Playing the long game

BMW India has decided to give the eighth generation 5 Series the long wheelbase treatment. Dhruv Saxena takes a closer look at the upcoming luxury sedan ahead of its launch

- Dhruv Saxena

Until now, for those focussing on rear seat space, BMW offered the 6 Series GT as an alternative to segment leader Mercedes-Benz E Class. The 5 Series in its standard wheelbase form left buyers looking to be chauffeured around unimpressed with its rear seat. Going forward, much like the 3 Series sold in India, the soon to be launched 5 Series will also be available in a long wheelbase form.

This being an all-new generation means a complete redesign and as has been the BMW way over the last couple of years, the new 5 looks nothing like its predecessors. BMW’s latest design language has resulted in sharper, more angular cuts and creases. There’s a heavily sculpted bonnet with the lines merging with what BMW calls the ‘sharknose’ inspired kidney grille, which also features illumination. Nearly vertical twin LED bars form the DRLs and one of the more eye-catching elements of the exterior is the Titanium Bronze accent for the grille, bumpers and window surround.