Presenting BMW's X6 Alternative: The 5-Series Gran Turismo
Maybe the X6 was just too pointless, polarizing, and expensive to catch on. Either BMW is adding to the problem or solving it with its latest entry: the 5 Gran Turismo.
Essentially a mid-size luxury hatch, the Gran Turismo emphasizes versatility with class-leading engineering. There can be no denying the 5 is the standard for all mid-size luxury sedans; and all of those attributes in handling and road manners are put to work with the added utility. The Gran Turismo will start off with about 15 cu. ft. of cargo space, with an increase to 21 with slight seat adjustment. Folding down the rear seats will lead to a maximum cargo volume of just under 60 cu. ft.
Providing power under the hood is BMW’s trusty twin-turbo 3.0 L inline-six putting out 306 hp. While that’s hardly weak, BMW is not taking any chances: a 407 hp 4.4 L twin-turbo V-8 will also be offered. Mated to these is a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. The eight-on-eight combination will allow drivers to hit sixty in as little as 5.5 sec.
BMW is not letting up on the tech-side either. A new “ConnectDrive” smart computer will enable the 5 to adjust speeds and makes stops on cruise control. Also onboard is a night vision system to help avoid obstacles and pedestrians on the road. A safety unit will warn drivers if they are veering off the lane. Headlamps will automatically adjust to the environment for the best visibility.
With the 5 GT, BMW is taking the lead in offering a safe, comfortable, and practical vehicle for the sophisticated buyer. The only downside with the Gran Turismo is a focus on rear-drive as opposed to all-wheel-drive, as in BMW’s X6. In the end, this’ll probably be nothing more than a minor blemish to what will surely be an excellent addition to a proud German line.
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