Autoblog

BMW considering bringing 5 Series Touring back to U.S., V12 to soldier on with hybrid

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, BMW

The 5 Series Gran Turismo hasn't met its lofty sales expectations in the United States, so BMW is considering bringing the 5 Series Touring back to our shores.

Although nothing is set in stone, Autoblog has learned that the possibility of the wagon making a reappearance on U.S. soil is back on the table. While sales of the 5 Series GT haven't been particularly robust, the model has managed to outsell the previous 5 Series Touring since its arrival last year - this, despite its lukewarm reception and controversial appearance.

We've also been informed that the twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V12 currently fitted to the 760Li won't shuffle off this mortal coil anytime soon. Instead, BMW is considering fitting the massive mill with its ActiveHybrid system to boost fuel economy and performance. We could see this electrically augmented 12-cylinder unit within the next three years in both the 7 Series flagship and future Rolls-Royce vehicles.

BMW considering bringing 5 Series Touring back to U.S., V12 to soldier on with hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: New BMW 5 Series M-Sport package out and about

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 31 May 2010 20:09:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Performance, Paris Motor Show, BMW

2011 BMW 5 Series M-Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

For those BMW fans who appreciate the more aggressive looks of the automaker's M division models but either don't have the budget or don't need their full performance capabilities, Bimmer also offers M-Sport packages that take you part way there. With the new 5 Series now making its way to dealers and customers in Europe and North America, the corresponding M-Sport pack can't be far behind.

As with previous iterations, this prototype suggests that the new model will receive a deeper front air-dam with larger intakes, side sill extensions and a re-contoured back bumper to accommodate the larger the tailpipes. We don't have any interior shots but M-Sport packages typically including some trim upgrades like aluminum or carbon-fiber, along with more aggressive sport seats and potentially a different steering wheel.

Mechanical changes with M-Sport packages are typically limited to wheels and tires, brakes and perhaps some suspension bits. Both the M-Sport and M5 are expected to debut at the Paris Motor Show in September.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5 Series M-Sport

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: New BMW 5 Series M-Sport package out and about originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 May 2010 20:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW 530d passes crash test using emergency brake intervention

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 28 May 2010 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Europe, Safety, Technology, BMW, Diesel, Luxury

The new 2011 BMW 530d has easily passed its first crash test evaluation while using active emergency brake intervention. Like a number of other cars to come to market recently, the 5 Series is available with a radar-based active cruise control system that can use the brake system to manage vehicle speed and keep the car a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Recently these systems have been enhanced with emergency brake intervention that allows full braking force to be applied if crash is imminent - even when the cruise control is not being used.

However, current crash test procedures don't allow for the activation of such systems. For example, in the European 40 mile per hour frontal offset test, the vehicle is expected to crash at 40 mph. In the real world, active braking would reduce the speed of the impact, likely reducing severity as well. However, applying full brakes also causes the nose to pitch down and the cars occupants to shift position can alter the test's results.

As more cars get these types of systems, they need to be accounted for in crash testing, and BMW is working with German testing agency DEKRA to develop new procedures. Check out the official press release after the jump.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW 530d passes crash test using emergency brake intervention

BMW 530d passes crash test using emergency brake intervention originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 May 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Report: Slow early sales have BMW thinking 5GT should've launched with six-cylinder

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 24 May 2010 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Hatchback, BMW

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

It appears that BMW may have overestimated the U.S. market appeal for high-end versions of the 550i Gran Turismo, and executives now acknowledge that the six-cylinder 535i probably should have been available at launch. It's not unusual for an automaker to launch an all-new model by shipping mostly loaded, top-level versions in order to absorb the maximum number of dollars from early adopters, but sometimes that approach backfires if the market isn't ready for the new vehicle.

Case in point is the 5GT, of which BMW has apparently sold fewer than 1,200 units in the U.S. since the launch of the polarizing people mover late last year. Interestingly, BMW has found that more women than expected have bought the model, while its less-than-stellar fuel consumption has hurt sales in a still-weak U.S. economy. Gran Turismo sales are apparently ahead of projections elsewhere, but those other markets launched with both gasoline and diesel inline-six engine choices.

Given that the 5GT is best suited as a road trip machine, it might make sense for BMW to install the 3.0-liter diesel from the X5 and 335d as an alternative to the twin-turbo V8. So far BMW has not indicated any plans to offer a diesel GT in America, but the less costly 535i GT is still slated to arrive in the Fall.

Gallery: Review: 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Report: Slow early sales have BMW thinking 5GT should've launched with six-cylinder originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: BMW may bring diesel 5 Series to America

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 13 May 2010 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, BMW, Rumormill, Diesel, Luxury

2011 BMW 5 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

The new 2011 BMW 5 Series hasn't even gone on sale yet here in North America but there are now reports that BMW might add a diesel engine option. According to Inside Line, BMW will add diesel engine options to two more models in addition to the X5 xDrive35d and 335d already sold here with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six diesel.

The 3.0-liter with 265 horsepower and 425 pound-feet of torque would be ideally suited to the new 5 Series and has already been calibrated to pass U.S. 50 state emissions regulations. We drove a previous generation European specification 535d two years ago, which was quite the stormer while also being extremely fuel efficient. A 535d would also go a long way towards helping BMW meet new CAFE regulations here in the U.S.

The second diesel addition could be one of several models. Diesel versions of the 7 Series and X6 both seem unlikely since BMW is already offering hybrid versions of both. The more likely scenario is the installation of the company's 2.0-liter inline four- cylinder diesel in either the 1 or 3 Series. In twin-turbocharged form, this engine produces 204 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, plenty for either car with a combined fuel economy in the 35-40 mpg range.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 BMW 535i

Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Inside Line]

Rumormill: BMW may bring diesel 5 Series to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 May 2010 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series Hybrid spotted whirring about

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 19:23:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hybrid, Sedan, BMW, Luxury

BMW 5 Series Hybrid spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

It hardly seems worthy of BMW's distinctively swirly camouflage - after all, we pretty much know exactly what it will look like after seeing the latest 5 Series several times and even gazing at the ActiveHybrid Concept from the Geneva Motor Show - but here we are with an image gallery of the 2012 5 Series Hybrid.

Assuming that the production car will get a similar drivetrain to what was shown off in the aforementioned concept, we can expect to see a turbocharged inline six-cylinder mated up to an eight-speed automatic transmission with a 40-kilowatt electric motor sandwiched between.

We can't say for certain what kind of fuel mileage this combination would provide (best guess would be about a 20-percent improvement), but we do know that a lithium ion battery pack should be nestled right near the rear axle for optimum weight distribution. That pack not only allows the car to operate on electric power, it also provides short bursts of added performance when called upon. Check out the high-res image gallery of spy shots below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid

Spy Shots: BMW 5 Series Hybrid spotted whirring about originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 19:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Lexus, Infiniti reportedly not interested in taking on BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, Acura, BMW, Infiniti, Lexus, Design/Style, Luxury

BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Depending on who you ask, BMW is either at the forefront of an exciting new automotive genre with the 5 Series Gran Turismo, or is inventing market segments with no real purpose other than to grab several thousand new sales from those who simply must be seen in the latest trendy niche. In other words, the 5 Series GT is nothing if not polarizing.

For now, it seems that you can put such luxury brands Lexus and Infiniti in the latter camp, though fellow upmarket Japanese automaker Acura is headed down a similar path as its German counterpart with the new ZDX - at least with regard to the X6. Speaking to Auto Observer at the New York Auto Show, Ben Poore, Nissan North America's vice president of the Infiniti business unit, said, "What [we are] seeing is a much stronger preference (among consumers) for a trunk."

Granted, some may see little difference between such vehicles as the 5 Series GT and Infiniti's own EX and FX crossovers, but Poore suggests the machines aren't direct competitors. "I'd rather be on (either) the crossover styling or the trunk styling," he said. Dave Nordstrom, Lexus' vice president of marketing, concurs, saying, "We don't have any plans for it right now. We have not seen the demand from our customers - but we continue to look at it."

As for us? Well, you can read all about our initial impressions of the 5 Series GT by looking back at our First Drive. Suffice it to say, our own office is split on the effectiveness of this new giant hatchback trend just like everyone else.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: Auto Observer]

Lexus, Infiniti reportedly not interested in taking on BMW's 5 Series Gran Turismo originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

2011 BMW 5 Series priced from $50,475*

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 15:32:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, BMW, Luxury

2011 BMW 535i - Click above for high-res image gallery

On the whole, we're pretty impressed with the 2011 BMW 5 Series, and after conducting our first drive in Portugal, we're confident that the F10 Fiver will make its way to the head of the class once again. Next week, the car will officially debut for the North American public at the New York Auto Show, and it will officially go on sale in June of this year, priced from $50,475 for the 535i and $60,575 for the 550i (including $875 for destination and handling).

The first key item to note is the base prices for both models are actually less than the current cars (only slightly, truth be told). However, in true German business-class luxury form, it's the options list that'll get you. Naturally, you'll want to shell out $2,200 for the Sport Package, and we'd recommend adding $2,700 for the Dynamic Handling Package, as well. Other fancy-shmancy add-ons include the usual Premium ($1,800, 535i only) or Premium 2 ($4,900/$2,800, 535i/550i) packages, Nappa leather ($2,450/$1,000), rear-seat entertainment ($2,200), integral active steering ($1,750), active cruise control ($2,400) and night vision with pedestrian detection ($2,600). The full list of options is available after the jump.

Still, even with the exhaustive options list, the 5 Series is competitively priced against its key competitors - the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. And with a choice of two turbocharged engines, top-notch interior refinement and some shiny new sheetmetal, we're sure that prospective 5 Series owners will be quite pleased.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 BMW 535i

Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading 2011 BMW 5 Series priced from $50,475*

2011 BMW 5 Series priced from $50,475* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #168 - Geneva Eve

Dan Roth — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:10:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, Geneva Motor Show, Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Kia, Lamborghini, Lexus, Porsche, Suzuki, Volkswagen

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

The Shunk, Nunez, Abuelsamid and Roth quartet reconvene for Episode #168 of the Autoblog Podcast with the Geneva Motor Show now underway. Our first order of business is a stop at the Autoblog Garage, occupied this week by the Suzuki Kizashi, Kia Sorento, BMW 750Li, and Cadillac SRX. Anticipating the massive auto show that's just about to start, we dive right in. Starting us off is the awesome electric-green Lamborghini 570-4 Superleggera. Jumping from Italian exotics to the ultimate SUV, we talk about the 2011 Porsche Cayenne before segueing cleanly into a discussion of the crack-pipe pricing for the Volkswagen Touareg hybrid. Before we leave the VW/Porsche sphere, we talk about how insanely cool the Porsche 918 Spyder concept car is. The Ford Focus station wagon is one of those things we'll see in Geneva, but likely not in the U.S., while the Lexus CT200h is making its way to the shores of North America. BMW's 5 Series Active Hybrid Concept keeps up the cavalcade of alternative propulsion by the big Swiss lake, and it's our last topic before calling it a night. Thanks for listening!

Direct fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #168 - Geneva Eve

Autoblog Podcast #168 - Geneva Eve originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #163 - Paukert Re-Redux

Dan Roth — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:15:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, Hybrid, Government/Legal, Plants/Manufacturing, Audi, BMW, Ford, GM, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Saab, Toyota, Spyker, Rumormill

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Episode #163 of the Autoblog Podcast is here and Chris Paukert once again adds his insight as he's fast becoming the fourth regular member of the crew. First up we peek into the Autoblog Garage, occupied this week by a Nissan Versa, Audi S4, and a Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid. Topics follow, with our first drive of the 2011 BMW 5 Series starting us off before we move on to Ed Whitacre's new status as official General Motors CEO and get all misty about the uncertain fortunes of Saab (glad that's been cleared up.) Toyota's most recent recall for its throttle issue, the 2011 BMW 335is, and rumors of a 50th anniversary edition Ford Mustang with independent rear suspension finish us off before we take some questions and call it a night.

Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget - there's going to be big Apple Tablet news soon! Let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #163 - Paukert Re-Redux

Autoblog Podcast #163 - Paukert Re-Redux originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo caught swirling around?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Performance, Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW, Luxury

If you love the idea of the 5 Series Gran Turismo but don't want a vehicle quite that large, BMW's got something baking in the oven that you may very well be interested in: a 3 Series Gran Turismo. Just like its larger sibling, this wagon that's masquerading as anything other than a wagon will sport a fastback-like rear roof design that covers up a larger cargo hold than the standard 3's trunk.

It appears that the upcoming 3 Series Gran Turismo will be both longer and wider than the current 3, and that size advantage may carry over to the rest of the 3 Series line as well. Expect a predominantly aluminum chassis underneath the slinky new bodywork to help keep weight from escalating out of control.

BMW has made no mention of when the 3 Series GT might hit the market, but if it makes an appearance before the expected sedan, coupe and wagon versions of the next 3 - as was the case with the latest BMW 5 Series - we might see the fastback wagon sometime in 2012.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo caught swirling around? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Detroit Preview: BMW 535i Gran Turismo also gets a six pack

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Crossover, Hatchback, BMW

2010 BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW is rounding out its Detroit Auto Show premier lineup with the North American debut of the 535i Gran Turismo. The 550i GT that's powered by the 4.4-liter twin turbo V8 is already on sale in the U.S., but we won't get our shot at the six cylinder model until the spring of 2010. Like the recently-announced 5 Series sedan, the Gran Turismo is getting a new version of the 3.0-liter inline six cylinder turbo.

