Whether you find the 5-Series Gran Turismo's back gorgeous or simply engorged, its sleeker sedan sister is more univerally attractive, and it's priced to look even better, with the new $50,475 (including delivery) 535i coming in over $1,000 below the current car's price tag. The 550i is priced about the same as last year, at $60,575.

Unlike some other updated sedans, the 5-Series also continues its tradition of offering an available six-speed manual transmission, while the rest of the powertrain lineup gets updates. A new eight-speed automatic transmission joins the 5er range, as does the new N54 single, twin-scroll turbocharged inline six-cylinder (535i). The 550i gets the 400-horsepower 4.4-liter reverse-flow, twin-turbo V-8.

Other key updates to the new 5-Series include an updated familial face, underpinnings shared in part with the 7-Series, more EfficientDynamics tech like brake energy regeneration and electric power steering, plus some new driver-assistance tech like a "top view" camera, parking assistant and frontal collision warning systems.

For the full details on the new 2011 BMW 5-Series Sedan, check out our preview here. And be sure to stay tuned here next week as we bring you live news of the 2011 5er's unveiling from the New York Auto Show floor.

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