UPDATED: **EVEN MORE PICTURES** BMW's F10 5-Series Debuts!

In what must be the most anticipated launch of the year, BMW's F10 5-Series has finally come out from hiding.  And, it is a looker.

A perennial favorite in mid-size sedan tests and what has set the benchmark in the past decades has finally come home to roost.  While the E60 has become dated, the new F10 is sure to remedy that issue quickly.

Initially, the 5-Series will be equipped with two motor choices; the 550i and 535i.  The 550 will have a 4.4 liter, twin-turbo'd V8 good for 400-horsepower, while the 535 will churn out 300-horsepower from its 3.0 liter, turbo inline-six motor. 

In addition, there will be not one or two transmission choices, but three.  Purists may favor the manual six-speed tranny, but there will be an eight-speed automatic as well as an eight-speed "sport automatic."

2011 BMW 5-Series Press Release

2011 BMW 5-Series Photo Gallery

More from BMW's official press release below:

"The world debut of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan marks the epitome of modern design and driving pleasure in the world of premium midsize sedans. Through its athletic and executive looks, driving dynamics typical of BMW, and innovative comfort and safety features, the sixth generation of BMW’s executive express accurately reflects the standards upheld by the world’s most successful manufacturer of premium cars.
 
Design: charismatic and athletic.

With the longest wheelbase in the segment, a long and sleek hood, short
overhangs, and a coupe-like roofline, the new BMW 5 Series Sedan stands out
clearly from the competition. Overall, the aesthetic looks of the car are achieved
through balanced proportions. Design features emblematic of BMW are to be
found at the front with its kidney grille inclined slightly forward, in the stylish and
elegant side view of the car, and at the muscular rear end.
 
Within the interior, precise functionality and a fresh ambience come together in
perfect harmony, unmistakable style, and clear orientation to the driver..."

For the full press release, click below:

2011 BMW 5-Series Press Release

2011 BMW 5-Series Photo Gallery

2011 BMW 5-Series Photo Gallery

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2010 Lexus LS Sport and Hybrid Photo Gallery

2010 BMW 7-Series M-Sport Photo Gallery

2009 SEMA AUTO SHOW Photo Gallery Now LIVE!

B7FAN - 11/23/2009 2:12:47 PM

+7 Boost

pure elegance and sexiness at the same time. I am sure this is a beast on the road the 4.4 of course. this car has met my expectations as far as looks and design now I need to test drive one

ThierryHenry14 - 11/23/2009 5:42:01 PM

+7 Boost

I'm sure the 535 is no slouch either.

Agent63 - 11/24/2009 12:15:42 AM

+6 Boost

It looks much more refined than the outgoing model. Only downfall that I see for this new 5-series is that the M5 will not carry the V10 motor, or so they say. That V10 sound from a family sedan is epic.

thstone - 11/23/2009 2:30:18 PM

+6 Boost

Classic lines. Strong engines. This will put BMW on top once again.

B7FAN - 11/23/2009 2:47:16 PM

+7 Boost

I agree %100

enthusiastx11 - 11/25/2009 1:15:59 PM

+2 Boost

silly badgewhore....profitability. it'll just keep BMW on top of profitability because people will pay huge premiums for the best in design and performance.

JRobUSC - 11/23/2009 2:43:58 PM

+8 Boost

looks awesome, and the interior (which I had to find photos of on Motortrend.com since there are none on here yet) absolutely crushes the brand new E-class.

B7FAN - 11/23/2009 3:22:25 PM

+5 Boost

I agree cant argue with that.

Willis - 11/23/2009 5:46:33 PM

0 Boost

How does this car crush the new E class when they've not even been compared to each other? The 5er will handle better since it is a BMW and the E class will be more comfortable. That's the way it has always been and will probably always be. Both cars speak to different buyers. I myself am more of an E class guy. I appreciate a car that handles well but is also comfortable and the E class does this just fine.

JRobUSC - 11/23/2009 6:29:48 PM

+7 Boost

how does this crush the E-class inside? I'm glad you asked. It crushes it because I've been in the new E-class (and the new GLK and C class) and my impression of what MB has done with every new car they've come out with recently is that they spent ALL their money designing beautiful exteriors... and ran out of money when it came to the interiors. They've taken a HUGE step backwards inside (and I was a big fan of MB interiors before). Audi's existing interiors are nicer than everything new MB has come out with recently (and who knows what the new Audi's will have), and every new BMW is lightyears ahead of the new MB models (new 7-Series interior, new Z4 interior, etc.). MB has moved to the front of exterior designs and the back of interior designs. Meanwhile BMW and Audi are coming out with vehicles that rival MB outside, and beat them inside. And drive better.

henbmw - 11/23/2009 11:52:42 PM

+4 Boost

I agree that *most* MB interiors are lacking. Excluding the S-CL classes. Those are exquisite interiors.

