When the 2014 BMW 5 Series goes on sale in August, the 528i will cost $50,425 while the V8-equipped 550i will sticker at $64,825. Those prices include a $925 destination charge. A diesel engine will be offered in the new 535d, for $57,525. The Gran Turismo jumps from $60,925 to $71,125.
Four engines are offered, including the 255-hp, 413-lb-ft diesel engine. The three others are the 4.4-liter V8 in the 550i (445 hp, 480 lb-ft), 3.0-liter inline-six (300 hp, 300 lb-ft) and the 240-hp turbocharged four, which carries over in the 528i. The V8 in the 550i now combines the twin-scroll turbochargers, direct injection and BMW's Valvetronic throttle-less intake valve control. The 535i can be had with a six-speed manual, the rest get an eight-speed automatic. Wheel-mounted paddle shifters are offered, as is the Sport Automatic option, which adds quicker shifting and Launch Control.
A group of BMW Efficient Dynamics technologies are standard, including a coasting mode, brake-energy regeneration, auto stop/start and eco pro mode, which improves economy.
The suspension carries over for 2014, but has been fine-tuned. The front double wishbones and integral rear axle are made from aluminum, which BMW says allows the suspension to respond more rapidly.
Dynamic Drive Control system continues and the switch on the center console changes the acceleration, steering and if the Sport Automatic option is specified, shift characteristics. The 5 Series also has Integral Active Steering, which, in addition to adjusting load according to speed, can angle the rear wheels through tight turns.
New features for 2014 include an automatic trunk closer if you swing your foot under the rear bumper, a new rear-seat entertainment system and upgraded iDrive with a touchpad.
Enthusiasts can check out the 560-hp, 2014 BMW M5, which will also debut in August. The M5 gets a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or an optional six-speed manual. BMW's Active M Differential is standard, as is the aluminum suspension.
The Competition package adds about 15 hp, for a total of 575, as well as a retuned suspension with stiffer antiroll bars. The M5 is lowered by a centimeter all around and the active differential is tuned even more aggressively.
The M5 also gets its own 20-inch lightweight wheels and a sport exhaust system with quad tailpipes.
Pricing hasn't been revealed for the M5, but last year's model was about $28,000 more than the 550i, so it should be around $92,000.––Paul Duchene
