2011 BMW 5 Series

The redesigned BMW 5 Series has landed at the 2010 New York International Auto Show, competing with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6 and Infiniti M.

It will be launched in June as the 535i and 550i models, packing a 300-horsepower six-cylinder or a 400-hp V-8, respectively. Both engines have twin turbochargers, and the six now sports BMW's Valvetronic technology for lower-end power delivery than last year's 535i.

Later on next year, a 528i will arrive with a 240-hp, non-turbo six-cylinder to slot in at the bottom of the lineup. BMW says it will also offer versions of all three sedans with its xDrive all-wheel drive. There's no word on a Griswold-ready 5 Series wagon; even if one is made it might not be imported into the U.S.

BMW will pair all three 5 Series engines with its new eight-speed automatic, which is also installed on the 5 Series Gran Turismo hatchback and the V-12 760Li. The automaker will also offer a proper six-speed manual on the 535i and 550i.




BMW officials told us the EPA numbers are in for the 2011 5 Series — and they’re not too shabby. The 535i will get an EPA-certified 20/29 mpg city/highway with an automatic transmission. That’s a full 3 mpg better than the outgoing 535i, and it vaults the car to the front of its class for fuel efficiency. Not bad for a car that’s slightly larger and weighs some 100 pounds more than its predecessor. Credit the new eight-speed automatic as well as the single-turbo Valvetronic six-cylinder, which replaces the twin-turbo six-cylinder on the last 535i yet makes the same 300 horsepower and 300 pounds-feet torque. Spokesman Matt Russell said the new 535i hits 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, which is “almost identical” with the outgoing 535i.

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