BMW readies next-gen 5-series lineup

BMW has begun work on the seventh generation 5-series range. The new executive contender is slated for sale globally by the end of 2016.

The mid-range model will be comprehensively redesigned for its 44th year of production with a sophisticated new platform, a wider choice of petrol, diesel and hybrid powerplants and new 48-volt electrical architecture.

While the heavily clad mules seen testing provide few clues as to the look of the new 5-series, BMW bosses say it will adopt a sleeker appearance than today’s model, with clear influences from the Gran Lusso Coupé concept shown at Ville d’Este in April.

As durability testing begins on public roads, the car’s aero properties are also being trialled on full-scale models in a state-of-the-art wind tunnel at BMW’s Munich R&D centre.

Unconfirmed reports suggest entry-level versions of the next BMW 5-series saloon will boast a Cd of 0.24, bettering the 0.25 figure of today’s 520i (on standard 225/55 R17 tyres) and the latest Mercedes-Benz E-class, which is itself set to be succeeded by an all-new model in 2016. Continued..