BMW used the New York International Auto Show to showcase some of their most recent accomplishments. However the M3 Concept Car that was released at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show did not make an appearance. The Hydrogen 7 was also noticeably absent. But, have no fear, BMW still represented with the M5, M6, 535i, and 550i to name a few.
Featured: The BMW 5 Series
The new BMW 5 Series offers a wide range of innovations in driver assistance and comfort features. It is the only car in its segment available with Active Steering, BMW Night Vision, a Head-Up Display and, from now on, Active Cruise Control featuring a Stop & Go functions as well as Lane Departure Warning. Featured as standard equipment is iDrive control, with no less than six freely programmable memory buttons as well as an optionally available navigation system with voice control and full-word entry, enhancing the driving comfort of the BMW 5 Series to a new, unprecedented level.
The diverse line-up of powerplants in the BMW 5 Series has now been enhanced by newly developed straight-six engines which offer superior power, while taking the lead in terms of fuel economy in all performance classes. The engines are mated to a choice of superb transmissions, including a six-speed manual as well as a quick and precise six-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s new and unique Sport Automatic Transmission with shift paddles. The six-cylinder engine variants of the new BMW 5 Series are available with BMW xDrive permanent and variable all-wheel-drive technology.
The 5 Series has a sleeker, more stretched appearance on the side, an effect produced by an additional light contour along the side-sills. The rear is dominated by horizontal lines highlighting the look of superior power. Like the headlamps at the front, the rear lights also come in a new, sophisticated clear glass design and now feature LED direction indicators.
Enhanced control comfort, new design and particularly sophisticated materials on the surfaces give the interior of the new BMW 5 Series a new standard of quality the driver and passengers will see and feel at first sight, ensuring superb driving pleasure at all times. High-class Pearl Gloss Chrome, the comfortable padding on the armrests and center console and the two-tone finish of the door panels all reflect the new interior style. Black door trim bars and a lower panel section in the interior color take up the appearance and materials used on the dashboard. The resulting harmony of design underscores the atmosphere of relaxed comfort of the interior environment, as do the dynamic waves of the lines and forms of the door panels. The buttons for the window lifts and mirror adjustment have been integrated into the armrest, just as the handles for closing the doors have been optimized in their ergonomic design. Storage space has been increased with larger door pockets and with an open tray in the center console. The elegant and ergonomic design of the gear selector lever for the automatic transmission merges perfectly with the BMW 5 Series stylish interior.
Control of the iDrive vehicle management system has been optimized to an even higher standard. Menu guidance and graphics have been refined. Six freely programmable favorite buttons permit direct access to important functions. At the touch of a button, for example, a stored destination, a frequently dialed telephone number, or a preferred radio station can be called up.
The new BMW 5 Series will be available this month.
Photo Gallery: BMW Showcase At The NYIAS