Motor briefs
First images of BMW's 'softer look' next-generation 5 Series
THESE IMAGES of the new BMW 5 Series undergoing pre-production road tests are the clearest look yet at the future design of the next genearion of the car, due for launch by the end of this year.
Under development with the internal codename “F10”, the next-generation BMW 5 Series will soften the harder lines of the current E60 with more conventional headlights and a cleaner front-end design. New European pedestrian safety standards are expected to drastically alter the design of cars for the worse, but BMW will not only maintain its classic twin-kidney grille design, it will also reduce the length of the front overhang.
As is typical of most recent BMW redesigns, this 5-series will add some space between the wheels. The overall length will grow by less than 2cm, while its height will be reduced slightly and its width increased by a fraction.
Under the hood, it is expected to use variations of existing engines in BMW’s line-up.
Base power will likely come from a 2.5-litre straight-6, while top-range models will use the current 4.8-litre V8. A wild card could be thrown into the mix if BMW combines its latest turbo technology with a V8 of smaller displacement. Also in the works is a more powerful version of the M5’s 5.0-litre V10.
Jaguar's new-look XJ set for launch
JAGUAR HAS started its teaser campaign for the launch of the new look XJ. While only the aerial shot was released, information from the firm along with more detailed shots of the car undergoing final tests, published in Motors over recent weeks, clearly indicate the design will be heavily influenced by the firm’s incredibly popular XF.
The traditional three-box look that has been around for decades as the silhouette of the XJ is being discarded for a sleeker, more coupe look. This is in keeping with the brand’s decision to cast off the tradtional image and target a younger design-conscious market. In no other model is the balance between tradition and modernity more important for the brand, so the official unveiling on July 9th will be eagerly awaited.
For now, we know the car will go on sale at the end of the year, it will feature the next generation of Jaguar’s aluminium body architecture and there will be a choice of petrol and diesel powertrains.