As with every new BMW 5-Series that’s launched, the vaunted wagon (or Touring, depending on which side of the globe you’re from) has always followed its sedan brother. The latest generation 5-Series is no exception, with the market launch coming in March at the Geneva Motor Show.
It’s been roughly 25 years since the 5-Series Wagon entered the scene. Since then, it has won the hearts of customers, especially in the European market where such body styles are considered chic and practical at the same time. This latest model is no different, with the flowing lines and roof line that make for excellent space and a truly stylish look.
Up front, the trademark kidney grille is flanked by LED headlamps that convey the contemporary BMW face. The side profile shows the characteristic feature line and the flowing long roof. This is capped off by the L-shaped taillights that dominate the rear.
Inside, the modern yet still classic BMW business-like cockpit is there with its driver-centric vibe. What sets the BMW 5-Series Wagon apart is of course, the space that the large loading area and 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats offers. Owners can load gear from as little as 120kg to 730kg, depending on the variant. Then there is the 570-1,700mm loading space, perfect for all sorts of stuff. Add to this a hands-free tailgate and other convenience features and you’ve got one flexible hauler.
Of course, hauling isn’t the only thing the BMW wagon is good for. It is still the Ultimate Driving Machine that provides sheer driving pleasure. At launch, BMW will offer four TwinPower-equipped engines to suit every driving style. The 530i Touring’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor puts out 252hp and 350Nm, mated to an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox. This is good for a 6.5-second 0-100kph sprint. Those that want more power can opt for the 3.0-liter in-line six found in the 540i Touring. This, along with Intelligent all-wheel drive, helps bring out the most of the 340hp and 450Nm that’s good for a 5.1 century-mark run.
Diesel buyers can go for either the 520d Touring, with its 190hp and 400Nm 2.0-liter motor—for a 0-100kph time of 8 seconds, or the potent 3.0-liter straight-six that produces 265hp and a staggering 620Nm. With either rear- or all-wheel drive, this one goes from rest to a hundred in just 5.8 ticks. The former diesel is mated to either a 6-speed manual or the 8-speed box, which it shares with its bigger engine brother.
Naturally, the new BMW 5-Series wagon offers the latest in driver-assistance systems. Stuff like Lane Keep Assist, Cross-traffic alert, and even side collision protection are available, among other goodies. And you’ve also got the latest Heads-up display and other displays that keep you on top of things all the time while still helping you stay focused on the business of driving.
The new BMW 5-Series wagon will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Deliveries will begin in June of this year.
