BMW 5 Series (E60) explained

BMW 5 Series (E60/E61)
Manufacturer:BMW
Production:July 5, 2003 – 2010
Model Years:2004–2010
Class:Executive car (E)
Wheelbase:28901NaN1
Length:
(LWB version, China)
Width:18501NaN1
Height:1470-
Weight:1545-
Related:BMW 6 Series (E63)
Predecessor:BMW 5 Series (E39)
Successor:BMW 5 Series (F10)

The fifth generation of the BMW 5 Series executive cars consists of the BMW E60 (sedan version) and BMW E61 (wagon version, marketed as 'Touring'). The E60/E61 generation was produced by BMW from 2003 to 2010 and is often collectively referred to as the E60.

The E60 generation introduced various new electronic features, including the iDrive infotainment system, head-up display, active cruise control, active steering, adaptive headlights, night vision, lane departure warning and voice control. The E60 was the first 5 Series to be available with a turbocharged petrol engine, a 6-speed automatic transmission and regenerative braking.

The M5 model was introduced in 2005 and is powered by the BMW S85 V10 engine. It was sold in the sedan and wagon body styles, with most cars using the 7-speed SMG III transmission. It was the first and only M5 model to be sold with a V10 engine.

In January 2010, the BMW 5 Series (F10) began production as the successor to the E60.

Development and launch

The development programme for the E60 began in 1997, concluding in 2002. The lead designer was Boyke Boyer.[1] The final design, developed by Davide Arcangeli[2] under BMW Design Director Chris Bangle,[3] [4] was approved in 2000 and German design patents filed on 16 April 2002.[5]

The sedan was launched on 5 July 2003 in Europe and in October 2003 in North America.[6] [7] [8] In late 2004, the Touring models were introduced.

Body styles

The body of the E60 was made using aluminium for the front of the car, and steel for the passenger cabin and rear. Kerb weights are 1445- for the sedan[9] [10] and 1675- for the wagon.[11] [12] The weight distribution of the sedan models was 50:50.[13]

Interior / Equipment

The iDrive infotainment system— first introduced in the E65 7 Series— was fitted to all E60 models. The standard iDrive system included a 6.5-inch LCD screen, a single-disc CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth for phone calls (available only on later-build 2004 models, and standard on all 2005 and newer models), basic voice control, and vehicle settings. Optional features included an 8-inch LCD screen, GPS navigation, Sirius Satellite Radio (on North American-spec models), and DVD video playback. iPod and USB integration, HD Radio (on North American-spec models), an auxiliary audio input jack (standard on 2008 and newer models), full voice control, and a multi-disc CD/MP3/DVD changer (mounted in the glove compartment). On North American-spec models, a ten-speaker premium audio system with dual under-seat subwoofers and an amplifier was standard equipment, with a thirteen-speaker Harman Kardon "Logic 7" premium surround sound audio system available as an option on all models.

An emergency hotline feature (BMW Assist) was also available for the E60. The BMW Assist system could also use the phone network to notify the driver and their preferred BMW dealership when servicing was due. This feature was standard on all E60 models sold in the United States.

Other features available in the E60 initially included active cruise control, Bi-Xenon headlights, run-flat tyres, active anti-roll bars,[14] head-up display[15] and active steering.[4] Safety-related items include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), adaptive headlights and night vision.

In 2009, the iDrive system was upgraded from the first-generation "CCC" interface to the newer "CIC" interface. The audio system control panel added six multifunction preset buttons that could be programmed to store favorite radio stations and frequently-dialed telephone numbers for the Bluetooth hands-free system. The iDrive controller in the center console was also redesigned, and now integrated shortcut keys for frequently-used functions.

Over the E60's lifespan, the following features were added: Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, keyless entry ("comfort access"), LED taillights, Lane Departure Warning and Brake Force Display.[16] [17]

The E60 was the first 5 Series in 22 years where the centre console was not angled towards the driver,[18] [19] however the E60's successor returned to angling the centre console towards the driver.[20]

In 2003 a 6-speed SMG-II gearbox was offered as an option on the 525i, 530i, 545i and 550i in some markets.[21]

Engines

Petrol

At launch, the E60 used the previous generation E39 5 Series' M54 straight 6 engine in the 520i, 525i and 530i models. The only petrol model with a new engine at launch was the 545i with the N62 V8. The M54 was phased out after the 2005 model years and replaced with the straight-4 N43 (in the 520i) and the straight-6 N52 engine (in the 525i and 530i). The model range was also expanded the same year to include a wider range of models like the 523i, 540i and 550i. In 2007, the only turbocharged petrol E60 model was introduced, the 535i with the twin-turbo straight-6 N54 engine. This model was exclusive to the North American market and was not sold in Europe.