Wimmer - 11/24/2009 10:52:01 AM

+4 Boost

It's amazing that JRobUSC can tell the degree of material quality of a new BMW interior just by looking at the photos. The man has some real talent obviously.

Give me a break. I've been inside the new E-Class and my family owns a W211 E320 and the new cabin is even better than that of the old W211. The materials feel and look upscale and I really don't see what makes the materials used by the competition better. Do Audi or BMW use a more high quality plastic? How can you tell? Please enlighten us. Because this whole talk about interiors is at the end of the day nothing more than a subjective issue.

You claim BMW interiors are awesome? I currently drive a 2007 BMW 118i. The interior is well made but that's about it. It doesn't feel premium at all. A 2007 Mercedes A-Class, despite not being a competitor to the 1-Series, has a better interior from my point of view. And don't give me the "It's a 118i...the 135i has a better interior..." answer because the cabin is constructed out of the same mold and the same materials. The 135i interior will be adorned with more sporty or luxury adorning materials, which liven up the cabin but in no way do they better the overall quality impression.

JRobUSC - 11/24/2009 5:49:37 PM

+2 Boost

First, I never said anything about the interior of the 1-Series, and I haven't been in an A-class to compare. For what it's worth I don't think the interior of the 1-Series is anything special, and it's easily the cheapest looking and feeling interior of any BMW sold stateside, but then again it is the cheapest car BMW sells, so my expectations are lower.

Second, you're right, I've never been inside the 2011 5-Series sedan. I have, however, been inside the 2010 5-Series GT and new 7-Series, along with the new E-class. The 5-Series sedan supposedly shares the layout and materials with both of those vehicles. Both are nicer inside than the E, which has a lot of plastic edges and just doesn't strike me as particularly "rich". I'm not saying the materials are cheap or it's not well built. I'm sure it is. Just that the design of the interior along with my perception of the materials are that the E-class is down a step from the competition now (and don't get me started on the C-class or GLK -- the C reminds me of the previous generation CTS inside, which is not a good thing).

I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 11/24/2009 11:04:25 PM

+1 Boost

Clown states he drives a 1-Series and wonders why he thinks MB has better interiors than BMW.

The VW GOLF thrashes the BMW 1-Series in Interior Quality and Fit & Finish, So does the Audi A3, and others in that segment so the 1-Series is a horrible benchmark vehicle to use.

Sometimes people make what is called an INFORMED GUESS; In this Instance i have Driven the current E-Class Sedan and E-Class Coupe, C-Class Sedan, 3-Series Sedan, New 7-Series Sedan, S-Class and CL. all 2009/10 models and I can assure you that MB is behind its German Rivals in interior quality.
All except for the S-Class and CL, with those 2 there might be those who prefer the S's Button array and style. I prefer the 7's.

HSCenterconsole - 11/23/2009 2:52:25 PM

+6 Boost

I would love to have a 535xi 6MT in my garage.

Deutschland - 11/23/2009 2:52:28 PM

-8 Boost

I think the new E-Class is much nicer, especially in the front.

FearlessFreep - 11/23/2009 2:53:26 PM

+6 Boost

Technical correction - the inline-6 will NOT be the twin-turbo engine. It will have a single, larger turbo with a twin-scroll housing and Valvetronic intake system (no throttle). Output remains 300/300 but responsiveness and emissions are both improved.

Agent00R - 11/23/2009 3:07:11 PM

-2 Boost

Yes, you're correct.

My apologies. Trying to get all this info/pics up as fast as possible for you guys.

Brembo - 11/23/2009 2:55:02 PM

+2 Boost

It looks good but it looks a stretch 3 series.

more pics at autocar.

http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/bmw-5-series/new-bmw-5-series-revealed/245248/pictures/new-bmw-5-series-revealed.aspx

enthusiastx11 - 11/23/2009 4:28:50 PM

+3 Boost

it's the reverse...looks like a slightly smaller 7-series. in fact, this car will likely be so good that it may steal sales from the 7.

JRobUSC - 11/23/2009 5:20:52 PM

+3 Boost

I said the same thing. When I saw the rear lights I was like "huh... so that's what Infiniti G35 rear lights would look like on a 3-Series trunklid". Still, overall I think it looks awesome.

_43LE - 11/23/2009 3:22:02 PM

+5 Boost

Nice, I especially like the side profile.

E92_M_Power - 11/23/2009 3:29:30 PM

+1 Boost

Finally, they put the exthaust tip side by side for 535 , Nice!!

Agent001 - 11/23/2009 3:45:20 PM

+1 Boost

Best looking rear end of anything in the class in ages!

What a beauty!

