The next-generation BMW 5-Series Touring has been spied testing in Scandinavia ahead of a debut sometime later this year.
The new 5-Series, referred to as the ‘G31’ generation of the mid-size luxury saloon, will ride on the same ‘35up’ platform as the recently introduced 2016 BMW 7-Series. The lightweight structure is made out of a blend of high-strength steel and aluminum, along with carbonfibre-reinforced plastic and will play an important role in the construction of all rear-wheel drive BMWs going forward.
As you can see from the photos, the G31 generation 5-Series will feature similarly soft styling as the F10/F11 generation of the car it replaces in order to appeal to customers the world over. Some styling elements will also trickle over, such as the headlights flowing into BMW’s signature kidney grille and the high beltline.
Powertrains for the G31 5-Series will include a 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 3.0-litre inline-six gasoline and diesel versions, along with a plug-in hybrid variant. BMW’s most recent hybrid sedan, the 740e xDrive, utilizes a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to an electric motor housed within the eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering a total output of 321 horsepower.
