Cabriolet - Brian Jessel BMW

“
The innovative
luggage
partition easily
enables you to
increase the
trunk capacity
from 440-litres
to 1,700-liters.
”
38 brianJESSEL WINTER 2010
What makes this new vehicle so exceptional? First of all, the long-wheelbase provides limousine
levels of interior space and ride refinement. The Gran Turismo’s distinctive shape offers length that
nearly matches that of the BMW 7 series, creating a more spacious feeling for its occupants. The
1.56 meter vehicle height means that the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo has a lower roofline than the
BMW X5, yet it still has the same headroom. Passengers are not the only ones who benefit from
BMW’s focus on comfort and functionality: the Gran Turismo’s semi-command driving position
allows for ease of entry and greater forward visibility.
For those of you who like to travel or participate in sports, this new vehicle offers the second largest
luggage capacity after the BMW X5. The innovative luggage partition easily enables you to increase
the trunk capacity from 440-litres to 1,700-liters. In addition, the dual tailgate creates flexible storage
options. Opening the small, sedan-like luggage compartment lid beneath the rear window with the
tailgate remaining closed, the driver and passengers are able to conveniently load the rear
compartment without causing any unpleasant noise, drafts or changes in temperature within the
passenger compartment. To load large and bulky items, the large tailgate can be opened for
maximum convenience.
The 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which was
previously only available in the BMW 760i twelve-cylinder luxury sedan. This high-tech automatic
combines gearshift comfort, dynamic performance and great efficiency. The BMW 5 Series Gran
Turismo houses the most advanced turbo engine technology, allowing it to set new standards in
performance, economy and emission management (0-100 km/h 5.5sec, 300HP/600Nm/lb-ft; EU5
Standard: CO2 emissions 263g/km; Fuel consumption 11.2L/100km combined; 550i). BMW
Efficient Dynamics are standard features in the Gran Turismo; this includes: Brake Energy
Regeneration, Active Aerodynamics, low resistance tires, intelligent lightweight design and intelligent
energy management.
The ultra modern suspension technology of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is designed for both
engaging driving dynamics and grand touring comfort. Integral Active Steering is available as an
option, combining active steering of the front wheels with rear-wheel steering dependent on driving
environments and current road conditions to enhance safety and performance.
One of my favorite standard engine features is the Dynamic Drive Control that influences not only
the gearshift dynamics, but also the gas pedal and steering assistance control map. In combination
with optional Adaptive Drive, this means superior suspension function. Drivers have the choice of
NORMAL, SPORT, SPORT+, and COMFORT modes, which they can select directly on the
Dynamic Drive Control button on the centre console. With this easy selection system you can have
your cars performance match your mood or driving conditions.
One of the things that most excites me about the new 5 Series Gran Turismo is the design—when
you drive down the street in this car, people really turn their heads. I love the way the sleek surfaces
on the front and rear door panels merge smoothly into one another while the horizontal arrangement
of the instrument panel enhances the luxurious ambience. Good looks do not mean that comfort is
compromised: spacious seats, headroom and elbow freedom provide the highest standard typically
found only in luxury performance class vehicles. The rear seats can be adjusted individually to meet
the greatest demands in luxury comfort. Individually adjustable Comfort Seats with even more
adjustments at the rear are available as an option to maximize the seat positioning. That said, comfort
is also accompanied by performance and safety: the slightly elevated seating position, the clear,
structured arrangement of the controls, BMW’s new iDrive displayed on a 10.2-inch LCD Control
Display with standard cockpit Black Panel technology helps improve the driver’s control at all times.
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the practicality of an SUV/SAV and the luxury of a 7
Series in a design that reminds me of a coupé. This vehicle is a great choice for those who enjoy
innovative design and new concepts. I don’t mean to keep you on the edge of your seats but this
car is expected to launch in 2010, and when it does, I hope that you will come in to Brian Jessel BMW
to experience the ride for yourself.
brianJESSEL WINTER 2010 39