The new crash results for 2011 models are in, and only the BMW 5 Series and Hyundai Sonata got a 5-star rating overall.

The government-run tests were the first that employed a “female” crash-test dummy, and a direct crash into a pole. The vehicles were rated from 1 to 5 stars, which are based on a weighted average of risk of injury in the front and side crashes and rollover resistance compared to other vehicles. The only vehicles to earn 5 stars were Hyundai and BMW, and were among the first 34 vehicles tested this new way.

These new tests were put in place in order to give shoppers more information, since high scores had become so common.”More stars equal safer cars,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “Through new tests, better crash data and higher standards, we are making the safety ratings tougher and more meaningful for consumers.”

Most surprising were the results for the 2011 Toyota Camry, the best-selling car in the U.S. that got just 3 stars overall (the 2010 model, which was nearly identical, got top scores last year). The only other car to get a 3-star rating was the Camry Hybrid.

Placing at the bottom was the 2011 Nissan Versa, which was also the only vehicle to score just 2 stars overall. The blame of this poor score, says Nissan, is the Versa’s old design, and the company is working on ways to improve the car’s crash-test scores without a full redesign. The automaker believes that the 2011 Juke, which is based on the Versa platform, should score higher as it’s a newer iteration.

As for the rest of the vehicles, the remaining 2011 vehicles that were tested ranked with 4 stars overall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is planning on testing 22 more 2011 models.

See after the jump for the full list of models tested under the new 2011 rules:

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You can bet that BMW is celebrating this win. The redesigned 2011 BMW 5 series just earned good ratings in all four safety evaluations, garnering it an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick status among large cars.

Adding to the accolades is the fact that this first 5 series ever to earn the Top Safety Pick award, not to mention that its also the first BMW to accomplish this feat since the Institute implemented a new rollover test requirement.

Vehicles that earn Top Safety Picks earn the highest ratings for front, side, rollover, and rear crash protection, and that have electronic stability control (standard on the BMW) 5 series.

The biggest improvement was made with the good rating for side impact protection – the previous generation 5 was rated only marginal in the same test. An IIHS side impact test represents a hit from an SUV or pickup.

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Read AutoGuide’s 2011 BMW 5 Series First Drive by Clicking Here

According to Jalopnik, BMW advertisers in Hong Kong took advantage of an Audi dealer’s storefront by hanging a large-format ad for the all-new 5-Series right above the showroom.

The two German luxury carmakers have a history of one-upmanship with regards to advertising, and we’re not surprised given the highly competitive, put-LEDs-on-everything segment.

We wonder how Audi will respond…may we suggest hiring the stunt driving team from Ronin and jumping an S8 over the BMW dealership? If you don’t know what we’re on about, check out the video after the jump…

[Source: Jalopnik via Chris Junker]

With it’s world premiere at the Geneva Auto Show just a few weeks ago, BMW unveiled the new 2011 5 Series in front of a U.S. audience for the first time today at the New York Auto Show. And the model on display was non-other than the range-topping (for now) 550i. With styling cues from both the new 7 Series and current 3 Series, it looks more stately than the outgoing model and we’d confidently say it’s also far better looking.

The 550i model boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 400-hp and 450 ft-lbs of torque, enabling it to hit 60 mph in just 5 seconds. As for the 535i, it gets BMW’s excellent twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six motor for 300-hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque. Both models will be available with either a standard six-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. A “Sport Automatic” 8-speed will also be optional. BMW is expected to deliver a 528i later on, which will debut with a 240-hp inline-six.

In terms of improvements to handling, the new 5 Series gets a completely new front suspension that uses a multi-link setup as opposed to a strut setup. This system is also found on the new 7 Series, which is no coincidence, as both the new 5 and 7 Series share the same platform. Along with the electric power steering system, the new 5 Series gets the Integral Active Steering setup as found on the 5 Series GT, which turns turns the rear wheels. In low speed situations, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels for better maneuverability, while at speed the rear wheels turn in the same direction to deliver better cornering and stability. And to further improve performance, there’s an electronic limited slip differential, which comes into play once DSC (stability control) is completely shut off.

Real driving enthusiasts will opt for the Sport Package with Adaptive Drive. This package includes Driving Dynamics Control (same as on the 7 Series and Z4), which lets the driver choose from Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ driving settings, which control the throttle response, transmission shift points, power steering assistance level and traction control. It also includes Dynamic Damping Control, which constantly changes the car’s shock settings and includes a 10mm lower ride height. Finally, the sport package includes Active Roll Stabilization, with hydraulic stabilizer bars that actually firm up when body lean is detected.

Inside, the new 5er gets BMW’s latest iDrive system, which on the 7 Series is much improved and quite easy to use. The iDrive setup includes a 7-inch LCD screen, or a 10.2-inch screen if the Navigation Package box is checked. The larger 116-inch wheelbase makes for a roomier interior and to help keep passengers comfortable, the car’s active cruise control now has a feature that will slow the car in a corner if the vehicle detects the curve is to extreme. Another great tech item is the heads-up display that can even show some navigation instructions.

