A Hybrid Focused on Driving Dynamics

While hybrid vehicles are generally produced with environmental performance in mind, BMW, which champions "the ultimate driving machine," has long used the name "ActiveHybrid" for its hybrid models, promoting them as vehicles that pursue not only environmental consciousness but also driving pleasure.

The newly announced ActiveHybrid 5, a hybrid version of the 5 Series, is no exception and is designed with driving performance in mind.

The engine is an inline six-cylinder unit that has already won the Engine of the Year award twice. It is the same 3-liter gasoline engine found in many BMW models since the 335i, launched in 2006, which features twin-scroll turbocharging, direct injection, and Valvetronic, and has received high acclaim. Peak output remains unchanged at 225kW (306PS) and maximum torque at 400Nm. This is combined with an electric motor with a rated output of 40kW (55PS) and 210Nm of torque, delivering a system output of 250kW (340PS) and a maximum torque of 450Nm.

Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, where the upper gears are overdrives, the result is a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.9 seconds, among the fastest in its sedan segment. Simultaneously, environmental performance has been significantly improved, with average fuel economy ranging from 14.3 to 15.6 km/l and CO2 emissions between 149 and 163 g/km.

Capable of Approximately 4km on Electric Power Alone

The electric motor, a key feature of the ActiveHybrid 5, is remarkably compact and housed within the transmission casing. However, the battery is quite large, encroaching on luggage space. The trunk capacity is reduced to 375 liters, 145 liters less than the existing 5 Series sedan.

The high-voltage battery, composed of 96 battery cells, has a usable power capacity of 675Wh. This powerful battery allows for an electric-only driving range of 4km at speeds up to 60km/h. Additionally, a sailing mode, also featured in the Porsche Panamera and Cayenne, is available. This mode disengages the combustion engine during braking up to 160km/h and completely separates it from the driveshaft.

The interior is largely shared with the standard 5 Series. The operating status of the drive components is displayed on a model-specific display in the instrument cluster and the control display of the BMW ActiveHybrid 5. In addition to energy flow and regeneration displays, a graphic in the tachometer area shows the electric motor's boost function during acceleration. Furthermore, the iDrive menu provides information on the battery's charge status and the operating transitions between the engine and electric motor during driving.

The chassis features a front double-wishbone suspension, an integral rear axle, electromechanical power steering, and Servotronic for speed-sensitive steering assistance. Dynamic Damper Control, including electronically controlled dampers, is available as an option.

While pricing and other details have yet to be announced, it is undoubtedly a hybrid that embodies BMW's "driving pleasure."

BMW Active Hybrid 5
Body Dimensions: Length 4,899 x Width 1,860 x Height 1,464mm
Wheelbase: 2,968mm
Engine: 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder turbocharged
Max Output (Engine): 225kW (306ps) / 5,800rpm
Max Output (Motor): 40kW (55ps)
Max Torque (Engine): 400Nm / 1,200–5,000rpm
Max Torque (Motor): 210Nm
System Max Output: 250kW (340ps)
System Max Torque: 450Nm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 14.3–15.6 km/l
CO2 Emissions: 149–163 g/km
*Fuel economy and CO2 emissions are based on data from the country of origin.