Industry insiders from Behind the Wheel noted the distinctive features of BMW’s latest 5 Series Touring, highlighting how the station wagon aligns with the brand’s evolving design language. In their assessment, BMW moved away from the signature sliding window on the tailgate, opting instead for a fully opening fifth door. This change mirrors the sedan in overall philosophy, while the wagon grows in exterior footprint: length by 97 mm, width by 32 mm, height by 17 mm, and a wheelbase extension of 20 mm to accommodate a larger cargo area and improved ride dynamics.
The base model for the wagon is the 520d, which delivers 197 hp. Buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, complemented by a mild-hybrid 48-volt starter generator and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This configuration emphasizes efficiency without sacrificing performance, appealing to Canadian and American buyers who value balanced power and daily practicality.
Future powertrain strategy signals that pure petrol variants will be phased out in favor of electrification. The plug-in hybrid setup uses a 2.0-liter turbo engine paired with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic, yielding a combined output of 299 hp. The system is designed to deliver smooth, seamless electric assistance for daily commutes, while preserving the option of all-electric driving readiness when charged.
Earlier announcements referenced the forthcoming IM L6 sedan, slated to reach Chinese dealerships in May 2024. The sedan measures 4931 mm in length with a 2950 mm wheelbase. While the interior remains partially concealed by tinted glass, the design hints at a cockpit reimagined with a steering wheel borrowed from aviation-inspired layouts and a dashboard spanning the width of the cabin. An onboard lidar-equipped autopilot is described as reaching Level 3 autonomy on Chinese roads, signaling BMW’s ambitions in advanced driver assistance capabilities and future mobility ecosystems. These elements inform expectations for similar technology adoption in other markets, including North America, where regulatory and safety frameworks continue to shape rollout timelines.
In the initial phase of the IM L6 initiative, two variants are proposed. The rear-wheel-drive version features an electric motor delivering 340 hp on the rear axle. The all-wheel-drive configuration pairs a rear-mounted motor producing 515 hp with a front unit at 272 hp, yielding a combined output of 787 hp. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is projected at 3.3 seconds, illustrating the high-performance potential BMW is pursuing across its electric and plug-in hybrid lineups. These figures position the IM L6 as a bold statement in the premium segment, with strong emphasis on rapid response and dynamic handling that enthusiasts expect in North American markets.
In related news, it has been reported that the Chinese automaker BYD is planning a new crossover called Yuan Up. This model addition underscores the broader industry shift toward electric crossovers that blend compact dimensions with practical cargo space, a trend frequently observed by Canadian and American shoppers seeking versatile family and urban transport options. The evolving product slate from BYD and BMW reflects a competitive landscape where electrified drivetrains and intelligent assist systems are becoming standard rather than optional features, influencing buyer choices and brand perception across North America. [Source: Behind the Wheel magazine].