Sixth-generation 5 for spring

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BMW has announced details of the new, sixth-generation 5 Series Saloon.

Buyers of the BMW 5 Series Saloon will be able to choose between three diesel powerplants and four petrol engines from launch.

The biggest seller in the UK is predicted to be the 520d. This 1,995cc four-cylinder diesel produces 184bhp at 4,000rpm, accelerates from rest to 62mph in 8.1 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 141mph. Fuel economy is impressive, with a combined fuel consumption figure of 56.5mpg and a CO rating of 132g/km, making the BMW 520d the most efficient car in its segment.

Two straight-six turbocharged engines will complete the diesel line-up – the 530d and the 525d. Both powerplants feature 2,993cc units with an all-aluminium crankcase.

The new 525d sets a new benchmark for efficiency in a six-cylinder diesel with CO emissions of 162g/km and an average fuel consumption of 45.6mpg.

Joining the diesel-powered cars from launch are three straight-six petrol engines – the 523i, 528i and 535i.

The 535i is the first engine to combine a single turbocharged engine with High Precision Direct Injection and VALVETRONIC – BMW’s own system which controls how much the engine’s valves open for optimum efficiency.

These measures allow the engine to meet strict emissions regulations while delivering a 0-62mph time of six seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. Fuel consumption comes in at 33.2mpg on the combined cycle, with CO emissions of 199g/km.

The latest BMW 5 Series Saloon is the first in its class to feature Auto Start-Stop, an eight-speed automatic transmission and a double-wishbone front suspension.

It also has the longest wheelbase in its class, creating a greater feeling of interior space. The BMW 5 Series Saloon features a 520-litre boot with the option to specify 40:20:40 split/folding rear seats.

The use of Black Panel technology on the instrument panel and centre console, as seen in the BMW 7 Series and the 5 Series Gran Turismo, means high-resolution electronic displays are visible when needed but, when not in use, discreetly blend into the centre console.

The new BMW 5 Series Saloon goes on sale March 20, 2010, with prices starting at £27,555.