Following the introduction of the 7th-gen BMW 5 Series in the fall of 2016 and sales launch in February 2017, the manufacturer will be taking the series through a facelift due on the market in late 2020. In the meantime, the first prototype was caught on camera.
The layout of the test wrap prompts that the new BMW 5 will be styled in a similar vein to the current 3 Series. In particular, it appears to have similar-looking headlights and DRLs. The radiator grille might end up growing in size a little bit, but not nearly as much as it did on the latest 7 Series.
On an interesting side note, the car bears a ‘Hybrid Test Vehicle’ badge and has a power socket. It also has what seems to be a masked ‘E Drive’ badge.
The 5 Series received quite a few improvements and innovations before the facelift. For one, the M550i xDrive had its turbocharged V8 upgraded from 462 hp (345 kW) and 650 Nm (480 lb-ft) of torque to 530 hp (395 kW) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft). For another, the 530e had its electric range increased from 45 to 61-66 kilometers (from 28 to 38-41 miles). Finally, said RWD hybrid became available in a new AWD version rated for 55-58 km (34-36 miles) of electric range.
Some industry observers expect the new 5 Series to incorporate a new model called the 545e. This one would get a hybrid drivetrain based on the same 3.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine as the 745e, rated at 394 hp (294 kW) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque. An all-electric version remains highly unlikely.
Last but not, some older trims may be discontinued after the facelift. For one, BMW said it might stop producing the quad-turbo diesel engine it currently installs on the M550d. The unit produces 400 hp (298 kW) along with 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) of torque.