2011 BMW 5-Series

Homer008 submitted on 03/30/2008 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 12:21 AM
from: www.edmunds.com

[68] user comments | category: Spy Shots

Tags: 5-Series

5-Series

2011 BMW 5-Series

Winter testing is in full swing and our spy photographers' latest catch is the 2011 BMW 5 Series. We've seen test mules on the streets of Germany before, so the prototypes caught in the Arctic Circle unsurprisingly look much the same. With such heavy camouflage, there isn't much to see, but we're not expecting big changes in the styling department anyway.

Unlike the current BMW 5 Series that ushered in a whole new design language, the next-generation car (known internally as F10) will likely soften the current model's lines instead of reinventing them. The overall size of this prototype doesn't appear substantially different, so we don't expect any major changes in terms of passenger room either.

Most of the upgrades to this new midrange sedan will be hidden under the sheet metal. There's a good chance we'll see top-of-the-line versions of the 2011 BMW 5 Series that feature the same twin-turbo V8 introduced in the 2009 BMW X6. With 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, the 4.4-liter V8 should give the 2011 550i more than enough power to hang with its German competition. Some rumors also suggest that an eight-speed automatic transmission will be introduced.

On the tech side, this 5 Series will be the third car in the BMW lineup to use FlexRay technology for the vehicle's internal control systems. The system is designed to allow much faster communications among all the various vehicle systems.

FlexRay was first introduced by the new-generation X5, although only the vehicle's electronic damping control system exploits the faster processing speed. The upcoming 2010 BMW 7 Series is expected to use FlexRay technology for at least a dozen systems, so the 5 Series will most likely go even further. Expect to see even more driver adjustability built into the car as well as additional integration among systems like Active Steering Control, Electronic Differential Control and the usual traction and stability control systems. Hopefully it will add up to a sedan that's more fun to drive instead of one that feels constrained by too many computer controls.

Expect to see the official debut of the 2011 BMW 5 Series at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show, with U.S. sales beginning a year or so after.

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Matthew1 - 3/30/2008 3:21:44 AM

+11 Boost

"I didn't think they could make the 5 series any uglier but they just might..."

You make this claim based on zero evidence?

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Kinger - 3/30/2008 10:24:32 AM

+7 Boost

And zero appreciation for modern forward-thinking styling also...

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1995e34 - 3/30/2008 11:15:21 AM

+1 Boost

the current 5 series is the best thing modern automotive design has to offer today. i can be quite old fashion and live in yesterday, but if after 5 years this styling is still too much for you, i recommend you find a spot in a nursing home.

b.t.w., everyone i know that bitched about the styling, still wanted one.

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EL34 - 3/30/2008 12:42:47 PM

+8 Boost

Look at GoObama08, he must I asked Pastor Wright to see thru all the camo.

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Auto_expert - 3/30/2008 1:22:48 PM

+6 Boost

BMW broke the mold of stodgy designs of the past when Chris Bangle grabbed the reigns. Since the birth of the automobile, new, radical, "outside-the-box" designs have been criticized for going too far. Yet, this is what drives designers imaginations for the future.

I'm sure BMW will break the mold again only to receive similar criticism. If you want a car design that stuck in the mud just look at Lexus. Their designers are in a perpetual state of catch-up. In fact, you can see BMW's radical designs (ugly, as you say) trickling down to the ENTIRE market. What's that saying about imitation? You know, the about flattery.

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Threepoint1415926 - 3/30/2008 6:50:02 PM

+4 Boost

BMW designs have always been more edgy than their German counterparts. I dont think bangle modernized anything, rather took the company in a different direction, changing their idea of what modern is. Not saying it was good or bad but BMW designs are as true as ever to their design heritage. A BMW will always be more modern than a Mercedes and will always age a little less gracefully.

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kablaam - 3/30/2008 9:37:44 PM

+4 Boost

If you live in America and hate America simple solution........move to Russia.

Yes, that is directed towards you J.O. Wright.