The current 535i and 335i both use a version of the six with two turbochargers. The version in the GT produces the same 300 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque with a single twin-scroll turbocharger. The engine also incorporates BMW's Valvetronic valve control system to reduce fuel consumption by eliminating the throttle and reducing pumping losses. The six will be mated up with the same new ZF eight-speed automatic used in the 550i and the ActiveHybrid 7. Want more details? Click past the break for the press release.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: BMW 535i Gran Turismo also gets a six pack

Detroit Preview: BMW 535i Gran Turismo also gets a six pack originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: BMW ActiveHybrid 5 concept could debut in Geneva

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, BMW

2011 BMW 5 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

Late last month, BMW officially revealed its next generation 5 series sedan in Munich and the opening salvo of powertrains includes the usual array of gas and diesel six- and eight-cylinder engines. However, with the recent launches of the ActiveHybrid X6 and 7, no one expects it to stay that way for long. BMW officials have acknowledged its intent to expand hybrid capability to other models going forward and, as the next redesign, the 5 would be the logical choice.

We're not sure if the new 5 will show up at the Detroit show next month, but it should appear by the Geneva Motor Show in March. At that time, the ActiveHybrid 5 will probably debut as a concept with the production version possibly arriving by the end of 2010. At this point, it appears unlikely that we'll see any more BMW applications of the two-mode hybrid system used in the X6 (with the possible exception of the X5). Instead, the modular mild hybrid from the 7 is the likely candidate since it delivers much of the benefit at a lower cost and smaller packaging size.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan

[Source: BMWBlog]

Rumormill: BMW ActiveHybrid 5 concept could debut in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Autoblog Podcast #154

Dan Roth — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:10:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Podcasts, Etc., Acura, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Episode #154 of the Autoblog Podcast is here for your tryptophan-addled pleasure. Chris, Sam, and Dan kick it, starting with the BMW 5 Series, then move on to such appetite supressants as the Lexus GX, Acura ZDX and its pricing, and Infiniti's re-style of the massive QX56 rig. Before we become an emetic, we move on to the pretty new Infiniti M, the ongoing anticipation for a US-bound Chevrolet Spark, and Hyundai's new 2.4 liter direct-injection 4 cylinder for the next Sonata. We hit some questions, and wrap it up in time for pie.

If you're looking to bulk up on podcast excellence over the Thanksgiving holiday, check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget. Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #154

Autoblog Podcast #154 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:12:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, BMW

2011 BMW 5 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 5 Series is an important model for BMW, particularly in North America where it's the brand's second best seller behind the 3 Series. Heading into 2010, BMW has expanded its mid-size line with the new Gran Turismo body style already on sale. However, the volume leader for the 5 Series is the four-door sedan, which officially debuts today. The 2011 model transitions to a new platform architecture shared with the latest 7 Series as well as the upcoming Rolls-Royce Ghost. The 5 Series sedan gets a four-inch shorter wheelbase than its siblings, but at 116.9 inches, it still stretches well past its competition. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class runs a mere 113.1 inches between its axles and the Cadillac CTS is 113.4 inches.

From a technical perspective, the new 5 Series picks up much of what can be found in the 7 Series and the Gran Turismo. Read on after the jump to learn more about it.

UPDATE: Nine videos added and more images uploaded into gallery.

Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan

Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

BMW reportedly stopping production of current 5 Series to pave way for new model

Noah Joseph — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Wagon, BMW, Luxury

BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

No matter what you think of the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo wagon/hatchback/crossover/thing, if you want to get your hands on a brand-new Bimmer 5, that may be your only choice for the time being. Reports suggest that the Bavarian automaker has stopped taking orders for the E-60 5 Series sedan and wagon, with production tipped to end in December in preparation for the new model.

Dealers have reportedly been instructed only to take "special orders" for the outgoing 5 (whatever that means) with the new GT version scheduled to hit the streets by year's end. Of course, dealers stocked with extra sedans and wagons will be eager to offload their inventory, and we'll be keeping an eye out for hints of the new model coming around the bend.

Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo

[Source: BimmerFile]

BMW reportedly stopping production of current 5 Series to pave way for new model originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

2011 BMW 5-Series - Click above for gallery

A year ago, we showed you pics of the next-generation BMW 5-Series doing some high-speed testing on the Nürburgring, but that was pretty much the last we heard about this midsize bahnstormer. Well, intrepid spy photographer Rich Truesdell spotted a similar mule out in the desert last week, and he has filled us in on some additional details. The car he spotted appears to be a 2011 BMW 540i sedan. Rich relates that the car was big enough to have him thinking 7-Series at first, but BMW helped out by having a clearly larger current 7 on hand for comparison purposes. How thoughtful of them.

While not a lot of final detail shows through, Truesdell points out that the heavy rear quarter cladding could be a tip that something is brewing in the recently revamped styling department in Munich. In particular, around the C-pillar, there was a lot of camo, indicating that perhaps there's something worth hiding. Beyond that, the sedan looks like a shortened 7-Series from most angles, and the dual exhausts suggest that this is likely the V8-powered 540i. Follow the source link to read what Rich thought of the vehicle and to see all of the photos in high-res.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule

All images (C) 2009 Rich Truesdell/Automotivetraveler.com

[Source: Automotive Traveler]

Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: BMW 5-Series GT

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 12 May 2009 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchback, BMW

A couple of near production-ready 5-Series GTs have been caught on BMW's home turf, and to our eyes they don't hurt the car, but they don't make a case for it either. The last time we were in this situation -- hoping a car's production version would be a huge improvement over it's pre-production form -- was with the Porsche Panamera, and we know how that ended. While we're certain this Progressive Activity Sedan has some purpose, we wonder where are all of these potential buyers are who supposedly demand a little more cargo room than a 5 Series sedan, a little less than a wagon, and one less seat. Check out more photos by clicking the image above.

[Source: 5post]

Spy Shots: BMW 5-Series GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Geneva Preview: Full details emerge on BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:59:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Wagon, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, BMW

Click above for a high-res gallery of the BMW 5 Series Gran Touring Concept

BMW is back at it again with the 5 Series Gran Turismo concept, inventing categories that don't yet exist with a vehicle that isn't quite a sedan, wagon, crossover or SUV. Instead, the Bavarian automaker refers to its new vehicle as a Progressive Activity Sedan, which apparently means that it's a fastback wagon that sits a bit higher off the ground than normal sedans. If you love the shape of the X6 but don't need the ground clearance, you'll probably find little to complain about from the 5 Series GT.

While we're not quite sure we're on board with the new bodystyle, one feature we do admire is the two-piece, double-jointed tailgate. It's a clever take on the classic problem of how to access the rear hatch in tight quarters. Once open, that space can hold a cavernous 58 cubic feet of stuff with the rear seats folded down. Regardless of the total amount of room, we've got to wonder if that oddly shaped opening will severely limit what can fit in the boot.

For such a large vehicle, there's not that much room inside for passengers. Just four occupants will find a spot for their keisters, though it does appear that each of them will be coddled with plenty of room (all four seats slide fore and aft) and electronic gadgetry. The center console extends from the dash all the way to the rear seating area, providing a spot to put elbows and doodads in their respective places. Our guess is that production won't be too far in the future and with only mild changes to this concept's basic design. Check back next month for live shots of the Tourer from the Geneva Motor Show. Complete press release and videos after the jump.

Gallery: BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo concept

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Full details emerge on BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept

Geneva Preview: Full details emerge on BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: Pontiac G8 embarrasses BMW 5-Series in internet ad

John Neff — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, BMW, Pontiac

Click above to view video

This is the part where we say, "Oh, snap!" An interesting internet video hosted on the PontiacIsCAR YouTube channel, which makes it at least semi-official, pits the Pontiac G8 GT against the BMW 550i in a 1-minute, 21-second-long homage to the quick cut. Seriously, we've seen MTV promos that keep an image onscreen longer than this video. Obviously, the G8 GT is made to look good in this epileptic seizure-inducing vid, coming in at half the price than the BMW, but being faster, more powerful and offering more interior space. It's a clever vid, though not as good as the Pontiac G8 Spy Hunter commercial, which is awesome on an epic scale. Rather, this little ad goes after the Bavarian brand with a blatant disregard for the premium image that BMW has earned over the years by actually building the Ultimate Driving Machine in every segment that it competes. Sure, BMWs cost a pretty premium over comparable cars, but when was the last time - before the G8 arrived - that Pontiac could claim it actually built excitement? Take a chill pill over there, Pontiac. The G8's a good car, just let it ride. Thanks for the tip, Jake!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Pontiac G8 embarrasses BMW 5-Series in internet ad

VIDEO: Pontiac G8 embarrasses BMW 5-Series in internet ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments