2024 BMW 5 Series (G60) LWB Unveiled Ahead of India Launch; Read Here

Recently, BMW India launched the top-most variant of the all-electric version of the 5 Series, the i5 M60 xDrive. Following the launch of that electric sedan, the Indian division of BMW is set to launch the internal combustion engine (ICE) version on July 24, 2024. 

Currently, our Indian market is the only one with a right-hand drive (RHD) and the first market outside China to receive the long-wheelbase version of the BMW 5 Series. Once launched, it will continue to rival the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (LWB). 

Among the BMW cars in India, the new 5 Series is the third product to have an extended wheelbase, following the 3 Series Gran Limousine (3GL) and 7 Series.  

Design and Dimensions

The eighth-generation BMW 5 Series has a fully reprofiled styling from inside and outside. This sedan incorporates sleekness, at the side and rear, while maintaining a sportiness and aggressive look at the front. The downslope of the roof is also very smooth, which gives a fast-back-like appearance to this vehicle.   

The headlights’ design with integrated blue accents is similar to the 2024 BMW X5 and X3, and other new-age BMWs. In parallel, the showcased illuminated front grille is more upright and wider, but not vertically extended as seen on the new 7 Series. The bonnet, on the other hand, also adds a bit of drama, thanks to the imposing creases. 

Also Read: Fourth-Generation BMW X3 Spotted Ahead of Global Debut

Similar to its elder sibling and the flagship BMW sedan, the new 5 Series also has sleek LED tail lamps. The lower section of the rear bumper is fitted with faux exhaust tips and a diffuser. 

Since the India-bound unveiled product was the M-Sport variant, it had M-specific design elements visible on the front and rear bumpers and the 18-inch alloy wheels. 

(Image Courtesy: Aaradhya Singh | Motoring World)

It is worth noting that the customers will also be able to choose the 19-inch alloy wheels. The showcased version’s wheels were wrapped in the Pirelli P7 Cinturato, having a tyre profile of 225/55 R18 on both ends.  

As for the side profile of the unveiled 530Li M Sport, this trim has exclusive light gold brushed metallic inserts on several parts of the car. Last, but not least, the Hoffmeister Kink near the rear quarter glass has the ‘5’ badge embossed on it. 

In terms of dimensions, the new BMW G60 (or 5 Series) has a length of 5175mm, a width of 1900mm, and a height of 1520mm, and it sits on a wheelbase of 3105mm. These dimensions are greater than the outgoing (W213) and forthcoming E-Class (W214).

In fact, 2024 5 Series LWB is dimensionally bigger than the 2008 7 Series (F01). 

Interior and Offerings

As seen in new-age BMW cars, the new 5 Series also has a dual curved display, comprising a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, supported by BMW’s latest software. 

Additionally, the cockpit borrows design elements from the new 7 Series, such as the ambient lighting’s layout, the design of the 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, the three-spoke M-Sport steering wheel and the design of the vegan-made upholstery. 

(Image Courtesy: CarWale) 

The centre console’s layout, too, resembles, as it includes crystal-finished controls: i-Drive controller and gear shifter. 

However, other notable features are open-pore wood, wireless charging pads (front and rear), USB ports, four-zone HVAC, a panoramic moonroof, and ventilated front seats. There is also connected car technology, a 360-degree camera, park assist, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an electric tailgate release, and electrically adjustable seats, to name a few. 

On the safety front, this saloon has an ADAS suite except for adaptive cruise control, auto high-beam assist, adaptive LED headlights, active cornering lights, rain-sensing wipers, parking sensors (front and rear), etc. 

Powertrains

Considering the pattern of past offerings BMW 5 Series, the new generation is also expected to have petrol and diesel engines. In the petrol category, the 530Li/520Li and in the diesel category, the 520d/530d, are anticipated for the Indian market. 

These powertrain options, however, will continue to work with the 8-speed ZF automatic transmission to make the rear wheels spin (RWD).

In international markets, the standard 5 Series gets an optional xDrive (AWD) configuration. 

Also Read: BMW M5 Officially Teased 

Market Positioning

As mentioned earlier, once this vehicle is launched in India, it will continue to lock horns with its direct and similarly priced competitors.

The former includes rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, etc., while the latter has Mercedes-Benz GLC/GLE, BMW X3/X5/M340i, and Range Rover Evoque, to name a few. 

The variant-wise price list and detailed specifications will be declared on July 24, 2024. 

Also Read: 2024 BMW X5 Facelift Review