BMW has unveiled the updated seventh generation 5 Series. With improvements in exterior and interior design, aerodynamics and technology, plus the introduction of a new 48V mild hybrid system, this generation of 5 Series continues to deliver cutting-edge technology and performance into the sixth decade of 5 Series production.
The 2021 BMW 5 Series lineup includes the 246bhp 530i and 530i xDrive Sedans, 284bhp 530e and 530e xDrive PHEV Sedans, 330bhp 540i and 540i xDrive Sedans, and the 516bhp M550i xDrive Sedan. First introduced in 1972, the BMW 5 Series has continuously built its reputation as the executive sport sedan for discerning buyers by delivering performance, modern design, comfort and technology expected from a BMW.
When the driver releases the accelerator, the generator transforms the kinetic energy into electricity to be stored in the 48V battery. The additional deceleration generated over and above the engine braking effect is also harnessed when the brakes are applied.
When the car is accelerating, the 48V starter-generator is able to offer the driver an electric boost effect that can instantly put an extra 11bhp on tap for more dynamic power delivery. A special feature of the mild hybrid system is the ability to charge the 48V battery from the generator while driving at a constant speed. This method of generating electricity by raising the engine's load point is only employed when the battery charge is low and during phases when it does not have a detrimental effect on engine efficiency.
The 48V starter-generator has the additional benefit of allowing the engine to be switched off and started again very swiftly with less vibration. When the driver brakes for a stop, the engine can be switched off as soon as the car's speed drops below 14km/h. And if the coasting function is activated, the engine is also completely shut off rather than just being decoupled from the drivetrain.
All engines feature High Precision fuel injection operating at 350bar, along with VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing and double-VANOS variable camshaft timing.
The latest version of BMW's quick-shifting automatic transmission features a new, optimised hydraulic control system for improved response and efficiency.
Intelligent connectivity enables the eight-speed automatic transmission to adapt its shift strategy according to the route and driving situation. Working with the standard navigation system, the eight-speed Steptronic transmission uses data from this system and from the optional Active Cruise Control system's radar sensor. This makes it possible for the transmission to avoid unnecessary gear changes when negotiating a series of fast corners and, when approaching a vehicle ahead for example, to shift down early in order to use the engine braking to scrub off speed.
Lightweight and carefully tuned suspension components and bushings work in unison to prevent road irregularities from disrupting the steering while isolating the body and providing the agility expected of the BMW 5 Series sports sedan.
The interior of the 2021 5 Series Sedan is highlighted by the standard Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 12.3-inch digital central touchscreen control display. Standard Navigation, Apple CarPlay Compatibility and Android Auto Compatibility are included.
The buttons on the centre console are now finished in a high-gloss black. Standard on all four-cylinder and six-cylinder models is a new Perforated SensaTec upholstery with contrast stitching, giving an even more stylish look and feel to the interior. Dakota Leather is standard on the M550i xDrive and optional on the other models, while Nappa Leather is available as an option on all models. The dashboard on the four and six-cylinder 5 Series can be ordered in an optional Black SensaTec with brown stitching, which is standard on the M550i xDrive. All models feature standard Sport seats with M Multi-contour seats (standard on M550i xDrive) and a 40:20:40 split folding rear seat.
As part of the standard Live Cockpit Professional, the Navigation system is enhanced with 3D visualisations of the surrounding area, depicting all of the cars, trucks and motorcycles registered by the cameras and sensors in the driver's current lane as well as those in any adjacent lanes.
Vehicles within a critical distance are highlighted. Graphics indicate manoeuvres, which can be carried out with the help of the assistance systems.
These improvements help to produce a very accurate estimate of arrival time and improved route guidance. In addition, the driver can set rules by which the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant learns routines that increase convenience in specific situations. For instance, the driver's window could be opened automatically at a chosen location, such as the entrance to a garage.
All 2021 BMW 5 Series Sedans come equipped with standard Assist features designed to deliver peace of mind and improved driving comfort. Included systems are Lane Departure Warning with steering correction - to keep you in the lane, Frontal collision and pedestrian warning with braking function - which allows for reaction to vehicles, stationary objects, cyclists and pedestrians, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert - which warns of possible crossing traffic when backing up, Rear Collision Preparation, Automatic High Beams and Speed limit information.
