Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder Horsepower: 248 Torque: 258 pound-feet Wheelbase: 117.1 inches Length: 194.6 inches Cargo capacity: 18.7 cubic feet Curb weight: 3,878 pounds
The latest version of BMW’ s flagship 5 Series sedan offers the same good looks as the bulkier 7 Series but serves them up in a smaller package with a smaller price tag to match
By Larry Printz
You would be forgiven for wondering if the models are actually new, as the cars don’ t look dramatically different from those that came before. But look closer. The hood is smoother, and the grille is larger. On the side, there’ s a crease that runs the length of the body. Subtle stuff? Perhaps. But in Germany, this constitutes a redesign.
As you’ d expect, BMW’ s midsize sedan is once again offered with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel xDrive – as the automaker calls its patented system – for an extra $ 2,300. While the new 5 Series has dropped 137 pounds through increased use of aluminum, magnesium and high-strength steel, it lacks the 7-Series’ exotic carbon core structure. Still, the models share many other commonalities. Before we get to that, though, a little background is in order. www. society. qa 61