2011 BMW 5 Series: New Technologies Give Drivers More Options

The new, completely redesigned 2011 BMW 5 SeriesSirius satellite radio, HD radio, and an iPod port. The
has been revolutionized to include a wider range ofnew 5 Series has also been updated with radar-based
customizable options. Most notable are the newadaptive cruise control, making long distance drives
technological aspects of the 2011 528i, 535i, and 550imore effortless. And, there's even an intelligent
that trump the tech options for the 2010 models. Theself-parking option that's sure to impress passengers
new 5 Series is available with an expansive variety ofand on-lookers.
advanced technological features designed to enhanceNew safety options for the BMW 5 Series start with a
drivability, improve driver and passenger safety, andset of cameras that provide rear video for parking
create a more luxurious and effortless drivingassistance. The sedans also feature a new Heads-Up
experience.Display and Night Vision with pedestrian detection
The new options for the BMW 5 Series begin with thetechnology. Then there's Blind Spot and Land
transmission. North American drivers can choose fromDeparture Warning systems, which promote overall
a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automaticsafety and put the driver at ease in high-traffic
transmission for both the 535i and the 550i. And, assituations. And, distance-warning sensors relate the
part of BMW's EfficientDynamics program, the 535icar's proximity to objects by displaying an overhead
and 550i also benefit from a newview of the vehicle on the iDrive. Lastly, the series'
brake-energy-regeneration system and an ActiveAeroboasts a frontal collision warning program that
system that improve overall aerodynamics.automatically applies the brakes when an imminent
The 2011 5 Series also features a new ZF automaticimpact is detected.
transmission with five clutches and eight forwardFor the environmentally conscious driver, BMW will also
gears. This allows for a wider ratio spread—moreadd a hybrid to the new 2011 5 Series. The full hybrid,
speed options make for smoother acceleration anddubbed ActiveHybrid 5, has a 3.0-liter straight-six N55
deceleration in stop-and-go traffic. Rear-wheel drive isgas engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, an
standard on the new 5 Series, but all-wheel drive, oreight-speed automatic transmission, and is fueled by
xDrive, is available on several models. The intelligentelectricity. ActiveHybrid 5 will likely arrive in United
xDrive system uses sensors to detect slipperyStates markets early 2011.
patches in the road and adjust torque distributionFrom improved transmissions and enhanced
accordingly.aerodynamics, to self-parking capability and radar
A host of new tech options are available for the 2011cruise control, the new BMW 5 Series' options are
5 Series that weren't available for the 2010 5 Series.sure to impress drivers everywhere. The extensive list
First, the BMW 5 Series has been equipped with theof new, customizable options is unrivaled by all other
more intuitive, fourth-generation iDrive— drivers usecars on the market. With such a wide variety of
this all-in-one central control system to control theimproved options, the 2011 BMW 5 Series truly sets a
majority of functions inside the cabin.  Newnew standard for luxury, safety, and drivability in motor
entertainment features of the 2011 5 Series includevehicles today.