Tamed-Down Neue Klasse Design for Facelift of BMW 5-Series Touring
The next major update for the BMW 5-Series is taking shape, and the wagon-bodied prototype in these pictures surprises with its more restrained approach to the Bavarian automaker's Neue Klasse design language. Also tamer compared to earlier test vehicles, the long roof in question reinforces a growing theme surrounding BMW's upcoming mid-cycle refreshes.
Internal combustion models adopt Neue Klasse stylistic elements without being turned into twins of the Neue Klasse model range. Previous development vehicles previewing the facelifted 5-Series hinted at a more dramatic transformation, leading us to believe that BMW is planning an extensive visual makeover.
More recent prototypes, including this wagon, indicate moderation. The overall silhouette remains unmistakably G61, and the bodysides are hardly different from the outgoing iteration. Where mid-cycle upgrades become apparent is at the front of the midsize estate, with slimmer lighting units and a flatter kidney grille.
Better integrated than before, the revised lights and grille also give the impression of width. While it may be thoroughly camouflaged, the rear end tells a similar story. What is visible beyond the camouflage indicates revised graphics and a cleaner overall presentation, with the rear bumper also benefiting from better surfacing than before.
Whereas the exterior changes appear evolutionary, the cabin is undergoing transformative changes directly influenced by the Neue Klasse-based i3 and iX3. Just like the latest generation of the X5, which uses a heavily updated CLAR platform instead of Neue Klasse underpinnings, the steering wheel-framed instrument cluster will be replaced by Panoramic Vision. Specifically, a dark strip that runs pillar-to-pillar along the base of the windshield, this futuristic setup is designed to project driving information, sat-nav prompts and customizable widgets in the driver's line of sight.
A larger central touchscreen with iDrive X complements Panoramic Vision with integrated touch and haptic feedback, along with advanced voice control for good measure. As for the bad news, Operating System X and Panoramic Vision will result in the elimination of the iDrive rotary controller on the center console.
An optional front passenger screen is likely coming as well, plus new steering wheel designs featuring touch surfaces with haptic feedback. Additional tech-forward changes are expected in the form of more advanced semi-autonomous driving aids. Under the skin, anticipated improvements would be the Adaptive Chassis Control system, combining two-axle adaptive air suspension and continuously variable dampers, and recalibrated integral steering.
In the case of the i5, look forward to sixth-generation eDrive technology, including more efficient drive units and cylindrical battery cells. Preliminary information suggests that BMW intends to start 5-Series Touring facelift production at some point in July 2027, making it a '28 model.
As ever, prospective customers will be presented with a variety of mild- and plug-in hybrid powertrain options, including an electrified V8 for the M5 Touring.
Trying to Beat Porsche on the 'Ring: the Denza Z9 GT Xtreme
Already one of the most outrageous shooting brakes out there, the Denza Z9 GT will soon be lapping the German Nürburgring racetrack faster than any series-production shooting brake. Spotted testing without camo, this prototype is a dedicated high-performance variant that BYD is believed to market as the Xtreme. The Denza brand has not officially confirmed that nameplate, though.
It is not exactly sure what is hiding under the wildly dramatic bodywork. From a visual standpoint, the most obvious change is the aerodynamic package, beginning with the more aggressive front bumper with enlarged intakes.
An extended front splitter is also present, as are deeply sculpted skirts and large aerodynamic extensions around the lower body. All in all, the motorsport-oriented stance is uncanny. Sitting on dark multi-spoke wheels mounted with high-performance rubber, the Z9 GT Xtreme in these pictures also rocks a huge wing.
The swan-neck-style rear wing stretches across much of the vehicle's width, ending in large endplates. Underneath it lies a significantly enlarged aerodynamic diffuser and wheel-arch-integrated ducting that further distinguishes the Xtreme from the punchiest Z9 GT on sale to date. Equipped with a roll cage, this prototype could very well generate close to 2,000-plus hp from a tri-motor setup. If that proves right, the Z9 GT Xtreme would best everything in the segment, including the Manthey Kit-equipped Porsche Taycan Turbo GT.
While it's clear that BYD is targeting a new lap record, it remains to be seen by how much the '27 Denza Z9 GT Xtreme outperforms the corner-carving rival from Germany. The visible hardware makes the prototype vehicle's purpose hard to misunderstand, with Denza going for a lot more in-your-face aero upgrades than Porsche and Manthey did with the Taycan.
In standard trim, the 230-kW front electric motor of the Z9 GT joins dual 310-kW rear motors to produce a combined 850 kW, resulting in either 1,156 metric or 1,140 mechanical hp. Its peak torque is also incredible, and the 0-62 mph acceleration is hypercar-level impressive.
Translating sheer straight-line acceleration into Nürburgring dominance requires exceptional chassis and suspension componentry, as well as rear-axle steering and clever torque-vectoring logic. Most likely, the Xtreme is also equipped with dual-chamber air suspension as part of the DiSus-A intelligent body control system.
Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
