‘A BIGGER AND BETTER 5-SERIES?’

Another niche found and filled by BMW, but will anyone bite on the bait.  The all-new 2010 BMW 550i GT is a mix of a near 7-Series sized, luxury sport sedan with a sport utility like double-tiered hatchback.  The only competition is BMW itself with the X6 multi-tasking vehicle, and you can probably add the new Acura ZDX that I tested a few weeks ago into the mix.

The 550i GT is all about loading cargo, whether its boxes, golf bags, or luggage for long vacation getaways, or when shopping locally.  With the hatch fully opened, taking care of your cargo is a snap.  Inside the fully carpeted cargo area are chrome tie-downs and straps at both sides to secure small or large items.

For longer items, the luxury heated and reclining leather trimmed second-row seat is split 60/40 and folds flat.  You can also option for two heated and ventilated rear bucket seats with a full length center console for an even sportier interior look, plus the seat backs also folds flat. There is also a removable rear security plate over the cargo hold that disengages easily and stores in the underfloor storage area.  LED lit cargo lamps in the rear make loading or unloading at night safer.

The coupe like silhouette, double kidney grille 5-Series front fascia, low front overhang, and frameless door glass give the new 550i GT a sportier look than the X6.  I guess this marks the end of the 5-Series Sportwagon.

How many consumers, even BMW enthusiasts, will be willing to pay a base price of $63,900.00 for the V8 equipped 550i GT?  I don’t know but this new 5-Series BMW is a true BMW, the ultimate driving machine, and rides on the 7-Series frame that is 3.8 inches longer than a new 5-Series sedan at 120.7 inches, and is 3.6 inches longer in total length, at 196.8 inches.  That’s plenty of room to fit into the average garage.  If you combine the extra length, giving you a more comfortable ride, and the very functional hatchback, it looks like the GT becomes the most accommodating and practical 5-Series vehicle.

The new BMW 550i GT is powered by a 4.4 liter, DOHC, direct fuel injected, twin-turbo, Double VANOS steplessly variable valve timing V8 generating 407hp and 450lb.ft. of torque.  This mighty powerplant is the same found in the new 7-Series.

Also just like the new 7-Series, torque to the rear wheels flows through a new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifting that felt like the gears melted through my right hand; always the correct shift in automatic, quick with no hunting around.   From 0-60mph at launch, BMW claims 5.4 seconds, I think that it is even quicker.

Like all BMW’s the new 550i GT is fun and easy to drive, and at the right time and place, very exiting when you put the car into Sport or Sport+.  Instantly the unique multi-link, 4-wheel independent suspension’s electronic, multi-valving, gas-charged shocks, rear air springs, and stabilizer bars tightens up, the steering becomes heavier yet quick to respond as the active steering measures the angle and yaw of the steering wheel turning all four wheels to enhance handling control, while the onboard computer recalibrates the gearing and the electronic throttle response.  Normal idle climbs 500rpm.  Two tubular engine braces keep the front end taut and enhances the reaction to your steering inputs.

The 4,900+lb. 550i GT was surprisingly neutral and very nimble during normal driving around slow city traffic, and terrific at handling steep, curving mountain roads.  With Sport+ engaged, the Traction Control system is automatically turned off and you can let the rear end slide through the turns.

Quickly slowing the new 550i GT down from speed are massive, four-wheel vented rotors.  Up front are 14.5 inch discs clamped with six-piston calipers, and 14.5 inch discs clamped with dual-piston calipers in the rear.  Braking control and response are enhanced with standard ABS, Dynamic Brake Control, Brake Assist, Brake Wipe and Regenerative Brakes that return the electric energy back into the battery.

The 550i rides on standard 18X8 inch cast aluminum wheels and tires, with 19X8 inch cast aluminum wheels and tires and 20X8.5 inch cast aluminum wheels are wrapped with Goodyear 245/40R20 inch front and 275/35R20 inch Excellence low-profile tires in the rear for excellent traction and a compliant, quiet ride.

The interior is inviting, roomy and very comfortable.  The forward and side visibility is excellent but the rear view is somewhat pinched with the higher seatbacks of the second row and small hatch window.  The interior is signature BMW with excellent materials, workmanship and details.  All around you are large pieces of real wood veneer, real aluminum trim, quality soft-to-the-touch dashboard, with hand-cut sewn leather trim around the doors.  The instrument cluster is a great, well designed and easy to see and understand.

The center stack is canted slightly to you making it easier to locate important buttons, dials and switches.  The center console is finished in black piano veneer and contains dual cupholders, the ergonomic, aluminum stick shift lever and an armrest with storage down below.

