New-generation BMW 5 Series production commences in India

BMW India has begun the production of the new generation 5 Series sedan at its Chennai facility in Tamil Nadu. The all-new 5 Series is slated for launch on June 29th.

The new 5 Series (codenamed G90) is in its seventh generation now. The executive saloon is now based on a new OKL platform. This architecture is built with a mix of carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP), magnesium and aluminium added to high-strength steel making the new 5 Series almost 100kg lighter than the current car. The new 5 Series is also longer and has a wheelbase of 2,975mm. The new long-wheel base E-Class sold in India has a wheelbase is 3079mm. The new 5 Series, as a result, will offer more cabin space.

There’s a new infotainment system on board as well with gesture control borrowed from the new 7 Series. The gesture control is a part of the new iDrive interface between the driver and the car. The iDrive allows you to change the ambient lighting, vehicle setup, audio setup and other settings through the rotary knob, touchscreen or the steering mounted controls with different levels of access to each interface.

Just like its elder sibling, the new 5 will be able to move out of the parking spot in the straight line with the remote control of its intelligent key fob. It’s a first-in-the-segment feature and is the most basic form of autonomous technology from the German carmaker.

When launched the new 5 Series is expected to be available in three trims –  520i, 520d and the 530d. The engine options will be a four-cylinder 2.0-litre diesel and petrol, and a six-cylinder 3.0-litre diesel, all mated to eight-speed automatic transmissions.

We expect the new 5 Series to be priced at about Rs 55 lakh for the entry-level trim while the top-spec car with the 3.0-litre straight six will be priced at about Rs 65 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi). Once launched the new 5 Series will compete against the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the updated Audi A6 and Jaguar XF and the fresh Volvo S90.