Rendering - 2017 BMW 5 Series to shed 100 kg

Base engine could be a three-cylinder unit.

Work on the next gen BMW 5 Series is underway for a 2016 launch and the car is already out testing in Europe. Here is a speculative rendering of the luxury sedan by Auto Bild.

Even though the new 5-er will be underpinned by a completely new OKL platform, the exterior styling would be an evolution of the current model. The automaker believes that the target audience are not impressed by a radical restyling.

The rendering suggests that the next iteration of the E Class rival would have a reprofiled kidney grille, narrower but longer headlamps (that flow into the grille) and a sharply sculpted bumper. The contours on the bonnet would be more accentuated.

In profile, the next gen Bimmer wouldn't change much save for larger wheels and new character lines while the rear, with sharpened up elements, would complement the front.

With the next gen 5 Series, BMW is looking to set new standards when it comes to interior quality and design. The equipment level would be raised by several rungs and the driver assistance system would be more comprehensive than before.

Check out our review of the BMW 530d M Sport

Thanks to the new platform, the 2017 BMW 5 Series would be around 100 kg lighter than its predecessor. To be available in sedan, GT and estate body styles, the new 5-er's engine lineup is reported to start with a three-cylinder unit and end with a V8 motor.

Competitors: Mercedes E Class, Audi A6, Jaguar XF

Expected Price: INR 50 - 60 lakhs, ex-showroom

Launch Date in Europe: 2016

[Rendering from Auto Bild]