The new BMW 5 Series Sedan and the i5’s long wheelbase variant (G68) for China have been recently revealed by the German luxury automaker. The new 5 Series and i5 have an expanded wheelbase and are tailored to suit the preferences of Chinese drivers, just like previous BMW offerings. Furthermore, China is the sole market where the sedan will be offered in its long-wheelbase variant. Several industry reports suggest the LWB variant can make its way to our home market next year, making India the only country other than China to get the model. Once it arrives, the car will compete with the E-Class LWB from Mercedes-Benz. For the uninitiated, in May this year, the eighth-generation 5 Series made its global debut. The Dadong facility in Shenyang of BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. – a joint venture between BMW and Brilliance Automotive – will solely build the latest versions of the cars for the Chinese market.
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2024 BMW 5 Series, i5: Exterior
The BMW 5 Series keeps the same classic appearance as the regular 5 Series car with respect to the design. The elongated kidney grille, with vertical slats and a bronze contour, smoothly blends with the new interpretation of BMW's twin headlights on this model. The coupe-like side form is still present, but there is a significantly wider rear door, giving passengers more space. One special feature, which is only present in the Chinese market, is the illuminated numeral ‘5’ positioned atop the Hofmeister kink. Notably, this numerical emblem assumes subtle and rhythmic bule pulsation during the battery charging process in the new BMW i5. However, for other engine configurations, the numeric emblem emits a clean white glow.
The car's measurements have not yet been officially revealed by the German carmaker. Given that the new 5 Series has a wheelbase of 2,995mm and the previous G38 5 Series LWB featured a 3,105mm long wheelbase (130mm longer than the regular wheelbase), the new LWB's wheelbase may stand around 3,200mm.
2024 BMW 5 Series, i5: Interior and Features
Compared to models from other markets, the interior of the China-bound model has also undergone minor modifications. It continues to have the sizable BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8.5 but with a Chinese-specific user interface overlay. Moreover, the BMW Interaction Bar remains in place and so do the flat-bottom steering wheels. Crafted Clarity glass accents are effectively integrated into several of the controls, boosting both the aesthetic appeal and tactile feel, thereby improving the interior setting. The passenger-side instrument panel features a unique Titanium Bronze inlay, which adds a sense of exclusivity.
Now, the BMW Theatre Screen is only available in the long-wheelbase BMW 5 Series and the i5 vehicles, just like the BMW 7 Series sedans. Multiple streaming services are supported via the 31.3-inch screen's 8K resolution and 5G connection. The remarkable Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System is combined with the BMW Theatre Screen. The rear is also enhanced by features such as a 4-zone automatic climate control system, which provides each passenger with a personalised environment. Notably, this long-wheelbase 5 Series stands out from other models, thanks to the two-tone leather and distinctive headrest design.
2024 BMW 5 Series, i5: Mechanical Details
The brand hasn't yet disclosed the powertrain specifications for the China-bound 5 Series LWB. Nonetheless, it is likely to include the 520i and 530i petrol and diesel versions. The 81.2kWh battery pack in the BMW i5 LWB is available in the eDrive40 and M60 versions. However, it remains to be seen if China will get this precise specification.
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BMW India Clocks Best-ever Half-yearly Sales in 2023
BMW Group India has released sales figures for the first half of 2023. From January to June 2023, the firm sold 5,867 automobiles (BMW and Mini), registering a 5% increase over the 5,570 units sold in the same period in the previous year. BMW alone delivered 5,476 vehicles, representing a 5.5% rise from January to June of 2022. Mini sales also increased by 3% to 391 units. The company additionally claimed that Mini sales increased in the second quarter of 2023, including the month of June. The Mini sold 219 units in the second quarter of 2023, with 92 units shipped in June.
The manufacturer has also revealed that by the end of June 2023, it received 8,000 orders, with 2,500 units yet to be delivered. The maker reported a 50% increase in two-wheeler sales, totalling 4,667 units. During this time period, the G3 10R, G310RR, and G310 GS accounted for over 90% of all BMW Motorrad sales. For those who are unaware, the automotive behemoth sells motorcycles under the moniker BMW Motorrad.
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