With its chief-rival, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, having already been introduced, BMW is moving full force with the development of the sixth-generation 5-Series that will be available in both sedan and station wagon (Touring) forms. Our spy photographers captured a prototype version of the 5-Series Touring on public roads covered in a coat of riveted dummy panels. While it is extremely difficult to make any assumptions for the car's styling other than it will boast the latest interpretation of BMW's twin-kidney grille that has evidently grown in size, it is apparent that the Touring variant will retain the somewhat conservative shape of the current model.
Our inside sources state however that the new 5-Series will take several design cues from the all-new 7-Series (see high-res photos and details here) that was unveiled in the summer of 2008. This means that BMW's executive model will most likely be less controversial, with its harder angles smoothed off, and in the case of the saloon, with a less provocative (Bungle) bootie.
It is expected that the new 5-Series will grow a few inches in length and width thus improving passenger and luggage space. Despite being a bit bigger than the current model, weight saving measures that will include the extended use of aluminum body parts will help keep the mass low.
The new 5-Series will be offered with a wide variety of gasoline engines including naturally aspirated and turbocharged inline-six cylinder units and a twin-turbo V8 as well as 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder turbo diesels. As for the highly anticipated M5 that will once again be available in sedan and Touring bodystyles, it is almost certain that BMW will ditch the current 507 HP 5.0-liter V10 and replace it with an even more powerful, yet lighter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
The new 5-Series is due to hit showrooms around the world in 2010.
