BMW Unveils 5 Series LWB in India at Rs 72.90 Lakh
BMW has introduced the all-new 5 Series in India, priced at Rs 72.90 lakh, a few months after the debut of its electric counterpart, the i5. This marks the first time the 5 Series is offered in a long-wheelbase (LWB) version in India, whereas the i5 continues on the shorter wheelbase platform. Known internally as the G68, the eighth-generation 5 Series LWB is tailored for the chauffeur-driven luxury sedan market, directly competing with the long-established Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB.
Price and Market Positioning
The new BMW 5 Series is available exclusively in the 530Li variant. At a starting price of Rs 72.90 lakh, it is competitively positioned against its primary rival, the Mercedes E200, which starts at Rs 76.05 lakh. Interestingly, the 5 Series’ pricing overlaps with the 6 Series GT, which ranges from Rs 73.50 lakh to Rs 78.90 lakh. Within the segment, the Lexus ES is the most affordable, starting at Rs 63.10 lakh, followed by the Audi A6 at Rs 64.41 lakh and the Volvo S90 at Rs 68.25 lakh.
Performance and Powertrain
The 530Li variant features a 258hp, 400Nm 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid assist. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, delivering power to the rear wheels. BMW claims the 5 Series LWB can accelerate from 0-100kph in 6.5 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 250kph.
Exterior Design
Visually, the LWB variant is nearly identical to the standard 5 Series, aside from the extended wheelbase of 3,105mm and slightly altered rear doors. The Indian model sports sleek headlights and tail-lights, an illuminated BMW ‘kidney’ grille, and elegant lines. Standard features include 18-inch wheels, with optional 19-inch wheels available. The M Sport body kit, which includes sportier front and rear bumpers, is standard on the 530Li in India.
Interior Features
The dual-tone interior of the new 5 Series closely mirrors that of the i5, offering a familiar layout to recent BMW models. Key features include a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch driver-oriented central touchscreen infotainment system. The car has four-zone climate control, leather upholstery with diamond-pattern quilting, front-seat ventilation, matrix LED headlamps, an 18-speaker, 655W Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and six USB-C ports.
Rear Seat Comfort and Amenities
Special attention has been given to the rear seat area of the 5 Series LWB. The extended wheelbase provides extra legroom, and amenities include a touchscreen on the fold-down armrest for climate control, a rear wireless phone charger, a large moonroof with fixed glass, and optional rear entertainment screens. However, the rear seats do not recline, and there are no sunshades for the windows or rear windscreen.
Overall, the BMW 5 Series LWB offers a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced features, positioning itself as a strong contender in the premium sedan market in India.
