2012 BMW 5 Series range updated

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By Alborz Fallah | October 13th, 2011

BMW Australia has released details of the upcoming 2012 BMW 5 Series range set for launch in November. The range will see the introduction of the BMW 520i as the entry model ($77,900) with engine and equipment changes to the 528i as well as upgrades for the 535d, 535i and 550i.

The BMW 528i will have its six-cylinder engine replaced with a new four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo two-litre petrol engine, an uprated version of the one found in the 520i, delivering 180 kW (5,000-6,500 rpm) and 350 Nm of torque (1,250-4,800 rpm).

When it comes to performance, going from a six to a four-cylinder engine has had the opposite effect as the new 528i is actually faster than before. Now accelerating from 0-100km/h in a very sporty 6.3 seconds (0.4 seconds faster than the six-cylinder 528i).

The 528i’s fuel consumption figures have also dropped to 6.7L/100km (below the luxury car tax threshold) meaning prices now start from $98,200 (previously $99,900). BMW has added dynamic driving control, ECO PRO mode, electric seat adjustment, professional navigation system, automatic start/stop function and on-board internet functionality as standard equipment for no extra cost.

If you want a diesel, the entry model 520d now retails for $80,700 (previously $83,300) and sips just 4.7L of diesel per 100km. Our favourite in the range, the 3.0-litre twin turbo 535d (now $120,900), has seen its power increase to 230kW meaning it now accelerates from 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds and yes it’s a diesel, so fuel consumption remains at a ridiculously low 5.6L/100km. What other car can you think of that can do the 0-100km/h dash in 5.5 seconds or less and uses just 5.6L/100km?

For those still stuck in the old ways demanding a powerful petrol, the 535i is the one to go for, now retailing for $115,600 and hitting 100km/h from a standstill in 5.9 seconds.

If you simply can’t wait for the new BMW M5, the current range-topping TwinPower turbo V8 petrol 550i sedan still remains at the same price point ($179,900) but gains about $3,000 worth of added features.

BMW Australia has also added its new Active Protection safety system to the 2012 range. The safety package quickly initiates protective measures for occupants when it detects an accident is imminent. This means belt tensioning, closing the windows and sunroof as well as positioning the front-passenger backrest to a crash-optimised location.

The 2012 BMW 5 Series update is certain to entice even more interest in the German offering, with the outgoing model already the best selling car in its segment (37 percent marketshare).

Car Fanatic

That 535d is a beast. Now if the Government would lower the LCT so we could all benefit from frugal luxury cars!
vx

If LCT is lower, why would people opt for local built luxury models?

Karl

What do you mean? All cars (including locally produced cars) pay LCT. It’s not an import tariff.
Don

Even local manufactured car does not get exempt from LCT. That is how stupid the LCT is.. Also, not raising the threshold that was set a decade ago is even stupider.

Crummydore

These cars look great in the flesh!

Hmmm, need a pay rise!
Matty B

It’s one of the few things BMW do that I really disagree with, bringing out an all new model, then updating to a completely new motor in 12 months time. They did the same thing with the E90 330i. Bought out the 335i then the 330 is worth nearly the same as a 325, problem is though nobody wants them when the 335 is so much better. Surely they have engine development schedules out more than 12 months. Either stick with the current 528 six cylinder for another 2 years or don’t bring the model out so soon.

aussieitalian

I have to agree, and point out that with fashion accessories (which is what BM primarily are) they will tend to age quickly, especially when next season is released. Bavarian Motor Works seem to look dated after a couple of years, whereas the other marques age gracefully.

scooter

So aussieitalian, are ferrari, Alfa, Maserati just fashion accessories too ?

Steve

Prefer previous 5 series front end to these. Obviously a great drive but Gone soft with the flair.

Matty B

Yeah but you can’t win, the previous 5/6/7 all copped so much flack for being too out there. Now they’ve gone too much the other way. I personally like the styling on their new sedans, but I do miss the distinction.
Bangel

YES mr bangle’s previous 5 series was his best effort , still look the business , park next to M every day and its still a fresh hard edged design , now you see his flair aped on many cars , inc MB .

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1285962287 Declan Collins

I really don’t like replacing the silky smooth 3.0 I6 for a turbo 4 banger. The I6 is BMW.

I also don’t think you can say that the 535i is the old ways, some people, myself included simply prefer the higher revving petrol motors to these new diesels. In saying that the 535d is extremely impressive.
Phil

Hmmmmmmmm, so in the BMW 528i you get 180KW constant from 5000-6500 rpm/350 Nm of torque 1250-4800 rpm and it uses 6.7L\100km

Meanwhile over at Ford Australia, Falcon fans are holding their breath for the ECOboost with its 177KW/320NM Falcon that uses 8.5L\100km (and this is supposed to be competitive at a global level without considering price!).