Model Years Engine Power Torque
520i2003–20052.2 L M54
straight-6
1250NaN0
at 6,250 rpm
2100NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
2007–20102.0 L N46
straight-4
1150NaN0
at 6,400 rpm
2000NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
2.0 L N43
straight-4
1250NaN0
at 6,700 rpm
2100NaN0
at 4,250 rpm
523i2005–20072.5 L N52
straight-6
1300NaN0
at 5,800 rpm
2300NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
2007–20102.5 L N53
straight-6
1400NaN0
at 6,100 rpm
2400NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
525i2003–20052.5 L M54
straight-6
1410NaN0
at 6,000 rpm
2370NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
2005–20073.0 L N52
straight-6
1600NaN0
at 6,500 rpm
2500NaN0
at 2,750 rpm
2007–20103.0 L N53
straight-6
1600NaN0
at 6,100 rpm
2700NaN0
at 2,400 rpm
528i2007–20103.0 L N52
straight-6
1720NaN0
at 6,500 rpm
2700NaN0
at 2,750 rpm
530i2003–20053.0 L M54
straight-6
1700NaN0
at 5,900 rpm
3000NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
2005–20073.0 L N52
straight-6
1900NaN0
at 6,600 rpm
3000NaN0
at 2,500 rpm
2007–20103.0 L N53
straight-6
2000NaN0
at 6,700 rpm
3200NaN0
at 2,750 rpm
535i2007–20103.0 L N54
straight-6
turbo
2250NaN0
at 5,800 rpm
4000NaN0
at 1,300–5,000 rpm
540i2005-20104.0 L N62
V8
2250NaN0
at 6,300 rpm
3900NaN0
at 3,500 rpm
545i2003–20054.4 L N62
V8
2450NaN0
at 6,100 rpm
4500NaN0
at 3,600 rpm
550i2005–20104.8 L N62
V8
2700NaN0
at 6,300 rpm
4900NaN0
at 3,400 rpm
M52005–20105.0 L S85
V10
3730NaN0
at 7,750 rpm
5200NaN0
at 6,100 rpm

Diesel

The only diesel model available at launch was the 530d, which used an updated "TU" version of the M57 engine found in the previous generation E39 5 Series. In 2004 the 535d and 525d were added to the model range which also used different versions of the M57 straight-6 turbo engine. In 2005, the only 4 cylinder diesel model E60 was added to the model range, the 520d using the older M47 engine at first, and later the new N47 engine from 2007. Most of the diesel model range was exclusive to the European market, except a few models which were sold in some countries in Asia. No diesel models were offered in North America.

Model Years Power Torque
520d2005–20072.0 L M47
straight-4
1200NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
3500NaN0
at 1,750–3,000 rpm
2007–20102.0 L N47
straight-4
1300NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
3500NaN0
at 1,750–2,500 rpm
525d 2004–20072.5 L M57
straight-6
1300NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
4000NaN0
at 2,000 rpm
2007–20103.0 L M57
straight-6
1450NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
4000NaN0
at 1,300–3,250 rpm
530d2003–20053.0 L M57
straight-6
1600NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
5000NaN0
at 2,000 rpm
2005–20073.0 L M57
straight-6
1700NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
5000NaN0
at 1,750 rpm
2007–20103.0 L M57
straight-6
1730NaN0
at 4,000 rpm
5000NaN0
at 1,750–3,000 rpm
535d2004–20073.0 L M57
straight-6
2000NaN0
at 4,400 rpm
5600NaN0
at 2,000–2,250 rpm
2007–20103.0 L M57
straight-6
2100NaN0
at 4,400 rpm
5800NaN0
at 1,750–2,250 rpm

Transmissions

Available transmissions are:

M5 model

The M5 model of the E60 generation was introduced in 2005 and produced in sedan and wagon body styles. The E60 M5 is powered by the BMW S85 V10 engine, which produces 3730NaN0 at 7,750 rpm, 5200NaN0 at 6,100 rpm and has a redline of 8,250 rpm.[24] [25] The 0- acceleration time is 4.7 seconds.[26]

The majority of M5s were sold with a 7-speed automated manual transmission ("SMG III"),[27] [28] however a 6-speed manual was also available in some markets.