The 3-spoke, leather wrapped/heated/power tilt/telescoping steering wheel feels perfect in your hands and contains buttons for the audio system and cruise control.  The 12-way powered/heated, leather trimmed front bucket seats are a perfect fit for long drives, and are well bolstered when you are hunting down curving roads to enjoy the thrill of the 407hp twin-turbo V8’s power.  The heated, second-row, leather seats are also very comfortable, and feature a pull-down center armrest with dual cupholders, storage, and the ability to move fore and aft plus the seat backs can also be adjusted.  Legroom and headroom in the rear is excellent for taller passengers.

My new BMW 550i GT test vehicle came equipped with these features not mentioned above: Xenon Adaptive Headlamps with dynamic auto-leveling, LED Corona headlights-rings, cornering lights and rear LED lights, push button start/stop ignition, halogen free-form foglamps, AM-FM-CD-MP3 player audio system with 9-speakers with HD radio, dual temperature electronic climate control with air filtration, aluminum scuff plates at each door with a BMW logo that lights up in red when the door is opened, a panoramic dual moonroof with power shades, front and rear Park Distance Control, storage slots in each door, rain-sensing wipers, iDrive system with on-board computer and Controller and programmable memory buttons, all express power windows/door locks, grab handles above each door, cruise-control, universal garage door opener, auto dimming rearview mirrors, power remote/power folding/heated/self-dimming sideview mirrors, retractable headlamp washers, power lumbar support, iPod and USB adapter, BMW Navigation system, BMW Assist with Bluetooth, dual map lamps, and full perimeter, thick-cut carpeting and front/rear floor mats.  Options include ventilated front/rear seats, radar-sensing cruise control, Blind Spot warning, and Lane Departure warning.

Standard safety features include driver/front passenger airbags, front driver/passenger side airbags, front and rear-seat head protection system, height-adjustable, three-point safety belts for all 5-seating positions with front load limiters/pretensioners, anti-whiplash head restraints, LATCH anchors for child seats, BMW Assist system, Tire Pressure Monitoring system, full perimeter anti-theft alarm system, daytime running lamps, front/rear crumple zones, and steel beams in each door.

BMW has created and filled another niche in the luxury, sport segment by bringing to market a sedan that also offers the versatility of a hatchback for those consumers that need the ease of loading and unloading cargo of all sizes and shapes.

COPYRIGHT:2010:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

Price: Base $63,900 As-Tested $74,025
Type: Large Sedan
Where Built: Germany
EPA Class: Large Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 196.8 in.
Width: 74.8 in.
Height: 61.4 in.
Wheel Base: 120.7 in.
Ground Clearance: 5.7 in.
Curb Weight: 4938 lbs.
Gross Weight: 5975 lbs.

Interior
Front Head Room: 41.4 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 59.3 in.
Rear Head Room: 39 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 57.7 in.
Front Leg Room: 40.6 in.
Rear Leg Room: 41.8 in.
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 60 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Base Number of Cylinders: 8
Base Engine Size: 4.4 liters
Base Engine Type: V8
Horsepower: 400 hp
Max Horsepower: 5500 rpm
Torque: 450 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 1750 rpm
Maximum Towing Capacity: 4630 lbs.
Drive Type: RWD
Turning Circle: 40 ft.
0-60mph: 5.4 seconds

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 15 mpg / 21 mpg / 17 mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 277.5 mi. / 388.5 mi. / 314.5 mi.

Not knowing where the new BMW 5-Series GT falls in place of a segment, Hamann attempts to properly puts it in its rightful place as a modified 4-door hatchback/sedan/wagon/whatchamacallit. Hamann offers a stylish body kit with revised rear apron, side skirts, front and rear spoilers, 22-inch Anniversary Evo wheels, stainless steel exhaust system and even an air suspension lowering module for the 530d, 535i and 550i.

No doubt that the Hamann 5-Series GT is an improvement over stock but it still is not ‘good-looking’ in my opinion especially when compared to other Hamann modified BMWs.

Press Release

HAMANN turns BMW 5 series Gran Turismo into top-class crossover between SUV and limousine

HAMANN Motorsport has given the current BMW 5 Gran Turismo a significantly more dynamic appearance and turned the crossover between a comfortably spacious SUV and an elegant limousine into one of the most exclusive multi-purpose vehicles in the luxury class. As a renowned specialist of exquisite modifications for BMW automobiles, HAMANN is offering powerful performance improvements, noteworthy sportiness when it comes to engine components and an aerodynamics programme with exciting styling for the Gran Turismo in the 5 series.

The high sitting position of a SUV, the versatility of a van and the exclusive feeling of spaciousness of a limousine: The BMW 5 series Gran Turismo developed specifically for the US market is already an unusual top-class, multi-purpose vehicle when it leaves the plant. HAMANN has topped this and has given the BMW, internally known as the F 07 series, a much more exclusive and sporty look. Sophisticated components have been developed for the HAMANN aerodynamics programme and processed with top-quality workmanship. The result: a breathtaking overall design with optimised airflow across the entire vehicle. A lowering kit for the models 530d, 535i and 550i including air suspension provides the multi-purpose limousine with a much longer and dynamic appearance, even in a standing position. Perfectly synergised body components complete the exclusive appearance of the GT 5 series by HAMANN. The product range includes a front spoiler to be mounted on the standard front spoiler of the series, side skirts and a rear spoiler in a subtle or striking design, as required. Both provide reduced lift force at the rear axle and thus considerably improve the driving dynamics. A new rear apron makes room for the HAMANN mufflers. The four impressive stainless steel exhaust pipes feature an imposing diameter of 90 mm and create an extraordinarily robust sound.

The HAMANN motor specialists have developed a powerful performance gain from 245 PS (180 kW) to 275 PS (202 kW) for the 5 series GT 530d. The torque, an even more important factor when it comes to driving pleasure, simultaneously increases from 540 Nm to an impressive 620 Nm at 1750 RPM. Thanks to HAMANN Motorsport, the 5 series Gran Turismo 530d, whose performance is enhanced due to optimisation of the engine characteristics by means of reprogramming of the series Motronic, boasts 20 Nm more torque than the standard 535d, and that for only a fraction of the surcharge actually due.

Befitting its image, the modified Gran Turismo boasts gigantic 22-inch tyres: The elegantly styled HAMANN alloy wheel ANNIVERSARY EVO has been specially developed for the requirements of heavyweight, truly massive vehicles. In line with HAMANN’s philosophy on modifications, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and the use of special aluminium alloy ensure maximum load capacities at low weight. HAMANN ANNIVERSARY EVO designer wheels for the BMW 5 Gran Turismo are available in the sizes 9.0 x 22 for the front and 10.5 x 22 for the back. Wide-base tyres are fitted front (265/30ZR20) and back (295/25ZR20).

The HAMANN interior matches the grand feel of the exterior. Pedals and the footrest come in an aluminium design, and the black foot mats feature a silver HAMANN inscription for sporty emphasis. HAMANN Motorsport offers a high-quality, wide range of products for additional modification and individual tailoring of the interior of the BMW 5 series Gran Turismo.

The new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo offers a unique blend of sytle, space, luxury and sportiness.

We recently posted a few official images that were leaked over the internet and now we have our hands on THE OFFICAL images released by BMW with the official press release. Because the full press release is several pages long, we have provided a link to the PDF file below.

[source: BMW, BMWBlog]

Offical BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo  Press Release

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 23 2009… The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo adds new facets to BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machine tradition and refines the concept of first-class travel. For the first time, attributes of an elegant sedan, a contemporary Sports Activity Vehicle and a classic Gran Turismo are masterfully melded into a single, harmonious vehicle concept.

The traditional European term Gran Turismo (Grand Touring) was first applied by Italian carmakers in the 1950s when they combined the performance, handling, and style of a 2-seat sport car with luxurious amenities and luggage room for each occupant. BMW’s new Gran Turismo nurtures this tradition in its own contemporary way, providing exceptional space, style, luxury, and comfort for four passengers , plus the performance and driving pleasure of a BMW.

It does so with 21st-century performance. BMW’s wide-ranging EfficientDynamics initiative endows this new automobile with an outstanding balance between performance and efficiency. Thanks to its innovative twin turbo V-8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, the 550i Gran Turismo can accelerate from rest to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, yet delivers remarkable fuel efficiency in everyday driving.

Design: Abundant sportiness, elegance, luxury and versatility.

• Typical BMW proportions communicate dynamic character and sportiness.
• Long wheelbase and graceful, coupe-like roofline.
• An interior with contemporary design, generous dimensions and premium materials.

The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo radiates a unique blend of sportiness and stylish presence. Typical BMW proportions, four doors with frameless windows, and a coupe-like roofline combine into a harmonious, highly distinctive silhouette that visually represents this vehicle’s unusual blend of capabilities.

This vehicle’s visual presence is a captivating fusion of established BMW identity and new elements. Its elongated hood and long 120.7-inch wheelbase coalesce with a “greenhouse” set well aft and a fastback roofline into a profile that’s immediately recognizable as a BMW, yet at the same time communicates a new vehicle concept. From the first glance, it’s clear that this is an exceptionally roomy conveyance, yet also a highly dynamic one.

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