Leaked: 2017 BMW 5 Series long wheelbase images
Last year, BMW unveiled the new-generation 5 Series that received a new design along with an updated features list. In addition to the aesthetic upgrade, BMW made use of aluminium and high-strength steel to make the sedan 100kg lighter than the previous offering. And now images of the long-wheelbase version of the new BMW 5 Series have been leaked online. BMW is expected to reveal the G38 5 Series LWB at the 2017 Shanghai Motor Show scheduled to happen later this month.
From the images it is evident that BMW has not changed the LWB's design compared to the standard model. It is only the rear section that gets a larger door as the length has now gone up by 133mm. The same will prove to be more beneficial for the rear occupants. It is said that the rear cabin space of the 5 Series LWB will be identical to that of the standard (non LWB) 7 Series. The features list on the 5 Series LWB will remain similar to that of the regular model. In addition, it is expected to come equipped with active seat ventilation and a massage function. Also, similar to the 7 Series, it will get a detachable BMW Touch command tablet that can control almost all options in the cabin, including the infotainment system.
Powering the G38 5 Series long-wheelbase version is believed to be the 4-cylinder 1,995cc diesel engine that churns out 190PS/400Nm. In addition, there will be a 6-cylinder 2,993cc diesel unit that produces a peak output of 265PS and 620Nm. BMW might also get an iPerformance plug-in hybrid on the 5 Series LWB version.
The 2017 BMW 5 Series long wheelbase will be developed exclusively for the Chinese market to take on the likes of the Jaguar XF L and the Audi A6 L. The Chinese market has always had a fascination for such long-wheelbase models, making car manufacturers churn out such versions. Mercedes Benz launched the E-Class LWB in India earlier this year at Rs 56.15 lakh. We did reach out to BMW India to know if the manufacturer has any plans of launching the 5 Series LWB in India too. However, BMW India confirmed that there are no plans as such.