Joining the mid-size luxury Hybrid segment in a couple months will be the new BMW 5-Series entry, the ActiveHybrid5. The new BMW Hybrid is arriving to an increasingly competitive stable which includes the 2013 Lexus GS 450h, Infiniti M35h and even the Porsche Panamera Hybrid.
The ActiveHybrid 5 combines its turbocharged in-line 6-cylinder engine and a parallel Hybrid system that drives power through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Total system power is 335hp and BMW claims a healthy 0-60 time of 5.7 seconds. The ActiveHybrid5 will arrive in March as a 2012 model with a starting base MSRP of $61,845.
The gasoline engine itself delivers up to 300hp. A 54 hp electric motor is packaged between the 8-speed transmission and the gasoline engine. With a lithium-ion battery the ActiveHybrid5 will be able to drive in EV mode up to 37 mph. The system manages power of both sources to provide seamless transitions of either or both in driving.
Like many Hybrid cars the electric motor acts both as a generator feeding energy into the high-voltage battery and boosts power for full acceleration. The gasoline engine can be disconnected and shut off during coasting at speeds up to 100mph too.
The operating status of the power train components is shown in displays unique to the ActiveHybrid 5. These are located in the instrument cluster, the Control Display, as well as the energy flow and energy recuperation display. There is an additional gauge next to the tachometer which shows the boost being provided by the electric motor during acceleration
Exterior design elements that set the ActiveHybrid 5 apart from other BMW 5-Series sedans include emblems on the C-pillars, special coloring for the grille, and matte chrome tailpipes. Available are optional 18-inch wheels designed for high aerodynamic efficiency.
The ActiveHybrid5 of course comes loaded full of all the goodness that has made the BMW 5-Series a stellar sport sedan. Interior ergonomics and features are top drawer with hundreds of features to lengthy to list here. Suffice it to say, it has it all baby. The handling and chasses refinement is expected to be trademark BMW as well.
How it will compare in efficiency and performance to its main rivals is yet to be measured. The Infiniti claims the top power among its peers with a total system output of 360hp, though the Panamera Hybrid has 380 hp. The Lexus GS 450h is close at 338hp however and will be priced pretty closely to the BMW’s $61,845.