Total production of the M5 was 20,548 units, consisting of 19,523 sedans and 1,025 wagons.[29]

Special models

Alpina B5

See main article: Alpina B5 (E60).

Introduced in February 2005, the Alpina B5 and Alpina B5 S were built in sedan and wagon body styles and powered by the 4.40NaN0 BMW N62 petrol V8 engine (as used by the 545i) with the addition of a centrifugal supercharger. The rated power outputs are 3680NaN0 for the B5[30] and 3900NaN0 for the B5 S. Both models used the ZF 6HP26 6-speed hydraulic automatic transmission shared with the regular E60 models.

BMW 5 Series Security

The E60 was available as 'Security' models, a factory armoured version which was unveiled at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show.[31] Built with ballistic steel, aramid, polyethylene and 21mm polycarbonate layered glass[32] it was certified at VR4 level of VPAM's Bullet Resistant Vehicle guidelines (1999).[33] The armoured areas include the entire passenger cell, battery terminals and Engine Control Unit. As standard they included an intercom system and panic alarm.

The Security models were built using the mechanicals of the 530i or the 550i, with upgraded suspension and braking systems.[34] Production of the Security models began alongside the series model at BMW's Dingolfing plant, with armouring prepared before being shipped to a specialist facility in Toluca, Mexico, where the vehicles complete the final assembly stage.[32]

Long-wheelbase sedan (China only)

A long-wheelbase (LWB) version of the E60 5 Series was offered in China. Models included the 520Li, 523Li, 525Li, and 530Li.[35] The wheelbase was increased to 30301NaN1 from the original wheelbase of, a increase.

BMW 5 Series Authority Vehicle

The 5 Series Authority Vehicle is designed for police forces, fire services, and emergency rescue services. It has a firearm bracket in the rear center armrest.[36]

Safety

Initially the 5 Series received a three-star rating for adult occupants.[37] However changes were made to the steering column, footrest, door trims, door latch, airbags and electronic software and the car was retested achieving its four-star rating. BMW claims the modifications improved the car's Euro NCAP score, not the vehicle's safety; consequently BMW chose not to recall the earlier-built cars.[38]

The American Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives the 5 Series a "Good" overall rating in frontal collisions but a "Marginal" overall rating for side impact collisions.[39] [40] The IIHS reported their side impact test would likely cause driver related rib fractures and/or internal organ injuries. The IIHS tests were conducted on models built after May 2007; these models had modifications to improve side impact safety.

Euro NCAP scores (2004 sedan)[41]
Adult Occupant:
Child Occupant:
Pedestrian:
NHTSA scores (2008 sedan)[42]
Frontal Driver:
Frontal Passenger:
Side Driver:
Side Rear Passenger:
Rollover:

2007 facelift

The 'Life Cycle impulse' (LCI) models were introduced in March 2007 (for the 2008 model year). Styling changes were relatively subtle, and included revised headlights, tail lights and front bumper.[43] The interior was significantly revised. The iDrive system was upgraded with programmable "favourite" shortcut buttons (for 2009 models), a revised menu system, preset buttons for the audio system and the switch from DVD to hard disk based storage (for 2010 models).[44]

Mechanically, the 5 Series gained the new engines and transmissions from the E70 X5. On automatic transmission models, a shift by wire shifter replaced the mechanical version and shift paddles were available for the first time on a 5 Series model besides the M5.

