BMW has finally launched the all-new eighth generation 5 Series in India and as mentioned previously, it comes exclusively in the long wheelbase (LWB) format. Brought to the country via the CBU route, the 5 Series LWB is priced at Rs 72.90 lakh (ex-showroom) and will go up against the upcoming Mercedes-Benz E-Class slated to launch in India later this year.
This is the first time the 5 Series LWB is available in a right-hand drive configuration ever since the eighth-gen model made its debut in September last year. Available in a single 530Li M Sport variant, deliveries of the 5 Series LWB will begin from September this year.
BMW 5 Series LWB: Exterior design
At first glance, the new 5 Series LWB impresses with its imposing size, rivalling that of the 7 Series. BMW proudly claims it as the largest sedan in its class, boasting dimensions of 5,175mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,520mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,105mm. This surpasses the upcoming next-gen Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB, which measures 5,092mm in length, 1,880mm in width, 1,493mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,094mm.
Visually, the 5 Series LWB features an updated all-black kidney grille, now illuminated and framed by golden bezels. The front bumper exudes sportiness with its large all-black air dam vents and sleek side skirtings adorned with gloss black accents. The side profile is clean and understated, solidifying its position as a luxury sedan rather than a sports sedan. The vehicle rides on 18-inch star-pattern alloy wheels, adding to its refined appearance.
A notable design element is the coupe-like sloping roofline, which injects a hint of sportiness into the overall design. The embossed ‘5’ on the C-pillar ensures that the vehicle’s identity as a 5 Series is unmistakable, despite its substantial size. At the rear, the sleek wraparound tri-LED taillights take centre stage, complemented by a sporty rear bumper housing an all-black diffuser, quad-tip exhaust, and golden bezels that echo the front grille’s design.
BMW 5 Series LWB: Interiors & Features
The cabin interior of the 5 Series LWB exudes a sense of modernity and sophistication, featuring a multi-layered dashboard with a harmonious blend of soft-touch and hard plastic surfaces. Ambient lighting adds to the airy ambiance, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The dashboard is home to the innovative twin-screen setup, comprising a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, both powered by the BMW 8.5 OS.
The interior is upholstered in premium Tan Brown leatherette seats, while the M Sport package adds a sleek three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel. The centre console boasts an all-black piano finish, although it may appear slightly cluttered. However, the showstopper is the elegant rotary crystal knob, which intuitively controls the infotainment menus.
Notable features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging in both front and rear compartments, four-zone climate control, and an exceptional 18-speaker Bowers and Wilkins audio system. Additionally, the vehicle offers ventilated and powered front seats with memory function, USB-C charging ports, and advanced Level 2 ADAS. While a rear seat entertainment package is not standard, individual cushions provide comfort for rear occupants.
BMW 5 Series LWB: Powertrain specs
Powering the BMW 5 Series LWB is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which dishes out 255 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque. This motor is paired with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission which sends power to the rear wheels. The engine is further linked with a 48V mild-hybrid assist which pushes out an additional boost of 11 horses and 25 Nm.
As for performance, BMW sprints from 0 to100 kmph in 6.5 seconds and can clock a top speed of 250 kmph. Besides the additional boost in performance, the new 5 Series gets adaptive suspension and multiple drive modes in order to cater different driving conditions.
