BMW crashes Merc E-class party

BMW Australia has offered 5 Series buyers three years’ free servicing and a host of extra standard equipment in an obvious attempt to sway buyers away from the all-new Mercedes-Benz E-class also launched this week.

The redesigned large Benz sedan comes with a $10,000 lower admission price than before, with the E220 CDI diesel priced at $80,900, which is nevertheless still $4500 pricier than BMW’s direct rival in the entry-level 520d ($76,400).

However, in the perfect spoiler for their sharper new arch-rival, BMW has now wound up the value equation for all 5 Series models by a claimed $9000, by adding a range of features as standard for the first time at no extra cost, including a head-up display, Professional navigation with 8.8-inch monitor, TV and voice recognition.

In addition, the lower-range 520d, 523i and 525i variants will also gain Park Distance Control, while the 530i, 530d and 530i Touring get Comfort Access as standard.

Of course, many of these features are already fitted as standard in the range-topping 550i V8, which will therefore also come with the Logic 7 HiFi sound system and Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function at no extra cost.

First deliveries of the upgraded 5 Series, which will also come with a three-year or 60,000km “service inclusive package”, will take place this month.

BMW Group Australia managing director, Stavros Yallouridis said the new product offering on 5 Series translated to exceptional value for customers wanting the very best in luxury motoring.

“For each 5 Series model the new product offering equates to an injection of significant around $9000 of additional value,” he said.

“The dual benefit of both enriched product substance and three years servicing provides a very compelling opportunity for potential buyers.”