We spot BMW's new 5 Series

Yahoo! Cars has spotted BMW's next 5 Series out and about prior to its 2010 launch. Driving on an alpine route on a car launch we chanced upon the new saloon being tested by a pair of engineers. Parked at the side of the road and wearing minimal disguising it's possible to see just how the new 5 Series will look when it's introduced next year.

BMW appears to be playing safe with the saloon's styling, the controversial shape of the Chris Bangle designed current car making way for a more generic 3 Series-like profile and toned-down rear styling. The boldest styling detail is the front, which gets a more menacing look with a wider double kidney grille and sleek headlight units. The new car is expected to be unveiled at a motor show soon, Los Angeles, Detroit and Geneva all possible venues for the revealing of this important new BMW model.

The engine line up should follow the existing range but with enhancements improving power, torque and efficiency. Helping achieve this will be BMW's EfficientDynamics which will include stop-start technology, regenerative braking and on-demand systems to ensure the new 5 Series will be among the cleanest and most economical cars in its class. Due in showrooms in 2010, the range will be expanded with estate models and an M flagship after the saloon's launch - the latter expected to bin the current V10 powerplant and instead use a version of the twin-turbo V8 that features in the X5M and X6M SUVs.

Kyle Fortune