THE AUTO LIVERY
Written by Andre James
With dealerships slowly reopening across the country, automotive manufacturers have begun rolling out new models for delivery later this year.
BMW
First introduced in 1972, the 2021 version of BMW's 5 Series represents the 7th generation. This 5 Series Sedan heralds improvements in exterior and interior design, aerodynamics and technology, and a new 48-volt mild hybrid system.
The most striking feature on the exterior is the new BMW kidney grille design with resculpted headlamps. Taller and broader, the grille reaches further down into the front bumper cover and is surrounded by a one-piece grille element. Adaptive headlights are slimmer in profile and feature two L-shaped daytime driving light elements on each side. Standard trapezoidal tailpipe finishers integrated into the lower bumper area, and rear L-shaped taillights with black edging and three-dimensional lenses define the back end.
Comprised of a 12.3" digital instrument display and a 12.3" digital central touchscreen control display, the Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive7 is a highlight of the interior. Standard on all four-cylinder and six-cylinder models is Perforated SensaTec upholstery with contrast stitching. All models feature standard Sport seats (M Multi-contour seats on M550i xDrive) and a 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat.
All BMW four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines feature BMW's latest TwinPower turbocharging technology. Six-cylinder engine models of the 5 Series benefit from a new mild-hybrid system with a 48V starter-generator and a second battery that significantly increases how Brake Energy Regeneration is utilized. A unique feature of the mild hybrid system is the ability to charge the 48V battery from the generator while driving at a constant speed.
The 2021 BMW 530e and 530e xDrive Sedans receive enhanced performance from the latest generation of eDrive technology. A 181 hp 2.0-liter gasoline engine complements a 107 hp electric drive unit integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission.
The first deliveries are scheduled for July 2020. MSRP pricing ranges from $54,200 for the 530i Sedan to $76,800 for the M550ixDrive Sedan.
MERCEDES-BENZ
Mercedes-AMG continues to strengthen its distinctive range with the new E 53 Coupe and Cabriolet. "With specific measures on the exterior and in the interior, we have re-sharpened the brand identity somewhat, and we are continuing to drive forward the revision of our entire E-Class family successively. For lifestyle-oriented customer groups with discerning requirements in terms of performance and efficiency, both two-door models from Affalterbach are the perfect offerings," said Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The completely redesigned front end bears the iconic AMG- specific radiator grille with vertical slats, emphasizing its performance credentials and clear membership in the AMG family. At the rear, a key enhancement is the round twin tailpipe trim elements, available in silver chrome or high-gloss black (part of the optional AMG Night Package).
Inside the cabin, large displays, a new AMG Performance steering wheel, and the MBUX infotainment system with AMG- specific functions and displays reinforce the luxury ambiance characteristic of AMG.
The AMG-enhanced 3.0L inline-6 turbo engine with an electric auxiliary compressor generates an output of 429 hp and a peak torque of 384 lb-ft. An EQ Boost starter-generator can briefly provide up to an additional 21 hp of output and up to 184 lb-ft of torque, while also feeding the 48 V on-board electrical system. Other highlights of the new models include the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and the variable all-wheel- drive system, AMG Performance 4MATIC+.
MSRP for the 2021 Mercedes-AMG E53 Coupe is $74,950 and $82,645 for the Cabriolet
