Spy shots: BMW's next 5-series

The BMW’s next-gen 5-series will arrive late this year as a 2010 model. The lately spy shots haven’t tell us much information, with the camouflage still pretty distracting.

It’s not yet clear which engines will be used for the new 5-series. However, a wide range of engines currently in the BMW stable is expected. Those include both the 3.0 liter inline 6 cylinder and the 4.4 liter V8 twin-turbo engines. On the lower end of the scale, there will also be 2.0 liter petrol and diesel engines packing enough punch to properly power this mid-range premium model.

Performance will also be improved thanks to the extensive use of lightweight materials including carbon-fiber and aluminum. The car’s construction will be a hybrid of an aluminum spaceframe for the front section, and a traditional steel monocoque for the passenger compartment and rear. This will ensure a favorable front-to-rear weight distribution and improved handling. Up front will be an independent suspension with MacPherson struts, with a multi-link layout for the rear. High-performance models will include carbon-fiber body panels to shed even more weight.