5 Series

	For 2001, the 5 Series receives a discreet facelift, the introduction of an even more powerful, high-torque 3.0-liter direct-injection diesel in the 530d, head airbags for the rear-seat passengers, and the Park Distance Control system.

The 5 Series models for 2001 are the 520i, 525i and 530i gasoline models and the 520d and 530d diesel models. Here are the specifications for the new 5 Series gasoline engines:

• The 520i has the 2.2 liter engine with 170 hp and 155 lb.ft. of torque (125 kW and 210 Nm at 3,500 rpm).
• The 525i has the 2.5 liter engine with 192 hp and 181 lb.ft. of torque (141 kW and 245 Nm at 3,500 rpm).
• The 530i Sedan and Touring have the 3.0 liter engine with 231 hp and 221 lb.ft. of torque (170 kW and 300 Nm at 3,500 rpm).

All three engines outperform the European D4/EU3 emission limits. The increase in engine output and torque results primarily from further streamlining of the intake and exhaust systems and, on the 520i and 530i, from the increase in engine capacity by 200 cc.

The torque curve is much "beefier" on all models, with at least 85 per cent of maximum torque consistently available between 1,500 and 6,000 rpm. 

Engine flexibility has been improved considerably from low engine speeds, while performance and free-revving response at high speeds benefit from the increase in maximum engine speed by 200 rpm on the 2.2-liter, 500 rpm on the 2.5-liter, and 600 rpm on the 3.0-liter engine. 

By optimizing the drivetrain, BMW's engineers have increased performance while keeping fuel consumption constant. In fact, on the automatic transmission models, fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 0.5 ltr/100 km. 

Engine response has also been improved through the introduction of an electronic throttle (drive-by-wire) as well as by optimized adaptive transmission management.

Finally, using a hi-tech acoustic wind tunnel, BMW's engineers have improved the sound of the engines.