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EL34 - 3/31/2008 12:18:43 AM

+3 Boost

GoObama08, your boy also been known to hang out with Minister Farrakhan.

:-)

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528i - 3/30/2008 3:10:20 AMView My AgentSpace

-6 Boost

whos the benchmark in this class? is it the E class or the 5 series??

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Heyhuub - 3/30/2008 7:27:29 AM

Show Comment -17 Boost

MichaelTaylor - 3/30/2008 7:39:59 AM

Show Comment -22 Boost

bmwdrvr - 3/30/2008 8:48:15 AM

+18 Boost

the lexus gs is far from being a benchmark for anything, the 5 series is the benchmark, and best seller in the states in this class, its the car others use as a judge by "benchmark"

ATrain - 3/30/2008 8:54:07 AM

+13 Boost

MichaelTaylor,

I guess it depends how one would define the class. However, considering the trend toward sporty mid-size luxury sedans, the GS would probably stare at everyone from the bottom of the pile.

Have you ever driven the GS? The steering is far from precise and offers no feedback whatsoever and the suspension has enough roll to prevent any sporty aspirations to be left behind at the first curve...

It is a very elegant, comfortable and smooth automobile so as long as you stick to that definition, I would agree with you.

ATrain - 3/30/2008 8:55:49 AM

+3 Boost

'prevent' should read as 'allow'

Rupert - 3/30/2008 10:03:40 AMView My AgentSpace

+11 Boost

I found the GS cramped and glitzy when I sat in one.
Plus the fact it was pathetic sales (it doesn't sell well even in the US) seems to indicate that many people thing this way.

Htay7500 - 3/30/2008 10:10:42 AM

+10 Boost

Infiniti beats your GS all day.

FactsRule - 3/30/2008 10:30:22 AM

+7 Boost

MichaelTaylor needs to start backing up his comments with facts instead of being the Lexus PR spokesman. Lexus is in no way a class leader in any field with any model. The closest Lexus has would have to be Buick, same ride, quality about the same, and same age demographic.

1995e34 - 3/30/2008 11:05:17 AM

+5 Boost

i really like the infiniti M, but i wouldn't say it's the class leader by any means. more like a strong alternative to the class leader.

and i enjoy the new a6 quite a bit, but a fwd derived car could never lead the segment in anything larger than subcompacts.

so it would be between the E class and the 5 series. I like the 5 series myself, mostly because i can get it with a clutch. i have owned both E and 5, and really, they were quite closely matched. both have a slightly different approach, while offering the pinnacle of excellence in their class.

michaeltaylor must be sterilized. he was raised by wolves.

Matthew1 - 3/30/2008 4:48:29 PM

+8 Boost

MichaelTayler is a troll. Always was.

His posts reek of sarcasm. I'm surprised all you 'savvy' people did not pick up on this a long time ago....

MattB - 3/30/2008 6:59:04 PM

0 Boost

I'm an Infiniti driver and a fan of the Infiniti lineup, but I wouldn't say that the M45 is the class leader (imagine that, someone on this site admitting that their chosen brand ISN'T perfect). The Infiniti M needs more power and another gear in its transmission (its fuel economy is subpar partially due to the 5-speed autobox). The BMW 5 is the class leader in my opinion (and you'll pay a premium price for it), but the Infiniti M is a close second if you're looking for a sport sedan.

Htay7500 - 3/30/2008 7:49:32 PM

+5 Boost

I've never said that the M is the benchmark! :D it just beats the GS in everything! I've never said anything to degrade the E or 5 other than the fact that they look dated.!

MichaelTaylor - 3/31/2008 6:19:53 AM

-4 Boost

I stand by my choice. Lexus GS FTW!

And I am not a troll. Just because I am a passionate Lexus fan doesn't mean I am a troll. Geez.....

ubercool - 3/31/2008 6:45:20 AM

-1 Boost

Jaguar XF

MichaelTaylor - 3/31/2008 8:00:24 AM

-7 Boost

Jaguar is the laughing stalk in this class. Unreliable rebadged Ford cars is what Jaguar is. The XF is a Lexus GS clone too, look at the side profile.

