New BMW 5 Series: pictures, specs, prices

BMW has revealed the new 5 Series ahead of it reaching showrooms in early 2017. The mid-size executive saloon will more efficient and packed with tech. Prices will start from £36,025, although cheaper models are expected to be introduced from mid-2017.

The 2017 BMW 5 Series will rival the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 and feature significant upgrades in tech and economy, with 520d versions (£36,025) returning an official 108g/km of CO2 and 68.9mpg. Petrol buyers can opt for the fuel sipping 530i – priced from £40,120, with claimed economy ranking at 51.4mpg and 126g/km of CO2.

The 190PS 520d is available with a six-speed manual an eight-speed automatic gearbox, with both delivering power to the rear-wheels and covering 0-62mph in under eight seconds. The 252PS 530i is only available as an auto and will reach 62mph from a standstill in around six seconds.

The 5 Series is also available as the 265PS 530d (£43,835) with claimed economy of 62.8mpg and 118g/km of CO2. The four-wheel drive 340PS 540i xDrive (£46,645) will officially return 40.9mpg and emit 159g/km of CO2.

As well as being cheaper to run, the 5 Series gets LED headlights as standard, larger front grille and more interior space for up to five adults. Standard equipment levels for entry-level SE trim is generous, with 17-inch alloy wheels, built-in navigation, two-zone climate control and cruise control all included at no extra cost. M Sport trim adds 19-inch alloy wheels, larger bumpers and side skirting. 

BMW claims the new 5 Series will be more driver friendly than ever before, with easier to use infotainment, thanks to a large 10-inch colour touchscreen with DAB audio and a simplified menu system. Wireless charging for mobile devices and better Bluetooth connectivity are also promised. 

As in the old 5 Series, the majority of in-car controls will be operated by BMW's iDrive system, via a rotary dial on the centre console, but gesture control will also be offered and allow the occupants to change audio volume or answer calls with a simple hand gesture. 

There will also be a broad range of autonomous driving aids, with a remote car parking function that will allow the driver to get out of the car and reverse it via the key fob. Active cruise control with stop and go will also be available, allowing the car to automatically crawl through traffic without the driver having to touch the throttle or brake.