2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo is the latest addition to this German automaker's midsize car lineup. The Gran Turismo (GT) is a 4-door wagon that shares elements of its basic design with BMW's large 7-Series cars. The GT has a different powertrain and styling when compared with the existing 5-Series wagon. Initially, the 5-Series Gran Turismo comes only as the rear-wheel drive 550i. It's powered by a 400-hp turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that teams with BMW's first 8-speed automatic transmission. Due in calendar 2010 are 535i models powered by BMW's turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive models are also slated for introduction during calendar 2010. This wagon marks the first application of BMW's Brake Energy Regeneration System, which is designed to save fuel by limiting to deceleration or braking the time when the alternator charges the battery. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Available features include BMW's Active Roll Stabilization, which is designed to counteract body lean in turns. Also offered is BMW's Integral Active Steering, which includes speed-sensitive rear-wheel steering; Dynamic Damping Control adaptive suspension; and Driving Dynamics Control, which allows drivers to adjust throttle response, steering assist, and transmission programming. Standard seating is for five, with the rear seat being a 40-20-40 split bench that can slide up to 3.9 inches to benefit passenger or cargo space. An optional Luxury Rear Seating Package decreases seating capacity to four but includes power-adjustable rear seats, a full-length center console, power rear sunshades, and four-zone automatic climate control. A panoramic sunroof, head-up display, navigation system, and adaptive cruise control are also among the options. We have not yet tested the 2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo.