The very first prototypes of the seventh-generation BMW 5-series have hit the road in Germany ahead of a planned arrival in international showrooms by early 2016. There is not much information available on the styling front, however, an evolutionary approach looks set to keep it close to its predecessor in size.

Not to be mistaken with the 5-series facelift that will soon hit our shores, the next-generation 5-series will be about 4910mm long, 1875mm wide and 1470mm tall. As with today’s 5-series, the new model will be sold internationally in three body styles: saloon, Touring and Gran Turismo liftback.

The new BMW 5-series has been conceived around a lightly modified version of the high-strength steel monocoque platform structure used by the existing 5-series.

But in a programme that will affect all future BMW models, engineers are planning measures that will enable the new car to shed up to 100kg. Insiders say that the move will allow the entry-level 520i to weigh less than 1500kg.