padraic deane
The new BMW 5 Series range will go on sale here in October, with an entry-level 520i priced from €69,850.
BMW boasts that this new eighth generation 5 Series fuses advanced technology with elegant and sporting saloon style, generous space and exceptional refinement
Described by BMW as more dynamic than ever, and featuring a wealth of digital innovations and an all-electric drive for the first time. It adds that the eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series Saloon continues to stand for advanced technology combined with sporty, elegant design and hallmark driving pleasure.
The new generation of the world's most successful business saloon also intensifies its commitment to sustainability, significantly reducing its carbon footprint by 20 to 25 percent in the supply chain, and up to 58 percent across its life cycle compared to its predecessor.
BMW promises a high standard specification, with M Sport offered as standard in Ireland. M Sport Pro and BMW i5 M60 xDrive models will also be the higher spec options available. The latter delivers scintillating performance with 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds.
An all-electric drive will also be available in the BMW 5 Series Saloon for the first time. The BMW i5 eDrive40 offers a promised 477 to 582 kms range.
The BMW 5 Series Saloon range will further expand in early 2024 with the introduction of the BMW 530e and BMW 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid models, which are expected to offer an electric range of 78 to 90kms (WLTP ) and 86 to 100kms (WLTP ) respectively.
Also set to join the model family in spring 2024 is the next generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring, which will also be available with all-electric drive for the first time, as well as with plug-in hybrid drive and pure combustion engine drive.
BMW says that the new 5-Series will push in-car technology to new levels. In addition to a pure-electric drivetrain, the latest generation BMW 5 Series debuts several firsts for the iconic saloon. It is the first BMW in Ireland to feature Veganza upholstery as standard from launch, encompassing the seats, dashboard and door panels while the striking BMW Interaction Bar first seen in the BMW 7 Series is now incorporated in the new BMW 5 Series. It joins the joins the BMW Curved Display and it will be the first BMW to feature in-car gaming with AirConsole’
Furthermore, the saloon is now available with a panoramic roof – the first time in the model’s history – and the digital experience is taken to a new high with cutting-edge additions of AI-driven servicing notifications and the introduction of in-car gaming.
The premium German carmaker says that the exterior design of the latest generation reinterprets the sporty elegance of a BMW 5 Series Saloon in the brand’s current design language. Its proportions make the character of the dynamic business saloon instantly recognisable.
It adds that as a performance model from BMW M GmbH, the all-electric BMW i5 M60 xDrive comes as standard with specific exterior features that visually underline its outstanding sporting potential.
In addition, it claims that the road presence of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon is enhanced by its athletic proportions and the larger exterior measurements compared to its predecessor. The eight generation vehicle has grown in length by 97mm to 5,06mm, in width by 32mm to 1,900mm and in height by 36mm to 1,515mm. The wheelbase has been increased by 20mm to 2,995mm for improved seating comfort, especially in the rear.
More on the new BMW 5-Series after we drive it later this year.
