The rumours have been rife and the Internet has been full of leaked photos, but now officially BMW have released information about the new 5 series. This is the sixth generation of BMW’s 5 series and for the first time has auto start-stop technology and the option of an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The new BMW 5 Series Saloon has been styled to reflect its almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution and has the longest wheelbase in its class at 2,968mm. This extra length means an extra 13mm of knee room for rear passengers and it has a 520-litre boot with the option to specify 40:20:40 split folding rear seats.

The use of Black Panel technology on the instrument panel and centre console adds an extra touch of luxury to the interior.

Buyers of the BMW 5 Series Saloon will be able to choose between three diesel and four petrol engines. The most popular model is expected to be the 520d. This 1,995cc four cylinder diesel accelerates from zero to 62mph in 8.1 seconds before going onto a top speed of 141mph. Fuel economy is great with a combined fuel consumption figure of 56.5mpg.

For those who want power there is the twin-turbocharger 550i with its 407hp 4,395cc V8 engine. It does zero to 62mph time of just 5.0 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

The very first BMW 5 Series Saloon appeared in 1972 with BMW’s first diesel engine appearing in a Five, while other generations introduced innovations such as all aluminium suspension, Head-up Display and Active Steering.