One look and the car changes lanes on its own. It's not about science fiction but about new BMW 5 Series Touring a machine that since its first series in 1972 has been synonymous with long journeys in maximum comfort. The new generation continues this tradition, combining a classic design with technologic innovations cutting edge. Among these, the revolutionary Highway Assistant system, which promises to make autonomous driving even safer and more intuitive.
Highway Assistant: one look in the mirrors and the car moves on its own
The Highway Assistant system, part of the package Driving Assistant Professional, represents a notable step forward towards autonomous driving (level 2). Available in countries with adequate regulations (United States, Canada and Germany), allows the car to change lanes independently. The system not only assists in steering and lane keeping, but also allows the Stop & Go function. But the big news is the one that all it takes is a glance at the rear-view mirrors to activate the function: the car moves serenely to the left or right. This system uses sensors and cameras to constantly monitor the driver's attention, ensuring their eyes stay on the road.
How the Highway Assistant system works
When the digital dashboard signals the possibility of changing lanes, a glance at the rear-view mirrors is enough to activate the system. The car moves left or right in total safety and tranquility. The system was specially designed to improve safety and comfort of the driver, reducing the need for manual interventions when driving on equipped motorways and in compliance with current regulations.
BMW 5 Series Touring: there's more in addition to the Highway Assistant
In addition to Highway Assistant, the 5 Series Touring offers a wide range of driver assistance technologies. Among these, the Parking Assistant Professional, which allows you to maneuver and park the car from the outside using your smartphone. This system is particularly useful in narrow spaces and costs 1.100 euros. Also the M braking system, M Sport Suspension and Integral Active Steering four-wheel steering are available as options, further improving the vehicle's performance and handling.
Motorization: the electric motor makes its debut
The new 5 Series Touring introduces for first time an electric motor, confirming its reference position among medium-large station wagons in the premium segment. There i5 M60 version xDrive Touring, with two electric motors, offers a combined power of 517 horsepower, which can increase to 601 in Boost mode. With a maximum torque of 820 Nm, this car achieves i 100 km/h from standstill in just 3,9 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 230 km/h.
BMW 5 Series Touring: design and interiors
The passenger compartment of the new 5 Series Touring takes up that of the sedan, enriched by vegan coverings of series and from BMW Curved Display, which integrates a 12,3-inch and a 14,9-inch digital screen for infotainment. The interior design aims for maximum ergonomics and quality of materials, with particular attention to passenger comfort. The trunk It offers a variable capacity between 490 and 530 litres, depending on the engine, with practical solutions such as hooks and rings for loading, as well as levers for folding down the rear seats with a 40:20:40 configuration.
BMW 5 Series Touring: variants and prices
La i5 M60 xDrive Touring starts from 103.800 euros, the electric range also features the version eDrive40 Touring, with a single engine on the rear axle, which develops 340 horsepower and has a base price of 78.000 euros. For the first time, the 5 Series Touring does not offer pure petrol engines, but only diesel and mild hybrid versions. The entry model, the 520d, is available starting from 71.000 euros for the sDrive version and 73.400 euros for the xDrive.
The new BMW 5 Series Touring thus remains at the top of the medium-large station wagon segment, thanks to an ideal balance between technological innovation, dynamic performance and high comfort. How will its historical rivals, the Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class, respond now?
