Well, it hasn't touched down in the United States, if that's what you were wondering. The new-gen BMW 5 Series, in the 540d xDrive configuration, has been detailed for Australia, where it will launch in the fourth quarter of the year.
It packs a punchy diesel engine with twin turbocharging, has six cylinders inline, and a 3.0-liter displacement, and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system comprising a motor/generator and a 48-volt battery assist it. BMW says the new 540d xDrive produces 223 kilowatts (303 ps/299 hp) and 670 Nm (494 lb-ft) of torque.
The output is slightly behind the E34 M5 from the late '80s and early '90s, and the thrust is almost double. For what it's worth, that M5 took nearly 6.5 seconds to 100 kph (62 mph) and topped at 250 kph (155 mph). As for the modern-day diesel-powered 5er with xDrive all-wheel drive, it is far quicker, as it can deal with the sprint in just 5.2 seconds. The top speed hasn't been revealed, but it probably maxes out at 250 kph, too.
According to BMW, the new 2025 540d xDrive features metallic paintwork at no extra cost, with the list comprising the M Carbon Black, Sophisto Gray Brilliant Effect, Black Sapphire, Phytonic Blue, Mineral White, M Brooklyn Gray, Oxide Gray, Cape York Green, and Fire Red. The BMW Individual Tanzanite Blue, Frozen Deep Gray, Frozen Deep Purple, and Frozen Portimao Blue are options.
Photo: BMW
This model also gets adaptive LED headlights, a backlit kidney grille, 20-inch M alloys (21-inch available), standard M Sport Package, M Sport Brakes with dark blue metallic calipers, an automatic trunk lid, adaptive suspension, a tire-pressure monitor, a tire repair kit as there is no spare, an alarm system, Comfort Access, multiple safety systems, and many others.
Opening the door will reveal the premium cockpit, which features front sports seats with heating, two-zone climate control, a wireless charging tray, DAB+ radio, M leather-wrapped steering wheel, BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery, natural interaction, BMW Live Cockpit Professional, BMW ConnectedDrive Services, Connected Package Professional, Intelligent Emergency Call, a non-opening panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, interior camera, Bowers & Wilkins audio, etc.
Options include the Comfort Package (AU$5,700/equal to US$3,793), which adds a heated steering wheel, roller sunblinds, front seating ventilation, heated rear seats, and four-zone climate control; the M Sport Plus (AU$4,200/US$2,795), which brings 21-inch wheels, M brake calipers, M seatbelts, M Lights Shadow Line, M Carbon side mirror caps, and rear spoiler.
As mentioned above, BMW will start delivering the new 540d xDrive in Australia in Q4 2024 and is asking a minimum of AU$134,900 (US$89,767), which is the recommended retail price and includes GST and LCT but excludes on-road costs. This model joins the 520i and other 5 Series offerings, as well as the battery-electric i5 in the brand's local lineup.
After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s. Full profile
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