There’s also plenty of safety features in the new 5 Series like Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Headlights that switch to hi-beam if necessary. A larger section of the taillights will also illuminate under hard braking to ensure those behind you will know you are stopping. The Active Cruise Control system also includes Frontal Collision Warning that will warn the driver of an impending impact and actually apply the brakes if he does not act.

Additional highlights include new Top View and Side View displays of the car for ideal parking, which works in conjunction with BMW Parking Assistant.

Pricing it set at $50,475 for the 535i and $60,575 for the 550i.

GALLERY: 2011 BMW 5 Series

Ahead of it’s North American premiere at the New York Auto Show next week, BMW has just announced pricing for the new 2011 5 Series model. The MSRP for a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six-powered 535i model will start at $50,475 and jump to $60,575 for the 550i and it’s 400-hp, twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8. (Pricing includes $875 for shipping). Both models are slightly lower than the outgoing 5 Series, although with Mercedes having dropped its E-Class pricing considerably, the 5 Series is now the more expensive buy.

As always with a German luxury sedan, options will drive that price much higher. A premium package will add $1,800 to the 535i, while a Premium 2 package will add $4,900 to the 535i and $2,800 to the 5550i. Adding Nappa leather will also add $2,450 or $1,000 respectively. Other pricey options include a rear-seat entertainment system for $2,200, Adaptive Cruise Control for $2,400 and night vision with pedestrian detection for $2,600. Oh, and don’t forget the $2,200 Sport Package that includes Driving Dynamics Control (same as on the 7 Series and Z4), which lets the driver choose from Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ driving settings, which control the throttle response, transmission shift points, power steering assistance level and traction control. It also includes Dynamic Damping Control, which constantly changes the car’s shock settings and includes a 10mm lower ride height. Finally, the sport package includes Active Roll Stabilization, with hydraulic stabilizer bars that actually firm up when body lean is detected.

Highlights for the new 5 Series include an 8-speed automatic transmission, a new multi-link front suspension, an electronic limited slip differential, a heads up display and a new iDrive system (that is vastly improved and which we thoroughly enjoyed on the new 7 Series).

For more info on the new 5 Series after its North American premiere, click the link below on or after March 31st.

2010 New York Auto Show Coverage

GALLERY: 2011 BMW 5 Series

Official release after the jump:

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It seems like its been quite a while since BMW announced the new 5 Series, but the German automaker’s Geneva Auto Show press conference has provided us our first chance to get a look at this all-new model. The luxury sedan has grown for 2011 and looks it, while taking styling cues from both the current 3 Series and 7 Series.

When it initially goes on sale in North America, the 5 Series will be offered in both 550i and 535i trim. The 550 model boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 400-hp and 450 ft-lbs of torque, enabling it to hit 60 mph in just 5 seconds. As for the 535i, it gets BMW’s excellent twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six motor for 300-hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque. Both models will be available with either a standard six-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. A “Sport Automatic” 8-speed will also be optional.

No fuel economy numbers have been released yet, but BMW has made significant efficiency improvements with “green” technologies like electric power steering and Brake Energy Regeneration, where the alternator only recharges the car’s batteries under braking. The tall gears of the 8-speed transmission should also help deliver much improved fuel economy.

Those really in search of the best fuel mileage will, however, want to wait for the 528i, which will debut later with a 240-hp inline-six. At the Geneva Show, BMW also showed a European 520d, that gets an incredible 47 mpg on the European Test Cycle.

In terms of improvements to handling, the new 5 Series gets a completely new front suspension that uses a multi-link setup as opposed to a strut setup. This system is also found on the new 7 Series, which is no coincidence, as both the new 5 and 7 Series share the same platform. Along with the electric power steering system, the new 5 Series gets the Integral Active Steering setup as found on the 5 Series GT, which turns turns the rear wheels. In low speed situations, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels for better maneuverability, while at speed the rear wheels turn in the same direction to deliver better cornering and stability. And to further improve performance, there’s an electronic limited slip differential, which comes into play once DSC (stability control) is completely shut off.

Real driving enthusiasts will opt for the Sport Package with Adaptive Drive. This package includes Driving Dynamics Control (same as on the 7 Series and Z4), which lets the driver choose from Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ driving settings, which control the throttle response, transmission shift points, power steering assistance level and traction control. It also includes Dynamic Damping Control, which constantly changes the car’s shock settings and includes a 10mm lower ride height. Finally, the sport package includes Active Roll Stabilization, with hydraulic stabilizer bars that actually firm up when body lean is detected.

Inside, the new 5er gets BMW’s latest iDrive system, which on the 7 Series is much improved and quite easy to use. The iDrive setup includes a 7-inch LCD screen, or a 10.2-inch screen if the Navigation Package box is checked. The larger 116-inch wheelbase makes for a roomier interior and to help keep passengers comfortable, the car’s active cruise control now has a feature that will slow the car in a corner if the vehicle detects the curve is to extreme.

Another great tech item is the heads-up display that can even show some navigation instructions.

There’s also plenty of safety features in the new 5 Series like Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Headlights that switch to hi-beam if necessary. A larger section of the taillights will also illuminate under hard braking to ensure those behind you will know you are stopping. The Active Cruise Control system also includes Frontal Collision Warning that will warn the driver of an impending impact and actually apply the brakes if he does not act.

