The updated BMW 5 Series has been officially launched in Singapore.
The popular executive saloon features an enhanced exterior design, as well as a long list of improvements to its drivetrain, convenience and connectivity features.
Significantly, BMW 5 Series models from official agent Performance Motors will have mild hybrid technology with a 48-volt starter-generator.
BMW 5 SERIES OFFERS MORE ROAD PRESENCE
The most noticeable changes to the exterior are the new kidney grilles, which are wider and “taller” than before. Surrounding them are the new LED headlights, which are slimmer compared to the older model.
The rear end looks more striking than before, thanks to the new L-shaped graphic of the tail-lights, which have a three-dimensional look when illuminated.
Available to give the BMW 5 Series a sportier character is the M Sport package and optional BMW Individual Air Performance wheels. These rims not only help reduce weight – they also improve the car’s aerodynamic efficiency.
In addition, a new M Sport Edition variant of the new BMW 5 Series will be available. A limited number of units from the production run of just 1000 cars will be coming to Singapore.
The M Sport Edition’s distinctive details include the M Sport package, model-specific Air Performance Wheels, Donington Grey metallic paint and new M multifunction seats previously reserved for the BMW M5.
MORE ADVANCED COCKPIT
BMW 520i and 530e models now have the 10.25-inch Control Display, while the 520i Luxury Line, 530i M Sport and 530i M Sport Edition models have the 12.3-inch Control Display.
The centre console features newly designed controls, while the steering wheel has newly arranged multi-function buttons.
Standard equipment for the new BMW 5 Series now also includes automatic climate control with extended features.
New additions to the options list include M multifunction seats with a wide range of adjustment, new interior trim strips and seat surfaces in Sensatec perforated trim.
MILD HYBRID TECHNOLOGY
The new BMW 5 Series models officially sold in Singapore will mild hybrid technology.
A 48-volt starter-generator and second battery enables a significant increase in brake energy that can be stored and regenerated.
This energy will be used to supply the electrical system, and supplementing the combustion engine’s workload and boosting its power. An additional 11hp is made available to the driver, which should comes in handy during overtaking manoeuvres.
ENHANCED POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS
The new BMW 5 Series comes with a choice of two petrol engines with either 184hp or 252hp, and one plug-in hybrid model with a combined system output of 292hp. All the engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
To heighten handling, M Sport suspension, Adaptive M suspension, and Adaptive M suspension Professional including active roll stabilisation can all be found on the options list.
The latest version of the optional Integral Active Steering aids the driver by turning the rear wheels even at speeds under 3km/h. Red callipers are now available as an alternative to the blue units as a visual differentiator for the M Sport brakes.
DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS
The latest BMW 5 Series features improvements to its driver assistance systems.
For instance, the Lane Departure Warning system included with the standard Driving Assistant now also features lane return by means of steering assistance.
The updated Steering and Lane Control Assistant included as part of the optional new Driving Assistant Professional package also brings Active Navigation.
The Parking Assistant’s range of functions has been extended with the addition of the Reversing Assistant, which takes control of the steering while backing up for distances of up to 50 metres.
NEW DIGITAL SERVICES
Both BMW Live Cockpit Plus and BMW Live Cockpit Professional systems bring the new BMW Operating System 7.0 to the new BMW 5 Series, together with a host of extra digital services.
The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant with extended functionality is also now available in the new BMW 5 Series as standard.
The standard Smartphone Integration function is now compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Remote Software Upgrade is another new feature. It enables improved vehicle functions and additional digital services to be imported into the car over the air.
BMW DIGITAL KEY NOW AVAILABLE FOR iPHONE
The BMW Digital Key for the iPhone will enable customers to just tap to unlock and easily get going by placing the iPhone in the smartphone tray and pushing the start button.
Setup of the Digital Key can be done through the BMW Connected App. The car owner can also share access with up to five friends including a configurable car access option for young drivers which restricts top speed, horsepower, maximum radio volume and more.
Management of access can be done from inside the car as well as through Apple Wallet.
Head over here to discover more about the BMW 5 Series
Click here for our review of the previous BMW 540i
Or here for our review of the preceding BMW 530i
BMW 5 Series takes on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class in this Group Test