Munich. As in the year before, the BMW 5 Series (combined fuel consumption: 9.9–4.5 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 232–119 g/km) was the top-selling business model of 2013. 366,992 customers worldwide opted for a BMW 5 Series Sedan, BMW 5 Series Touring or BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo. This once again puts the BMW 5 Series well ahead of the competition. A key factor contributing to this success was the model revision of the BMW 5 Series in 2013, featuring an extended range of engines, numerous additional equipment items and the extensive BMW ConnectedDrive program.
BMW has once again demonstrated with the 5 Series how a new model can be optimised precisely to match market demand by means of a harmonious package of measures. The model revision selectively refreshed the exterior design of the entire BMW 5 Series family, thereby enhancing its overall presence. With its newly designed rear, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo also offers a luggage compartment expanded by 60 litres to 500 litres. What is more, the two equipment lines Luxury Line and Modern Line along with the M Sport package allow each BMW 5 Series to be given an even more marked touch of individual flair.
The interior also presents refined premium ambience combined with enhanced functionality. The user-friendly iDrive Controller is fitted in all models as standard, while Control Display features a chrome trim surround. In conjunction with the Professional navigation system, the iDrive Touch Controller increases operating convenience. Its integrated touchpad allows letters for text entry – for a navigation destination, for example – to be typed simply using one finger.
As of July 2013 the engines are faster, more economical, cleaner and more efficient. They cover the output range from 105 kW/143 bhp to 412 kW/560 bhp, with all engines meeting the EU6 exhaust emissions standard (M5: EU5). The BMW 518d (fuel consumption urban/extra urban/combined: 5.4/4.0/4.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 119 g/km) and 520d Sedan (fuel consumption urban/extra urban/(combined: 5.4/4.0/4.5 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 119 g/km) have an output of 105 kW/143 bhp and 135 kW/184 bhp respectively, guaranteeing a hallmark brand driving experience with a fuel consumption of just 4.5 l/100 km.
All BMW 5 Series models benefit from the EfficientDynamics measures package. This includes brake energy recuperation, automatic engine start/stop function, shift point display and ECO PRO mode as well as coasting function with disconnected drivetrain (in conjunction with automatic transmissions), providing a dynamic driving experience that always goes hand in hand with a high level of fuel efficiency. In the diesel models, the standard BMW BluePerformance Technology reduces nitrogen oxide emissions.
Further enhanced safety is provided by modern assistance and safety systems such as full LED headlamps and BMW Night Vision with person and animal detection as well as Dynamic Light Spot. The dazzle-free high beam assistant ensures excellent visibility in the dark by making more use of the high beam. A camera fitted in the base of the interior mirror monitors the area in front of the car, effectively detecting vehicles ahead and oncoming traffic. At the same time, selective and dynamic covering of the headlamps reliably avoids dazzling traffic in spite of the high beam being switched on, and the side area in front of the car is fully illuminated. Standard features: Intelligent Emergency Call automatically alerts the BMW Call Centre via a permanently installed SIM card for rapid assistance.
The traffic jam assistant and parking assistant with longitudinal and lateral guidance for the Sedan and Touring enhance convenience in the BMW 5 Series. Based on radar and camera data, the traffic jam assistant supports the driver in slow-moving traffic. Up to speeds of 40 km/h, the system regulates the car’s distance from other road users as well as keeping it in the centre of the lane. The new parking assistant detects vacant parking spaces parallel to the road, steers the car into them automatically and also shifts between forward and reverse gear.
As one of the leading automobile manufacturers when it comes to networking driver, car and environment, BMW also offers a uniquely extensive range of mobility and other services with BMW ConnectedDrive. The Online Entertainment system draws on music providers such as rara to offer an unlimited selection from over 22 million tracks. The Concierge Service puts the driver through to the BMW Call Centre, making it possible to place a reservation at a restaurant, book tickets for a concert or find out where the nearest emergency pharmacy is located. Another exceptional feature is the dictation function for convenient entry of texts or e-mails during travel. RTTI (Real Time Traffic Information) was recently awarded a prize by car magazine editors: this system processes data in real time so as to be able to recommend alternative routes.