BMW's controversially styled new 5-Series GT will be heading to U.S. showrooms later this year. When it does, it could take the place of the current 5-Series Wagon altogether.

According to BMW's Martin Birkmann, head of product planning, "it's possible" that the hatchback 5-Series could be the replacement for the more traditional wagon. The new body style hasn't won many fans online in BMW forums, but it does give BMW a more visually distinctive vehicle to sell against the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon, which also arrives in the U.S. in the next nine months.

BMW plans to launch the new 5-Series GT late this year. The first model to make its debut will be a 550i GT, outfitted with BMW's twin-turbocharged, 4.4-liter V-8 engine. Six-cylinder versions, and GTs with xDrive all-wheel drive, will follow in 2010.

MotorAuthority will have more on the new 5-Series GT from the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show in September.