The new BMW 5 Series has been unveiled, featuring refreshed styling, an optional electric i5 version, and a groundbreaking update to its in-car entertainment system.
The exterior of the new 5 Series boasts a sharp design and an imposing kidney grille, but it’s the interior that captures the most attention. A 12.3-inch information screen sits behind the steering column, and a massive curved 14.9-inch infotainment control display offers gaming capabilities akin to a PS5-style console.
BMW partnered with entertainment experts at AirConsole to bring this user-friendly and enjoyable technology to the cabin. When the car is stationary, occupants can access the console app and choose from a variety of games, including quizzes, driving games, and football, all at the touch of a button.
There’s no need to pack additional controllers, as all games are playable using a smartphone. Connecting is easy with a QR code that appears on the screen, enabling seamless Bluetooth pairing with both iPhones and Android devices. The display also supports multiplayer competition modes.
The initial launch will include around 13 titles, such as Go Kart Go, Golazo, Music Guess, and Overcooked. Free to use at first, a subscription fee is expected for those who wish to continue gaming. More titles are planned for future updates.
This technology is not functional while the 5 Series is in motion, but BMW envisions it as a fun way to pass the time during stationary periods, such as while recharging the electric version.
The new BMW 5 Series also includes an Interaction Bar below the instrument panel, allowing users to control air conditioning and ventilation without navigating through multiple screen settings. Full ambient lighting adjusts based on in-car activities.
Additional features include a Harmon Kardon 12-speaker surround sound system and an EfficiencyCoach to help drivers optimize their driving efficiency.
The fully electric eDrive40 version of the new 5 Series offers over 300 miles of range and a 0-62 mph acceleration time of just 6 seconds. The M60 xDrive model boasts an even faster time of under 4 seconds. Prices for the entry-level petrol 520i start from £49,850 and rise to over £73,000 for the electric version.
The new BMW 5 Series is expected to hit the roads later this year.