MunichRob - 3/30/2008 5:31:37 AMView My AgentSpace

+5 Boost

I'm going to say the 5-series just because the E-Class is old now & at the end of its model run.

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I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 3/30/2008 7:36:27 AM

+7 Boost

5-Series {With M-Sport Kit} without a doubt is the best Looker in this Sector, And Has the Best Performance L for L.

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amazinBimmer - 3/30/2008 11:22:56 AM

+1 Boost

the mental midgets are here...

Huu.. benchmak.. A6? hahah (passat)
Michael (clayton) taylor .. GS?? hahah (random toyota)

It is the 5 series. Maybe the E class.. but the 5 series will be mentioned more often.

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StickShiftCamry - 3/30/2008 12:41:58 PM

0 Boost

So what if GS is Toyota, I'd rather have a Toyota badge on it, and show what an RWD Toyota can do...

Targa - 3/31/2008 10:44:28 AM

+1 Boost

GS is horrible and should only be compared with the Buick

As for the A6 with quattro is a great car. Not sure I get your pure hate for anything audi, but their AWD is light years ahead of anything with a halodex(sp??) clutch.....

amazinBimmer - 3/30/2008 12:30:07 PM

+5 Boost

see my Bmw analysis on other threads..

every BMW is class leader with the exception of the S class and the Z4 where they rank second.

AND.... M>AMG>RS By t long mile.

Needless to say, they rule the roost.

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S4cabriofoxone - 3/30/2008 11:49:26 PMView My AgentSpace

0 Boost

Are you joking? The 7 Series is at the bottom of the luxobarge class. The only reason I'd consider buying one is if I got a really great deal--otherwise, A8 all the way, or S-Class if I'm feeling cliché.

MunichRob - 3/30/2008 11:55:46 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

"S4" While I don't agree with "amazinbimmer" the 7-series is not at the bottom of the luxo barge. I've only seen the A8 & S-Class place better than the 7, never the LS or XJ...Impressive for the oldest car in its class.

StickShiftCamry - 3/30/2008 12:40:43 PM

-7 Boost

5 Series is too common, I like the 550i cuz it can be had w/ a manual, Other wise LEX GS all the way!!!! GS, arguably one of the best looking sedans in the world. Bring the hate, i'm gettin one.

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JRobUSC - 3/30/2008 1:26:43 PM

+8 Boost

the only people I ever see driving the GS are women or old people, and often it's the daily double -- old women.

I'll never be female and probably won't be around long enough to be old, so the GS is out for me.

StickShiftCamry - 3/30/2008 1:48:27 PM

-4 Boost

Good, so less new GS' around with bags and ultra lip 22"s.

BennyILL - 3/30/2008 1:17:24 PM

+7 Boost

If you find the Lexus GS to be the sexiest sedan out there, you must really love the Maxima. The profile of both cars are damn near identical...

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StickShiftCamry - 3/30/2008 1:49:48 PM

-1 Boost

Lex GS/Toyota Aristo came out w/ that big body design in '91. Nissan needed something to copy.

Milton - 3/30/2008 2:12:35 PM

-4 Boost

Is it possible...is it possible to improve on _perfection_?

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bmwfan1513 - 3/30/2008 3:32:35 PM

+3 Boost

It looks like a small 7 Series. BMW is the best!!!!

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LexusLion - 3/30/2008 4:01:37 PM

-1 Boost

It doesn't look bad but at the same time it doesn't really do anything for me at all. I would definitely take a late-'90s 5-series over it.

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BennyILL - 3/30/2008 5:02:26 PM

-4 Boost

StickShiftCamry - And you would assume the design would evolve through the years.

Either way, Lexus has nothing to worry about. BMW lost its ability to design classy vehicles and now churns out glittered up ugly designs. Cut down on the flash and let the cars performance cover that area.

