2024 BMW 5 Series: What You Need To Know

BMW has unveiled its latest generation 5 Series, revealing a modern, dynamic design that melds traditional BMW aesthetics with cutting-edge advancements. A major highlight of this launch is the introduction of the first ever fully electric variant in the lineup, the BMW i5.

The Dawn of the BMW i5:

In a landmark move, the German automaker introduced the BMW i5 – the first fully electric variant of the 5 Series. Propelled by two electric motors, the i5 showcases BMW’s ambition to lead the charge towards sustainable mobility.

This fully electric model comes with a striking design unique to the i5, enhancing its sporty character. It also comes with model-specific chassis technology such as Adaptive M Suspension Professional and near-actuator wheel slip limitation for optimized traction and superior performance. A stroke-dependent damping mechanism on both axles provides added comfort, while rear-axle air suspension ensures optimum vehicle height under different load conditions.

The i5 also debuts anticipatory thermal management to optimize the temperature of the high-voltage battery in advance of a stop at a fast-charging station, offering increased potential for shorter charging times and reduced battery wear.

Sleek and Sporty Exterior Redesign

The exterior design of the new 5 Series reinterprets the sporty elegance of a BMW sedan in the brand’s current design language. Its dimensions have increased across the board, giving it an even more impressive presence on the road.

The redesigned BMW 5 Series features modern, minimalist LED headlights and a dynamic, forward-projecting BMW kidney grille. The side view further emphasizes the sporty character of the sedan, with dynamic proportions, a high shoulder line, and two distinct character lines.

Tailored Performance: BMW 530i xDrive

Under the hood of the new BMW 530i xDrive lies a new generation 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder engine, with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head. This allows for a sporty 0-100 km/h time of only 6.1 seconds. The new 5 Series offers a double-wishbone front axle and five-link rear axle, which should ensure the model remains at the top of its class for driving dynamics.

Highway Assistant with Active Lane Change:

BMW’s commitment to innovation and driving comfort is evident in the optional Driving Assistance Professional feature now available on the 5 Series. This latest evolution introduces the Highway Assistant, enabling hands-free driving at speeds up to 130 km/h, provided that conditions and speed limits allow. However, it’s important to note that even with the Highway Assistant activated, drivers must always maintain attention and readiness to take control when needed.

The Highway Assistant uses an interior camera to continuously monitor driver attention. It demonstrates BMW’s commitment to enhance both driving comfort and safety. But it’s the Active Lane Change feature that truly pushes the boundaries of automotive technology.

Eye Activation: A World First in Active Lane Change

In a significant world-first, the Driving Assistance Professional Package has been upgraded to include an eye-activated Active Lane Change feature. When a lane change is suggested by the vehicle, the driver simply needs to look at the corresponding outside rearview mirror to confirm it.

This eliminates the need to use the turn signal for confirmation. Instead, the vehicle performs the necessary steering movements automatically at speeds up to 130 km/h, as long as traffic conditions and speed limits permit. This new approach to lane changes combines comfort and safety in a manner previously unseen in the automotive sector, resulting in a seamless interaction between driver and vehicle.

Enhanced Visibility: Assisted View in the Instrument Cluster

To give drivers a comprehensive view of activated systems and their functionalities, the Assisted View in the instrument cluster offers a valuable resource. The central area of the cockpit display is dedicated to an augmented reality representation of the vehicle and its surroundings.

This feature uses camera images combined with additional graphics and information to provide an accurate, real-time view of the vehicle’s environment. The processed images help drivers to maintain a clear overview of the vehicle’s surroundings as captured by cameras and sensors. This significant upgrade to the Driving Assistance Professional Package highlights BMW’s ongoing commitment to technological advancements that enhance the overall driving experience.

In all, the new 5 Series makes an impressive statement in its class, and the introduction of the i5 variant makes it clear that BMW is ready to charge forward in the new era of electric vehicles.