Full photos and details have been leaked ahead of schedule concerning the production version of BMW's upcoming 5 Series Gran Turismo. Attempting to combine a grand touring sports coupe, sports activity vehicle, and luxury sedan in one vehicle, the newest addition to the 5 Series features few exterior changes from the concept version we saw at this year's Geneva Auto Show.
Power will come from BMW's twin-turbo V-8 producing 400 hp - good enough for a 5.4-sec. dash from 0 to 60 mph. The engine will be mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic gearbox, capable of delivering the engine's 450 lb-ft of torque reliably. The transmission features a taller top gear than BMW's more common six-speed gearbox, giving reduced fuel consumption and quieter cruising. Regenerative braking is also on the menu, allowing the alternator to remain disengaged from the engine most of the time for improved efficiency. BMW expects a top speed of 150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package which includes high-speed tires. Vehicles equipped with the standard all-season tires will be limited to 130 mph for reasons of safety, claims BMW.
Style-wise, the distinct "Hofmeister Kink" remains intact in six-window form, with its characteristic upswept tail at the rear three-quarter window. Both upper and lower side character lines are also remain; the upper being a sharp crease along the door handle lines that extends from headlights to taillights, and the lower being a softer scallop beginning halfway along the front fender and terminating at the rear door's trailing edge. Front and rear valances were also left largely alone, with a stout, vertical nose and L-shaped, wraparound taillights. The gently rearward-sloping roofline culminates in a similar upswept tail to the concept version, although the fin-like antenna has been moved from the subtle roof spoiler to just aft of the standard panoramic sunroof.
As expected, larger changes are to be found inside. Gone is the concept's keystone center console that extended from front cabin to rear as a singular shared element. Thankfully, the scalloped rear ceiling remains, giving occupants a touch more headroom to compensate for the car's sloped rear roof. In standard configuration, the 5 Series GT seats five, although an optional extra includes two individual reclining rear seats separated by a tall, stubby center console with cupholders and a storage compartment. All seating is higher from the ground than in typical BMWs in order to provide better exterior visibility for all occupants, as well as easy ingress and egress to the vehicle.
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept's two-piece dual-opening trunk has survived the cut and will live on in the production version. Access to the trunk is given either by lifting the entire rear hatch, or by opening a panel under the rear glass, as one would a trunk lid. The trunk assembly is constructed of aluminum, as are the vehicle's doors and many suspension components, in an effort to save weight.
BMW expects the 5 Series Gran Turismo's world premiere to be at the Frankfurt show this September, and the first production models should arrive at U.S. showrooms in the fourth quarter of this year, as 2010 models. The vehicle's MSRP, though not finalized, is planned to start in the $65,000 to $70,000 range. For more information, be sure to stay tuned for our First Look article, but meanwhile, have a glance at the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept here.
Thanks to: Motor Trend.
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