001

TopGear - 11/23/2009 5:24:37 PM

-4 Boost

I hate the way BMW plays with exhaust tips. It doesn't give prestige to bigger engine buyers. Instead, it takes away prestige from 528i and 328i buyers.

dannyjeffers - 11/23/2009 3:49:20 PM

+4 Boost

looks like an e39 from the side. that's a win in my book.

meklen - 11/23/2009 3:52:06 PM

+4 Boost

I had an E39 540i and when the new E60 pics came out it just did not do it for me. Then I saw one in person and was sold. I now have an E60 550i and my initial reaction to the F10 is I want one! I would like to see what the M kit will look like, but the car looks awesome as is.

GermanNut - 11/23/2009 3:59:34 PM

-5 Boost

This new 5-series looks good, a bit like the 335i from the back for sure, but that isn't such a bad thing. Hey, if Audi's strategy of making all its cars look the same just in bigger sizes is obviously working, BMW should just follow suit.

The big question is: Will this new 5-series finally dethrone Audi's A6 as the world's best selling mid-size luxury sedan?

Caraficionado - 11/23/2009 4:05:05 PM

+2 Boost

Great improvement over the current car. Good job BMW.

JUGNU - 11/23/2009 4:05:21 PM

+4 Boost

Front end is looking very good, the rear end not that much but still i think overall new 5 series is looking nice and elegant. Not to mention big step forward in terms of design from it's predecessor.

JUGNU

dlin - 11/23/2009 4:15:12 PM

-2 Boost

Multi-link system for front suspension? Just like my G35.

Honestly speaking, comfortable and good traction, but traditionally not as precise as MacPherson of previous generations. Wondering why.....

dlin - 11/24/2009 4:03:27 PM

+1 Boost

And switching from electro-hydraulic to pure electric steering assistance? Going sour.....

There's NO good electric steering. Period. Test E85 Z4, RX8, or IS, and you know what I'm talking about.

freeagent - 11/23/2009 4:26:04 PM

+1 Boost

Looks great. After i traded in my E39 for a Carrera because the E60 just didnt cut it for me, I'm ready to go back to the fold in a year or so. Lets hope it doesnt feel too bulky for a manual to make sense.

enthusiastx11 - 11/23/2009 4:26:35 PM

+1 Boost

LOVE IT.

beautiful design--athletic and tasteful, fabulous engines, clean-lined interior, and certain to have the same wonderful driving dynamics.

it's my next car.

lewishamiltonpimp - 11/23/2009 4:37:33 PM

+5 Boost

So much better looking than the E60 it replaces.

Nice.

Hantra - 11/23/2009 4:42:27 PM

-3 Boost

Fantastic except for the LEX-FINITY tail lamps.

theman - 11/23/2009 5:21:17 PM

+1 Boost

I knew it..I am an MB lover and a current R8 owner...I hate BMW..all of their cars are terrible and bland..BUT..I knew ever since the first spy pics that they are gonna really do some damage with their next 5 series...and they did..best in the class..i dont even want to know how the M5 will look like..great job!beauty!

DinamoR - 11/23/2009 5:22:16 PM

+5 Boost

Looks great. I'm interested in the 520d version, 50 mpg sounds amazing

rxh8me9000 - 11/23/2009 5:32:49 PM

+1 Boost

I like it,but it looks too much like a stretched 3. Cant wait for the ///M5.

ThierryHenry14 - 11/23/2009 5:46:06 PM

+5 Boost

Love the lines. It looks conservative, yet very fashionable. It looks fast sitting still...

Its a winner in my book...

cdoke - 11/23/2009 5:50:11 PM

+6 Boost

I like it; it is different without being awkward. I would like to see it in person before I state it with certainty, but this may be the most attractive car in the segment; certainly better than the E or A6. I am disappointed that it does not have a leather dash, but in all fairness only one car in the segment has one (XF).

aussiebum - 11/23/2009 8:41:09 PM

+5 Boost

I agree, a leather dash would add to the subtleness of the interior not only in touch and appearance but me also likes the smell of leather.

Denali - 11/23/2009 5:59:02 PM

+2 Boost

3 series bigger brother and the baby 7, i like

theoptimisticpessimist - 11/23/2009 6:14:19 PM

+4 Boost

How can a car company be able to build a car like the new 5er, an exercise in restraint, elanance, and grace, and at the same time build the 550 GT, which is none of those things. BMW is a paradox.

JRobUSC - 11/23/2009 6:33:53 PM

+3 Boost

I got to drive the 550 GT the other day. Granted it was a loaded sport one (it was one of the regional manager guys cars), but I was pretty shocked at how well it drove. Handled great, smooth ride, great power. And the backseats are more comfortable than a 7-Series (it had the power executive rear seats or whatever they're called). I could see people who don't want to spend $100k on a 750 getting one, especially if they're "active" (i.e. middle aged antique shoppers, retirees who travel a lot, etc.).

