New BMW 5 Series LWB revealed, likely to come to India

BMW has taken the wraps off the long-wheelbase version of the popular 5 Series, including an electric i5 LWB. The eighth-generation 5 Series was globally unveiled in May this year, and while these LWB models are exclusively for China at the moment, as we've reported before, BMW is expected to bring the LWB 5 Series to India to compete with rival Mercedes-Benz's E-Class LWB.

1. BMW 5 Series available with both ICE and electric powertrains
2. Gets a 31.3-inch screen at the rear, like the 7 Series
3. Illuminated ‘5’ on the C-pillar

BMW 5 Series LWB exterior 

On the outside, the long-wheelbase version of the 5 Series looks similar to the car it’s based on, the G60 5 Series, which did away with the increasingly large grille and split headlamps. The LWB keeps the illuminated grille along with the sleek tail-lamps that have a chrome strip running through them.

Of course, the most prominent change on the outside is the increased length, however, BMW is yet to reveal the exact dimensions. The extension in length is aimed at providing more space and comfort for the rear seat, a place where most chauffeur-driven owners will spend a great amount of time.

The illuminated ‘5’ on the C pillar.

One particular feature of the LWB models is the illuminated ‘5’ on the C-pillar of the new sedans, which will be illuminated in white on the ICE-powered models, while on the i5, it will be blue and pulsate when the car is charging. On the 5 Series models with a standard wheelbase, the ‘5’ is not illuminated, it is just embossed onto the C pillar.

BMW 5 Series LWB interior

Inside the 5 Series long wheelbase, the place that sees the most drastic changes is the second row. The car is aimed at people who spend a great deal of time being driven around, and the brand has equipped the stretched sedan with some additional features to help drive this point home. Creature comforts include 4-zone climate control and upholstery with exclusive quilting and a dual-tone design.

The 31.1-inch screen folds down from the headliner of the car.

One of the stand-out features is the 31.1-inch display that folds down from the headliner of the car to act as an entertainment screen. The 8K resolution screen is compatible with 5G connectivity, and, along with the Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, it allows for an immersive experience on the go.

BMW 5 Series LWB: India launch and rivals 

The 5 Series has not been BMW’s strongest-selling sedan in India with 1,013 units sold in the financial year of 2023 as compared to the 3,438 units of the 3 Series sold during the same time. To counter this, BMW is looking at getting the LWB 5 Series to India to rival the very successful LWB E-Class, which will be replaced by a new-generation model later next year.