charging, and Intelligent Voice Assist.

The new 5-Series also hosts various semi-autonomous technologies. These include Lane Change Assistant, Lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection, crossing traffic warning, and an optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) system. The car is equipped with a stereo camera, radar, and ultrasound sensors to monitor the conditions around it.

The seventh-generation BMW 5-Series will be offered with 2 petrol and 2 diesel engine options. Petrol options include a 2.0-litre, 4 cylinder unit that develops 248 BHP and 350 Nm of torque, and a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder mill that generates 335 BHP and 450 Nm of torque. Diesel duties are taken care of by a 2.0-litre engine rated at 188 BHP and a peak torque of 400 Nm and a 3.0-litre six-cylinder unit that churns out 261 BHP and 620 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox.

The 2017 BMW 5-Series will go on sale in European markets in February 2017. Expect it to be launched in India during the next-year itself as the company has already imported the new models for homologation.