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