Spy shots: BMW's next 5-series up close

With the 2009 Audi A6 facelift now on sale and the 2010 Mercedes Benz E-Class starting to hit showrooms, attention now turns to the next-generation BMW 5-series. A class leader since its inception, the 5-series Sedan and Touring wagon remain crucial vehicles in BMW’s lineup and with the next-gen versions now just months away speculation about the final design has been heating up. The new 5-series Sedan is set to arrive late this year for the 2010 model year and heavily disguised prototypes have already been seen testing around the streets of Munich. While those prototypes revealed few details, previous computer generated renderings give us a clear indication as to what to expect for the new model. Most of the planned changes are skin-deep. Under the new sheet metal, BMW will continue with its new found love of turbocharging. The new 4.4L twin-turbo V8 from the X6 and new 5-series GT is expected to appear in a range topping model, while more turbodiesel variants are expected to join the lineup as well. BMW is currently developing its second generation common rail system for its diesel powerplants, which will operate at greater pressure for improved performance. The transmission systems will include a six-speed manual and a six-speed Steptronic semi-auto gearbox, however a new eight-speed unit from ZF is also expected to be available. Performance will also be improved thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials including carbon-fiber and aluminum. The car’s construction will be a hybrid of an aluminum spaceframe for the front section, and a traditional steel monocoque for the passenger compartment and rear. This will ensure a favorable front-to-rear weight distribution and improved handling. Up front will be an independent suspension with MacPherson struts, with a multi-link layout for the rear. High-performance models will include carbon-fiber body panels to shed even more weight. Check out our previous story for more details including information on the next M5 by clicking here.Preview: 2010 BMW 5-series2010 BMW 5-series spy shots

By Fan #1, Posted: 7/4/2008

i bet there is no change lol
By www.mywheelsonwalls.com #2, Posted: 7/4/2008

I think it looks fantastic!!! I hope they sell them covered up too, much easier on the eyes that way!!!
by simon pj #3, Posted: 3/5/2009

Looking at the interior shots for the 5 Series GT previewed at Geneva, the dashboard is clearly going to be identical - you can tell this by comparing the location of the buttons above the gearshift, the location of the airvents, the switch (stop start button?) to the right of the steering wheel etc. This would be great news, as the interior of the 5 Series GT looked great!
by bepsf #4, Posted: 7/10/2009

Hooray!
No more Dame Edna headlamps!
by b59 #5, Posted: 7/10/2009

should take the fight to mercedes in a big way, and the design should be winner also
by NoNameDenton #6, Posted: 7/10/2009

So is the M5 getting a tt V10 or V8, many people disagree
by azlan #7, Posted: 7/11/2009

i heard it was a quad turbocharged v16 with a 9 speed transmission and helium suspension.....
by WizardsLore #8, Posted: 7/12/2009

well considering the new 5 series is going to be the same size as the 7 series of 10 years ago i wouldnt waste my money. The 3 series is now in the 5 series market size and price wise.