BMW has added the first model in its highly-anticipated next-generation 5 Series to its South African configurator, setting the benchmark of what consumers can expect to pay for the incoming sedan.
The model in question is the entry-level 520d, which will retail from R1,247,894 when it arrives on our shores in the near future, as it was previously confirmed that the 5 Series would begin deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2023.
The German automaker also plans to introduce two plug-in hybrid units and the new flagship battery-electric i5, but the pricing for these options has not yet been revealed.
What to expect
The 520d is equipped with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel drivetrain, which provides the upmarket sedan with 145kW and 400Nm.
What’s more, the 5 Series range will now be equipped with 48V mild-hybrid technology which, in addition to making the car run more smoothly, contributes its own 8kW and 25Nm to the total output.
All of this is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which lets the BMW race from 0 to 100km/h in a respectable 7.3 seconds before hitting its cap at 233km/h.
Even with this performance, it has a listed fuel consumption of between 5.1 and 5.6l/100km thanks to its diesel powertrain and hybrid assistance.
Other improvements to the high-end vehicle include a visual overhaul that has widened the brand’s signature kidney grille, and added new LED headlights and daytime running lights.
The light-alloy wheels now start at 18 inches in diametre, and the exterior has been spiced up thanks to new chrome accents and black side skirts.
Importantly, the sedan is longer than it was before, increasing in length by 97mm to reach 5,060mm, 32mm in width to reach 1,900mm, and 36mm in height to reach 1,515mm.
The biggest change to the interior is a new curved media system that comprises a 12.3-inch digital driver display, as well as a 14.9-inch infotainment system, which operates on the manufacturer’s most recent iDrive 8.5 operating system (OS).
This lets owners access functions like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, onboard navigation, voice assist, over-the-air updates, and even online video streaming services.
The sport seat upholstery now comes standard in Veganza leather, and other features include a 360-degree camera, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and cruise control.
The configurator also lists a number of optional extras, such as the R70,000 Deluxe package which adds a sky roof, ambient lighting, front comfort seats, and four-zone automatic climate control.
Another option is a R35,000 M Carbon Exterior package, which replaces certain body-coloured components like the door mirrors with carbon fibre bits.
The R40,000 Equipment Package Professional pack adds adaptive LED headlights, an improved BMW Live Cockpit driver display, an interior camera, and a parking assist programme, while the R35,000 M Sport Pro package lets people choose from a pool of add-ons, including a rear M spoiler, a Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins stereo, and M Sport brake calipers in red or blue.
The M Sport pack also includes a glow effect for the kidney grille, “shadow line” LED inserts for the headlights, and M-branded seatbelts.
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