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S2000VS911 - 3/30/2008 6:22:42 PMView My AgentSpace

-5 Boost

BMW can make new 5 series to two different design but same spec & price - old classic & bangle. At least give customer 2 choice .... in case if somebody or everybody don't like bangle...

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Matthew1 - 3/30/2008 8:56:53 PM

+5 Boost

Well that's a stupid idea. Apart from the fact it would highlight a huge defiency in BMW's styling direction and leadership among its bosses, it would also cost millions more as you would need to have twice as much tooling, testing and development.

kablaam - 3/30/2008 9:31:51 PM

+3 Boost

I'm sorry but those who are saying this car is either beautiful or ugly, how can you tell? You do know that those lights(head/brake lights) are temporary and there just to comply with local laws.

You can vaguely make out lines on the car but that's about it.

To make judgements on whether or not the car is beautiful or not is idiotic based on the information we have thus far.

....... some people just agree to disagree.

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S4cabriofoxone - 3/30/2008 11:53:44 PMView My AgentSpace

+3 Boost

I would say the 5 Series is the class benchmark, but at the same time the midsize class is hardly heated at the moment and it's ripe for a new kid to shake up the scene.

For instance...

A6 - beautifully finished, but overweight, and with no truly desirable engine option below the S6. A6 3.0TDI will hopefully change this.

M - fun and well-equipped, but with a few cheap plastics on the inside and the fact that it doesn't look quite so good anymore.

E - feeling its age. Nice V8, but it's ready for a redesign, inside and out.

GS - not much of a class leader in any respect. Not as luxurious as the A6, not as sporty as the 5 or M, not as elegant as the E. I guess it's reliable.

RL - sad.

It's time for Jaguar and the XF to start stealing sales and wake up the rest.

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EL34 - 3/31/2008 12:19:56 AM

+1 Boost

I agree with S4cabriofoxone.

StickShiftCamry - 3/31/2008 2:40:08 AM

-8 Boost

u agree w/ S4? S4 Just wrote M has cheap plastics, and u agree? GS is pretty sporty for auto. trans. car w/ adjustable stabilizer bar...and tons of motor and suspension upgrades available...

MichaelTaylor - 3/31/2008 6:24:01 AM

-5 Boost

The Lexus GS has the best interior materials by far. In fact I feel that Lexus has the best interiors in every class.

MichaelTaylor - 3/31/2008 6:24:54 AM

-5 Boost

S4cabriofoxone,

E class, 5 series, M and RL are all outdated and lag behind the GS in comfort, performance and handling (except the 5 series which is the benchmark in that department).

S4cabriofoxone - 3/31/2008 1:36:36 PMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

I didn't say I don't like the M. I would consider buying one. The interior is simply not up to par with others in the class.

Regardless of its size, I think of the CTS as a tweener, leaning a bit more to the 3 Series than the 5er.

...And LOL, the GS is not sporty.

StickShiftCamry - 3/31/2008 2:15:13 PM

-1 Boost

GS 460 IS sporty or an auto trans. car w/ adjustable stabilizer & suspension, I have a freakin 5 on lease all it has is stiff suspension and everyone has one, what do u ppl consider sporty??

S4cabriofoxone - 4/1/2008 12:00:35 AMView My AgentSpace

+2 Boost

The GS460 isn't sporty, at least not compared to the 550i, A6 S-Line, E550, XF and M45. It's just fast. So is the Buick LaCrosse Super.

M53R - 4/3/2008 7:55:36 AMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

GS best interior in this class? Your dreaming... You should see the plastic buttons that crack everytime yoy press them.

ubercool - 3/31/2008 6:47:56 AM

-2 Boost

It will take something very special to beat the amazing new Jaguar XF, the XF is the new benchmark in this class.

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fatboi - 3/31/2008 10:10:30 AM

+1 Boost

Chris Bangle has 2 butt's now.

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ubercool - 4/1/2008 5:59:30 PM

+2 Boost

Jaguar XF is hot!!!

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Steve - 4/3/2008 5:12:50 PM

+1 Boost

Camoflage makes for boring picture.

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