The highly anticipated next-generation BMW 5 Series LWB has been officially unveiled in India. Ahead of its price announcement on 24 July, the BMW 5 Series LWB is set to compete with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, expected to launch later this year.
Launch Date: 24 July
Powertrains: Expected petrol and diesel options
Exterior Design Highlights
The new BMW 5 Series LWB retains the signature shape and elements of the 5 Series range but comes with significant updates. The car is larger than its predecessor, measuring 5.17 meters in length with a wheelbase of 3.1 meters. This makes it slightly longer than the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which measures 5.09 meters with a wheelbase of 3.09 meters.
Key exterior design features include:
- A revised kidney grille
- Sharper bumpers
- Multi-spoke alloy wheels
The model displayed in the pictures features 18-inch wheels, but BMW will also offer 19-inch options during configuration. The BMW 5 Series LWB boasts signature wrap-around taillamps, now full LED units, providing a cleaner and simpler design compared to its predecessor.
Interior Design Highlights and Feature List
The interior design of the BMW 5 Series LWB draws inspiration from the iX. It features a minimalistic layout with a large one-piece screen that serves both the driver and passenger, with a slight orientation towards the driver. The center console includes:
- iDrive dial
- Volume controls
- Drive modes
- Gear selector
A significant selling point is the rear seat package, which, thanks to the extended wheelbase, offers more room across all dimensions compared to the outgoing model. While it does not include the curved roof-mounted display seen in the 7 Series, optional seatback screens are expected to be available at launch. The second row is fixed in place, unlike the E-Class LWB which has adjustable bases and seatbacks.
The feature list for the BMW 5 Series LWB includes:
- Multi-zone climate control
- Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)
- 18-speaker Bowers and Wilkins sound system
- USB-C charging ports
- Wireless phone charger
- Ventilated front seats with power function
BMW 5 Series LWB Powertrain Options, Pricing, and Competition
The BMW 5 Series LWB is expected to come in various powertrain options, similar to the outgoing model. Anticipated options include the 520d and 520i at launch, with the 530d and 530i M-Sport versions expected later. All powertrains will feature a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission powering the rear wheels. The xDrive option is likely to be reserved for the next-generation M5, expected in 2025.
Pricing for the new BMW 5 Series LWB is expected to range between Rs. 85 lakh and Rs. 1 crore. The car will compete with the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X3, and Audi Q5.
