For its latest 5 Series model, BMW has gone back to the drawing board and completely redesigned the saloon’s interior space. Creating a focal point within the cabin is the fully digital BMW Curved Display with a frameless glass surface aimed slightly towards the driver. The digital addition consists of a 12.3in information display behind the steering wheel and a control display with 14.9in screen, which combine to form fully digital high-resolution display unit.
Powered by the BMW Operating System 8.5, the 5 Series’ BMW iDrive experience benefits from a new, updated and simplified graphic display to deliver an array of latest-generation features including video on demand via YouTube for the front occupants when the car is at a standstill. Due to the addition of these digital components, BMW has reduced the number of buttons found within the cockpit, providing only those buttons that are absolutely necessary.
New in-car experiences are delivered in AirConsole’s gaming platform, with both the driver and passengers able to play games – when stationary – on the digital display using their smartphones as controllers. Games are delivered over the air, meaning they can be played instantly without needing to be downloaded.
As standard, the latest BMW 5 Series saloon is the first model in the UK to feature Veganza upholstery, a leather-free surface material. Black seat surfaces are upholstered in the environmentally friendly material, in addition to the dashboard and door panels. The material can be selected with a decorative perforation and in three further colors. Alternatively, the 5 Series can be optioned with Merino leather upholstery in a range of colors.
Additionally, the entire rear seat backrest is now divided (as standard) in a 40:20:40 ratio and the rear luggage compartment delivers a total storage volume of up to 520 liters.
For the driver, a newly designed steering wheel features three spokes and a flat rim at the bottom, complete with contrast stitching in BMW M colors. Additional redesigns include the control panel on the center console, with the iDrive Controller now featuring a new gear selector switch. A wireless charging tray is also located here as standard.
For more on the BMW 5 Series, click here.
