BMW unveiled its all new, sixth-generation 5-Series today in Munich, Germany, bringing to an end a lengthy wait to have a first look at the new car, and instantly offering a stern competitor for the recently launched Mercedes-Benz E-Class line.
The new 5 seems to be following along with the new BMW design aesthetic, showing cleaner, simpler body surfacing, and strong, athletic character lines. The automaker also references the often-invoked “coupe-like” roofline.
5-Series will be the recipient of three familiar, and pretty fantastic powerplants. At launch, look for the 550i to rock the same 400 horsepower, bi-turbo V-8 as is found in the X6, the 7-Series, and the 5-Series GT. A 535i will also be available, getting 300 horsepower from BMW’s 3.0-liter turbo six, and some (unspecified) time in the future will see a 528i join the range with the naturally aspirated 3.0-liter six.
All of the new 5-Series models will be available with a buyer’s choice of either a six-speed manual transmission, or the company’s new eight-speed autobox. The automatic is said to offer significant gains in fuel economy compared with the outgoing six-speed affair. We’re still likely to want to option the old-school cog-swapper though—an early guess.
Based on our first driving impressions of the 5GT, we have reason to believe that the new 5er will be a sweet drive, as well. Stay tuned for our first driving report of the car in the near future. Until then, you’ll find a full gallery of images above, and BMW’s lengthy full press release below.