BMW has given Fleet News a sneak preview of the all-new 5 Series Touring, which will be launched in the UK in September.

There will be a choice of two petrol cars, the 523i and 535i, and two diesel models, the 520d and 530d, with the 520d registering the lowest CO2 rating of 137g/km.

It is the fourth generation of Touring models in the 5 Series range after first turning its executive saloon into an estate in 1991.

“Up until then most large estates were utilitarian load-luggers that eschewed both the driving capabilities of their saloon cousins as well as the style,” explained Tim Abbott, managing director of BMW UK. “The 5 Series Touring changed all that and its success has led to the new fourth generation being unveiled.

“Since the UK is the third largest market for the 5 Series Touring, this new model is an important and exciting one for us. Offering best in class performance, fuel efficiency and emissions, I have high hopes for the new 5 Series Touring here.”

All models feature 40/20/40 flat-folding rear seat backrests, a luggage load cover that retracts and lowers automatically with the tailgate and a self opening rear window for ease of loading smaller items - a unique feature in the market.

The boot capacity is 560 litres, 60 more than the outgoing model, and 1,670 litres with all rear seats folded.

A further option is ‘Extended Storage’ that includes ‘cargo’ functionality for rear seats. This allows the rear seat backrests to be fixed in a more upright position thereby increasing luggage capacity by 30 litres and minimising wasted space behind rear seats. This feature increases normal load capacity to 590 litres as well as adding lashing rails, storage nets and straps.

All models also feature self-levelling air suspension at the rear to ensure that the Touring is unaffected when carrying heavy loads. For the comfort of driver and passengers alike Dakota leather upholstery is now standard for all models as is automatic air conditioning with two-zone control.

Inside, the cabin features many of the sporting but luxurious quality and comfort features found in the BMW 7 Series.

Inclined seven degrees towards the driver, the asymmetrically designed centre console ensures that all controls are comfortably within the reach. The multifunctional steering wheel has been simplified, putting all of the function keys in one hand and infotainment in the other.

Its 1,995cc four cylinder diesel engine features the latest generation common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry which increases power to 184hp at 4,000rpm.

It accelerates from zero to 62mph in 8.3 seconds and onto a top speed of 138mph and boasts a combined fuel consumption of 54.3mpg. It also comes with a CO2 rating of 137g/km, making the 520d Touring is the most efficient car in the executive estate car segment, according to BMW.

The complete range comes with an array of EfficientDynamics technologies. The BMW 520d Touring is the first 5 Series to come with auto start-stop and all manual gearbox models come with an optimum gearshift indicator to help drivers decide when to change gear to optimise the car’s efficiency.

Completing the EfficientDynamics package are brake energy regeneration, active aerodynamics, low rolling resistance tyres, electric power steering and lightweight engineering throughout the vehicle. High-precision direct fuel injection is also fitted on both petrol models.

All models come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, which has been optimised compared to previous transmissions for greater efficiency, with the option of BMW’s new eight-speed automatic transmission.

The carmaker expects the 520d Touring to be the biggest seller in the UK and an estimated 60:40 split of retail to fleet for the complete range.

It will be offered with four optional equipment packages. BMW Business Advanced Media and BMW Professional Multimedia packages include BMW Navigation, BMW ConnectedDrive – Assist and Online and Voice control. The Dynamic package includes 19-inch alloy wheels, sport seats, anthracite headlining, sport leather steering wheel and high-gloss exterior trim. The visibility package includes adaptive headlights, Xenon headlights, high-beam assist and headlight wash.

The new 5 Series Touring goes on sale on September 18, 2010.

Range details:

BMW 520d Touring - £30,380 OTR - 184hp – 380Nm – 0-62mph in 8.3 secs - 54.3mpg (combined) - 137g/km

BMW 530d Touring - £39,400 OTR – 245hp – 540Nm - 0-62mph in 6.4 secs - 44.1mpg (combined) - 169g/km

BMW 523i Touring - £33,585 OTR -204hp – 270Nm - 0-62mph in 8.2 secs - 35.8mpg (combined) - 185g/km

BMW 535i Touring - £39,650 OTR – 306hp – 400Nm - 0-62mph in 6 secs - 32.8mpg (combined) - 201g/km

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