BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo launched in the Middle East
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BMW has added a new grand tourer to its Middle East line up in the in the form of the new 2010 5 Series Gran Turismo (GT). Launched internationally in 2009, the GT blends conventional body styles and is closest in definition to a coupe crossover. BMW’s objective while designing the new GT was to give it the head room of an X5 and legroom comparable to that found in the 7 Series. The GT already has competition in the market in the form of the cheaper Audi A5 Sportback. Immediately recognisable as a BMW, the GT features group standard design elements like the upright kidney grille and dual round headlights with LED corona daytime running lights. A high stance makes entry and exit easier while a two-piece tailgate aids loading and unloading. The new GT boasts of a long list of safety features including Driving Dynamic Control, ‘Integral Active Steering, lane change and lane departure warning and adaptive headlights. The GT can also be ordered with a rear seat DVD entertainment system with dual screen integrated in the back of the front head rests. The GT is priced at 315,000AED for the 535i and 435,000AED for the 550i.
The GT is available in the UAE powered by BMW’s new twin-turbo engines; an inline six cylinder, 306bhp unit in the 535i and a 407bhp V8 in the top end 550i. BMW claims the 550i can accelerate from 0-100kph in 5.5 seconds. Both engines are mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
