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Hot on the heels of the new BMW 5 Series Saloon that goes on sale in March, BMW’s popular Touring model will reach the UK market in September 2010. 

It will be the fourth generation of Touring models in the 5 Series range and brings traditional BMW driving qualities and elegance to those seeking flexibility, adaptability and versatility.  

Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW UK, said: “BMW can fairly claim to have created the idea to turn executive saloon cars into practical yet still fun to drive estates with its first 5 Series Touring in the UK back in 1991. Up until then most large estates were utilitarian load-luggers that eschewed both the driving capabilities of their saloon cousins as well as the style.  The 5 Series Touring changed all that and its success has led to the new fourth generation being unveiled today.

Outside, the roof rails are now finished in matt aluminium, although black high gloss or matt black can be specified at no cost and chromeline exterior window surrounds are now standard. Matt aluminium or high gloss shadowline can be specified optionally.  Park Distance Control, front and rear, and Bluetooth telephone preparation are also now standard for all models while a USB audio interface and ambient lighting are standard for six-cylinder cars.

Space and comfort

The boot capacity of the new Touring is 560 litres, 60 more than the outgoing model, and a huge 1,670 litres with all rear seats folded.  A further option is Extended Storage that includes “cargo” functionality for rear seats.  This allows the rear seat backrests to be fixed in a more upright position thereby increasing luggage capacity by 30 litres and minimising wasted space behind rear seats.  This feature increases normal load capacity to 590 litres as well as adding lashing rails, storage nets and straps.  Naturally, a ski bag is available as an option.

High performance in every aspect     

The 520d Touring accelerates from zero to 62mph in 8.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 138mph.   Sipping fuel at a combined fuel consumption of 54.3mpg and offering a CO2 rating of 137g/km, the BMW 520d Touring is the most efficient car in the executive estate car segment. The silky smooth straight-six turbocharged engine of the 530d Touring ups the diesel ante.  Now equipped with increased power of 245hp at 4,000rpm and with a peak torque of 540Nm from as low as 1,750rpm, the 530d Touring provides more of what enthusiastic customers love. With the introduction of upgraded piezo-injectors, the BMW 530d emits just 165g/km (with automatic transmission), while averaging a combined consumption figure of 44.8mpg. The BMW 530d is capable of accelerating from zero to 62mph in just 6.4 seconds and attaining an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. 

Innovative new optional equipment

The BMW 5 Series Touring can be specified with Park Assist to enhance driver convenience. Once a button on the centre console is pressed ultrasound sensors located in the side indicator surrounds scan the road either side of the vehicle for an appropriate parking space. On location of a suitable free bay the driver then only need operate the accelerator and brake pedals while the Park Assist system swiftly slots the car into the space with ease.

In the UK the BMW 5 Series Touring will be offered with four optional equipment packages. BMW Business Advanced Media and BMW Professional Multimedia packages include BMW Navigation, BMW ConnectedDrive – Assist and Online and Voice control. The Dynamic package includes 19-inch alloy wheels, Sport seats, Anthracite headlining, Sport leather steering wheel and High-gloss exterior trim. The Visibility package includes Adaptive headlights, Xenon headlights, High-beam Assist and headlight wash.

The new 5 Series Touring goes on sale on 18 September, 2010.

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