On the 24th (local time), BMW unveiled the 8th generation of its mid-size sedan, the 5 Series, for the first time. Alongside the internal combustion engine models, the electric vehicle i5 was also introduced. This model has been BMW's flagship since its launch in 1972, with over 80 million units sold worldwide.
The front design features a modern reinterpretation of BMW's iconic double headlights and kidney grille. It also includes the Iconic Glow radiator grille lighting, which was applied to the 7 Series. The body dimensions have increased compared to the previous generation, with length up by 97 mm, width by 32 mm, and height by 36 mm. The wheelbase has also been extended by 20 mm.
The center fascia connects to the driver's seat through a single curved display. The instrument cluster measures 12.3 inches, and the center fascia display is 14.9 inches. Gaming is possible through this display. Media viewing, such as YouTube, is also available via video streaming functionality. The gear selector minimizes physical buttons. The BMW Interaction Bar, featuring a crystal design, is backlit like ambient lighting. For the first time in the 5 Series, fully vegan materials are applied inside. Vegan leather-textured seats are provided as standard in three colors, while Merino leather is available as an option.
The driving assistance system includes Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Additionally, BMW Driving Assistant Professional, automatic parking, and 3D surround view are standard features. Parking Assistant Professional, which allows parking and vehicle control via a smartphone from outside the vehicle, is optional. The QuickSelect function, enabling drivers to instantly choose desired features, and BMW OS 8.5 are also introduced for the first time.
The powertrain options range from mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) to pure electric. The highest-performance top model is the i5 M60 xDrive. It is equipped with two electric motors, one on each axle, delivering a maximum output of 601 horsepower and peak torque of 83.6 kg·m. According to WLTP standards, it can travel 516 km on a single charge. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.
The rear-wheel-drive model i5 eDrive40, equipped with a single motor, produces a maximum output of 340 horsepower and peak torque of 43 kg·m. Its 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time is 6 seconds. The maximum driving range per charge (WLTP standard) is 582 km.
All internal combustion engine models feature 48V mild hybrid technology. The 520i is powered by a 4-cylinder gasoline engine with a maximum output of 208 horsepower. The 520d comes with a 197-horsepower diesel engine. The PHEV model will be revealed later.
The fully redesigned BMW 5 Series will be officially launched in Korea in October this year.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
![15-Year Veteran Field Mechanic Becomes AI Talent... Korean Air's Experiment [AI Era, Jobs Are Changing]](https://cwcontent.asiae.co.kr/asiaresize/319/2025121111232252273_1765419802.jpg)
