India-bound 2017 BMW 5 Series images leaked before official debut
BMW is all set to reveal the new-generation 5 Series sometime soon. However, the things to expect from the new iteration are no longer a surprise. Images of the 2017 BMW 5 Series have been leaked online. The images show the updated design and illustrate the cabin layout that will be offered in the premium sedan. The new G30 5 Series is expected to hit showrooms by early 2017.
While it was being said that the new BMW 5 Series would look remarkably different, it can be seen that the sedan borrows heavily from the flagship offering, the 7 Series. The kidney grille gets a design revision while the headlights seamlessly integrate with the grille. The central air dam and the fog lamp housings have been updated too. The overall silhouette remains similar except for the air vents behind the front wheel arches. Additionally, there are two strong character lines running along the length of the vehicle. The rear sees a new wider tail light design along with small bits shared with the 3 Series. It also gets twin trapezoidal exhaust pipes that add a sporty touch.
The cabin layout looks similar to the one offered in the present model. The changes that it gets is a new steering wheel, updated instrument cluster and a new iDrive infotainment screen mounted on the top of the dashboard. This one gets similar gesture controls as the 7 Series along with a better interface compared to the present unit.
BMW has still not revealed any information on the 2017 5 Series, but it is believed to be based on the brand's CLAR (CLuster ARchitecture) rear-wheel drive platform and will also incorporate lightweight CFRP (carbon-fibre reinforced plastic) construction that underpins the 7 Series. The new offering will be lighter than the previous version by 100kg.
Its engine options include both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder petrol as well as diesel engines that do duty in the present models. Sitting at the top of the range will be the new 444PS making 4.4-litre V8 motor, tentatively tagged as M550i. BMW might also introduce the new turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-cylinder motor which is seen in the Mini hatch. The 5 Series will also get a plug-in hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries. It can travel a distance of close to 35km in pure electric mode.
The 2017 BMW 5 Series will compete with the likes of Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the Audi A6. Post its global launch, BMW is also expected to bring the 2017 5 Series in India. Presently, BMW is offering a discount of Rs 10 lakh on the 520d Luxury Line and 520d M Sport models.
Image source: germancarforum