LAOIS MOTORING: New BMW 5 Series

The start of the year is usually the peak time for manufacturers to announce new cars but with the month of June upon us BMW has announced the BMW 5 Series. 

The 5 series has been a top seller in the premium saloon segment for BMW while the Corsa has a similar performance in the small hatchback class.

The 5 Series is one of the most important models in the BMW line-up and it has proven to be a class leader and indeed considered by many to be the benchmark in the saloon car category. While many manufacturers have moved away from saloons in favour of the ubiquitous SUV, BMW have proven there is a strong market for a premium saloon.

This new 5 Series is the eighth generation of the model and for the veery first time the new line-up will include an all electric version as well as of course petrol, dies and plug in hybrid models.

The new car is larger than the outgoing model so promising more space inside and it is bristling with the very latest in automotive high tech and connectivity.

I like the new style, it remains conservative but distinctly BMW and they have avoided going for that huge front grille as on the 7 Series which has attracted a few negative comments.

Inside the new interior promises to offer both driver and passengers better safety, more comfort and a bold new style. BMW have included their new BMW curved display incorporating a 12.3 inch information display and a 14.9 inch control display. (Why do they quote inches these days?).

Personally I’m not a fan. BMW dashboards were some of the best in the business but their digital displays are in my opinion not as good as some from Mercedes.

All the combustion engined models come with a new 8-speed steptronic sports transmission and BMW’s latest version of iDrive.

Three trim levels are available, M Sport, M Sport Pro and I M60 X Drive with prices starting at €71,690.00.