Posted on Monday 17 March 2008
Earlier today we saw a rendering of the upcoming A6 Avant and now we have a preview of one of the Audi’s closest rivals with this latest rendering of the 2010 BMW 5-series Touring. A class leader since its inception, the 5-series sedan and wagon remain crucial vehicles in BMW’s lineup and with the next-gen versions just over a year away speculation about the final design has been heating up.
The new 5-series is set to arrive in late 2009 for the 2010 model year and heavily disguised prototypes have already been seen testing around the streets of Munich. This latest rendering allows us to peer under the heavy camo gear, giving a clear indication as to what to expect for the new executive wagon.
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 recently revealed X6 is expected to appear in a range topping model, while more turbo-diesel 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.
2010 BMW 5-series Touring rendering
Wow! If this is conceptual drawing proves to be accurate - then BMW has actually returned some sense into their design! Sharp sedan.
I love it although I wish they kept the same headlight design from the previous model.