Agent001 - 11/23/2009 7:14:29 PM

+3 Boost

"but I was pretty shocked at how well it drove. Handled great, smooth ride, great power. And the backseats are more comfortable than a 7-Series"

Hmmm, sounds exactly like what 001 said ;)

001

theoptimisticpessimist - 11/23/2009 8:23:52 PM

+3 Boost

The other benifit of driving the cars is you don't have to look at it.

FanboyOfTheTruth - 11/23/2009 6:44:04 PM

+2 Boost

Back to the "one sausage, 3 different sizes" era of BMW again. Boring, just like Audi.

chewy - 11/23/2009 7:19:19 PM

+1 Boost

Looks good, but BMW fans can no longer say that all Audis look the same, because all of the BMWs look the same. In either case I would take 3 good looking vehicles instead of 3 ugly cars.

dotuno - 11/23/2009 8:23:00 PM

+5 Boost

If there is any criticism of the exterior design, it would be that the 2 inner creases on the hood seem excessive and unnecessary (I love smooth, flowing hoods), and the outer creases curve in too strongly. Also, the shoulder crease may have been better running the full side profile of the car...

But my goodness, this car is a stunner! The headlamps which earlier today looked soft look better in view of the whole body. The side profile is athletic AND stately. And it is champagne-worthy to note that BMW has clean, simple, horizontal rear lights again (well, they always did, but the current 3er and new 7er bothered me a bit).

synx - 11/23/2009 8:31:49 PM

+2 Boost

Rear looks amazing. 2nd best in the class after jag xf

nguyenvuminh - 11/23/2009 8:57:20 PM

+7 Boost

I'm a big MB E and S fan but have admired the BMW 3 and 5 from the 1990s (much less so with the 3 & 5 in the 2000s). I really like this 5 though. The current BMW 3 & 5 are very "flowing" (excuse my limited vocabulary) and match the BMW "performance" message. The latest MB E & S are moving back to their bank vault look to reflect the "solid" image of MB sedans in the 1980s, which is fine as that's the message they're trying to deliver for their market segment. But this BMW 5 is really nice in my mind.

Steve - 11/23/2009 9:07:08 PM

-2 Boost

MUCH better than today's Ugly Duckling 5. Still not my cup of tea, styling wise, but I am sure it will be sufficient to attract buyers. Just watch the auto press dance around, trying to find polite words for "it's a lot better looking than that turd of a 5 that BMW dished us out last time." :-)

delan - 11/23/2009 9:24:30 PM

+1 Boost

I just had an eyegasm. Love it...Love it...Love it!

TauronB2G - 11/23/2009 9:48:28 PM

+1 Boost

Definitely a larger 3 Series. I like it. They corrected the current 5's shortcomings and fixed the grills from the 7. But it looks a bit generic to me. I dunno why. I like it but it looks like the car the current 5 should have been. Just like the 7 looks like the car the last 7 should have been.
T

EL34 - 11/23/2009 9:50:52 PM

+1 Boost

The 2011 BMW 5-Series is a great looking car and I will lease one in 34 months ;-)

fatandsassy - 11/24/2009 8:29:51 AM

+3 Boost

BLAND - I mean BMW really - It looks like a large 3 series. I am so over the BMW interor as well. I just dont see the radical design improvements and "of my goodness" star features on this car. It will be lost in the fields of old 3 series and other cars. No one will look twice at this car. However a new E class will catch your attention immediately.

GermanNut - 11/24/2009 10:45:07 AM

-2 Boost

Now both BMW and Audi can be criticized for making all their cars look the same, just in different sizes.

The new 5-series really SCREAMS larger 3-series. Just check out the 5th and 6th photos from the top (for the front and side shot) and the 7th photo (for the rear shot).

Not even the BMW fanboys can claim that they don't see the 3-series similarities for the front, side, and ESPECIALLY the rear (7th photo).

At least this car looks attractive, unlike the current Bangled 5-series. I would much rather have three similar but good looking cars rather than three very different, but ugly cars.

Yonder7 - 11/25/2009 11:33:20 AM

0 Boost

I am an MB Fan, but this car looks better to me than the E in some aspects: Rear: Very Nice. Front, I like but I hate the hood so E wins my vote. Profile, 5 series all the way. Interior Quality and Materials, they are even. Interior design, 5 series win, the only two things that should be relocated are the cupholders and the Center display that should be in front of the driver. Finaly I want to see the M5, I'm 100% sure that will be phenomenal.

Godgore - 11/27/2009 12:50:50 PM

+1 Boost

Gorgeous interior! Although I will agree, the rear is reminiscent of an Infiniti M.