Additional highlights include new Top View and Side View displays of the car for ideal parking, which works in conjunction with BMW Parking Assistant.

GALLERY: BMW 5 Series

BMW has officially debuted the all-new 2011 5 Series, luxury sedan with a long very long list of innovative features and, importantly, a brand new look. We honestly can’t make up our minds if it looks more 7 Series or more like the current 3 Series. Either way, it’s a huge improvement.

At launch the 5 Series will be offered in both 550i and 535i trim. The 550 model boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 400-hp and 450 ft-lbs of torque, enabling it to hit 60 mph in just 5 seconds. As for the 535i, it gets BMW’s excellent twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six motor for 300-hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque. Both models will be available with either a standard six-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. A “Sport Automatic” 8-speed will also be optional.

No fuel economy numbers have been released yet, but BMW has made significant efficiency improvements with “green” technologies like electric power steering and Brake Energy Regeneration, where the alternator only recharges the car’s batteries under braking. The tall gears of the 8-speed transmission should also help deliver much improved fuel economy.

Those really in search of the best fuel mileage will, however, want to wait for the 528i, which will debut later with a 240-hp inline-six.

In terms of improvements to handling, the new 5 Series gets a completely new front suspension that uses a multi-link setup as opposed to a strut setup. This system is also found on the new 7 Series, which is no coincidence, as both the new 5 and 7 Series share the same platform. Along with the electric power steering system, the new 5 Series gets the Integral Active Steering setup as found on the 5 Series GT, which turns turns the rear wheels. In low speed situations, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels for better maneuverability, while at speed the rear wheels turn in the same direction to deliver better cornering and stability. And to further improve performance, there’s an electronic limited slip differential, which comes into play once DSC (stability control) is completely shut off.

Real driving enthusiasts will opt for the Sport Package with Adaptive Drive. This package includes Driving Dynamics Control (same as on the 7 Series and Z4), which lets the driver choose from Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ driving settings, which control the throttle response, transmission shift points, power steering assistance level and traction control. It also includes Dynamic Damping Control, which constantly changes the car’s shock settings and includes a 10mm lower ride height. Finally, the sport package includes Active Roll Stabilization, with hydraulic stabilizer bars that actually firm up when body lean is detected.

Inside, the new 5er gets BMW’s latest iDrive system, which on the 7 Series is much improved and quite easy to use. The iDrive setup includes a 7-inch LCD screen, or a 10.2-inch screen if the Navigation Package box is checked. The larger 116-inch wheelbase makes for a roomier interior and to help keep passengers comfortable, the car’s active cruise control now has a feature that will slow the car in a corner if the vehicle detects the curve is to extreme.

Another great tech item is the heads-up display that can even show some navigation instructions.

There’s also plenty of safety features in the new 5 Series like Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Headlights that switch to hi-beam if necessary. A larger section of the taillights will also illuminate under hard braking to ensure those behind you will know you are stopping. The Active Cruise Control system also includes Frontal Collision Warning that will warn the driver of an impending impact and actually apply the brakes if he does not act.

Additional highlights include new Top View and Side View displays of the car for ideal parking, which works in conjunction with BMW Parking Assistant.

GALLERY: 2011 BMW 5 Series

That covers the generalities, but if you want even more, check after the jump for all the details:

Continue Reading…

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Promising a full unveiling on November 23rd, BMW has released a short video to tease us on the reveal of the all-new 2011 5 Series. The video doesn’t actually show any part of the car, but rather it uses a “kinetic sculpture” from the BMW Museum to form the silhouette of the vehicle.

Like all of BMW’s recent vehicles, we should expect to see a slow evolution away from the controversial Bangle designs. Also expect to see a larger grille and a more flat-fronted nose. It is likely that a new engine will debut in the vehicle as well as several familiar powerplants – like the twin-turbo 3.0-liter I6. An eight-speed automatic is also expected.

With the car’s November 23rd release date, it’s a strong possibility that BMW will use the LA Auto Show to debut its latest model.

The next generation BMW 5 Series will be offered with not just one, but two hybrid powertrains.

According to the BMWBlog’s company insiders, the two hybrids will follow two very different paths, with one using a similar setup to the ActiveHybrid 7 Series and the other following in the footsteps of the X6 ActiveHybrid, but with a 3.0-liter diesel V8 in place of the X6′s V8. That being said, it’s unlikely the diesel motor will be sold in North America.

Design wise, the next 5 Series is expected to look smaller, to help differentiate it from the large Audi A6 and Mercedes E-Class. To help achieve this goal it will use an elongated version of the twin-kidney grille.

As for the rest of the design, it is still a mystery, but it is expected that very few of the 5 Series GT’s body panels will be used on the standard 5 series.

BMW also plans to make the vehicle lighter than its predecessor by using new processes to manufacturing the chassis, while using lighter materials for things like the water pump and transmission case. In addition, aerodynamics will be improved though a new wheel design that will cut down on drag at speed.

We expect to learn more about the upcoming 5 Series at next month’s Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: BMWBlog]