The active cruise control was upgraded to bring the vehicle to a complete stop and accelerate from stationary (called "Stop & Go"). Other changes include adaptive headlights, LED rear lights, Lane Departure Warning,[45] night vision[46] and Brake Force Display. The E60 LCI was the first BMW to feature regenerative braking.[47]

Production

Production of the E60/E61 occurred at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in Germany[48] and at the BMW Brilliance plant in China.[49]

Complete knock-down assembly of German-produced kits took place in Thailand,[50] Egypt,[51] Russia[52] and Malaysia.[53]

Yearly production figures[54]
YearTotalSedanTouringNotes
200370,52270,522-Sedan launched in July.
2004229,598191,36131,342Touring model launched in May.
2005228,389177,71950,670
2006232,193182,53949,654
2007230,845181,53449,311
2008202,287156,82545,462
2009175,983135,94436,987
Total1,369,8171,096,444263,426

Notes and References

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  2. Web site: Iconic BMW designs: M5 (E60) . www.cardesignnews.com . 8 June 2020 . en.
  3. Web site: E60 BMW 5 Series Design – Ahead of its time?. www.bmwblog.com. 27 January 2017. 9 November 2014.
  4. Web site: The New BMW 5 Series . https://web.archive.org/web/20030608083932/http://www.forbes.com/2003/06/02/cx_mf_0602feat_3.html . dead . 8 June 2003 . www.forbes.com . 11 March 2013.
  5. Web site: Registerauskunft zum Design Designnummer: 40203456-0001. register.dpma.de. Deutsches Patent- und Markenamt. 12 April 2017. de.
  6. Web site: Markteinführung am 5. Juli 2003: Die neue BMW 5er Limousine. BMW GROUP . www.press.bmwgroup.com. 23 April 2003. 19 June 2018. de. Market launch on 5 July 2003: The new BMW 5 Series Sedan.
  7. Web site: Der spaltet die Nation. That splits the nation. Autobild. www.autobild.de . 2003-04-16 . 19 June 2018. de.
  8. Web site: 2004 BMW 5Series 530i First Drive. 15 February 2019. MOTORTREND. www.motortrend.com.
  9. Web site: 2008 5-series sedan brochure. 15 February 2019. www.socal28.com.
  10. Web site: Daten 523i 525i 530i 540i 550i. de. 15 February 2019.
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  12. Web site: BMW 5er Touring 520d, 525d, 530d, 535d. 15 February 2019. de. BMW AG. www.treffseiten.de.
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  14. Web site: BMW 5 Series History. www.edmunds.com. 28 March 2017.
  15. Web site: 5' E60 550i Head-up display . www.realoem.com . 24 July 2020.
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  17. Web site: MY2008 detailed changes. 15 February 2019. www.bmwdrives.com . https://web.archive.org/web/20190828174749/https://www.bmwdrives.com/bmw_cars/e60_my2008_detailed_changes.pdf . 28 August 2019 . dead.
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  19. Web site: 2006 BMW M5 & M6. www.roadandtrack.com. 27 January 2017. 19 January 2006.
  20. Web site: BMW Talks About Its Most Successful 5-Series Ever, The F10. www.carscoops.com. 15 March 2017.
  21. Book: ST 813 M DCT Drivelogic . BMW AG . 7 . 14 July 2019.
  22. Book: Master SBT Sequential Manual Transmission SMG E 60 V 2 . BMW AG . 2 . 14 July 2019.
  23. Web site: 5' E60 M5 Manual gearbox GS7S47BG (SMG) . www.realoem.com . 7 June 2020.
  24. Web site: BMW S85 Engine (S85B50). mywikimotors.com. 28 September 2017. https://web.archive.org/web/20171002222544/http://mywikimotors.com/bmw-s85/. 2 October 2017. dead.
  25. Web site: The UnixNerd's Domain – BMW S85 V10 and S65 V8 Engines. G.Burns. John. www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk. 11 August 2016. 23 January 2016. https://web.archive.org/web/20160123155204/http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/s85.html. dead.
  26. Web site: 2006 BMW M5 – First Drive Review. www.caranddriver.com. 31 March 2017.
  27. Web site: 2006 BMW M5 . www.caranddriver.com . 12 January 2019 .
  28. Web site: BMW M5 2005–2010 Review (2019) . www.autocar.co.uk . 12 January 2019.
  29. Web site: BMW M5 production comes to an end . 30 March 2017 . www.autoblog.com.
  30. Web site: ALPINA Automobiles based on BMW 5 Series E60 / E61. www.alpina-automobiles.com. 3 August 2017.
  31. Web site: Zhou . Lu . BMW 5 Security Edition . www.autoblog.com . Autoblog . 4 September 2005.
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