2017 BMW 5 Series Preview
Competes with: Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS
Looks like: A groovier version of the outgoing model (groovier meaning, like, deeper grooves, not, like, a tie-dyed Volkswagen microbus)
Drivetrains: A 248-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a 335-hp, turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder; eight-speed automatic transmission; rear- or all-wheel drive
Hits dealerships: 2017
CARS.COM — The updated-for-2017 BMW 5 Series boasts shapelier styling, advanced technology and additional convenience features as well as the promise of improved performance and driving dynamics. Apart from that, while you can see change it’s not a sea change.
Related: BMW 7 Series Driver Assistance Systems Help Reduce Stress
Exterior
Slightly longer, wider and taller, the 2017 5 Series takes on a subtly more formidable presence that belies its substantial weight loss of 137 pounds thanks to the use of lighter materials such as aluminum and high-strength steel. The characteristic widened dual-kidney grille now extends to the twin circular LED headlights, giving more of a flared-nostril effect. Additionally, deepened lower front air intakes further the expression.
The profile takes on a groovier, more muscular appearance courtesy of more pronounced character lines stretching the entire length of the car. Around back, the widened-out effect continues with elongated taillights and a lower-slung stance.
Interior
The cabin’s finishes appear to have largely carried over, but BMW said occupants will enjoy increased passenger space thanks to the 5 Series’ larger dimensions, as well as a more voluminous 18.7-cubic-foot trunk the automaker said can accommodate four golf bags. Tech and comfort upgrades for 2017 include a 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen featuring BMW’s iDrive 6.0 touchpad and available massaging front seats.
Also new for 2017 on the 5 Series is gesture control. Debuting for 2016 on the larger 7 Series flagship sedan, the optional feature enables control of navigation, phone, infotainment and other functions via hand motions. It sounds like a nifty convenience, though it can have unintended consequences such as turning the stereo volume all the way up for those given to cartoonishly dramatic gesticulation (we don’t mean us). In addition, BMW said the 5 Series’ navigation system assimilates the driver’s habits and adjusts future routes based on that information.
Under the Hood
The 5 Series will be available in 530i and 540i trims, each with rear- or all-wheel drive. The 530i gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 248 horsepower and 258 pounds-feet of torque. BMW said that’s good for a zero-to-60-mph sprint of 6 seconds (5.8 seconds with AWD) and a top speed of 130 mph.
The 540i, meanwhile, is equipped with a turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder said to make 335 hp and 332 pounds-feet of torque, good for a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.9 seconds (4.7 with AWD). The 540i also has a top speed of 130 mph, but that clip can be increased to 155 mph for both it and the 530i with the M Sport Package.
Both models are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW promised improved driving dynamics courtesy of suspension updates and weight savings, but did not provide mileage estimates.
Safety
Advanced safety features for 2017 include adaptive cruise control that accommodates anything from stop-and-go traffic up to 130 mph (in case that comes up), lane departure warning, lane keep assist with Traffic Jam Assistant semi-autonomous steering, and front crash prevention with obstacle “evasion aid.”
No word on pricing yet, but the 2016 5 Series starts around $51,000 and $56,000 for the 528 and 535 models, respectively. For comparison, the 2017 Audi A6 starts around $48,000, the 2017 Lexus GS around $51,000 and the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class around $53,000; all prices include destination.
