2010 BMW 5 Series: Midrange Gets Easier On The Pumps

Posted on August 10, 2008

The BMW 5 Series is being introduced as a replacement for the 'E60' series that was released in 2004. The car is supposed to be more elegantly styled than its predecessor with additional room inside, updated features and possibly even more miles to the gallon than before. The 5 Series is slightly longer than the current model with a wheel base that's been extended about 3". While that may not seem like much, it could make the world of difference if you're the one sitting in the back seat.

BMW sedans traditionally have exemplary handling capabilities and with the new slightly wider axle tracks on the 5 series, consumers are looking at an improvement. The new architecture of the car is making it around the same weight as the current models on the road, but there is a good possibility that the use of structural aluminum in the frame platform could actually make it a bit lighter.

Plus, the undercarriage design is giving the outer body a newer, sleeker look that will replace all of the curves, hollows, and angles the current versions seem to have been designed with. The trunk will be the more popular 'bustle' style and the grille will be larger with slimmer headlamps and LED running lights. For the most part the interior isn't changing except for glare-resistant displays with small gauge shrouds, and a simplified iDrive system that replaces the clunky version of the 2004 models.

The BMW 5 Series released in the United States will still have the base and twin-turbo 3.0 liter V6 engine, but both will be tweaked so that consumers get better gas mileage out of them. The V8 versions could get a new 4.4 liter V8 that will give more torque and horsepower to the car. The M5 version will not be seen in the 2010 5 Series. All of the cars will come either in a 6 speed manual transmission model or a new 8 speed automatic. BMW is playing around with the idea of offering a sport version of the car which might have the same dual clutch 7 speed automated manual transmission in it, similar to that found in the M5 engine models.

All of the 2010 BMW Series 5 cars will come equipped standard with: standard ABS; antiskid system; traction control; 17" wheels for the V6; and 18" wheels for the V8. Optional features include: BMW Active steering with variable ratio and assist; all-wheel drive in the V6 sedans; Active Roll Stabilization; and Dynamic Drive Control. Depending on the class series of car, consumers can also get as options navigation system, front- and rear-obstacle detection, keyless entry and engine start, adaptive cruise, night-vision system with head-up display, lane-departure-warning system, 20-way power front seats, and a heated steering wheel, and additional sports package options.

BMW is already a leader in fuel efficient cars so the Series 5 vehicles will have the same technology built into their engines to provide consumers with better gas mileage overall. The company is very good at making changes to the mid-size sedan that keep the vehicles in constant demand and they are expecting the new 2010 release to be no different. The estimated cost of the new 2010 BMW Series 5 is between $46,500 and $58,500.