2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

As the trend for fast-roofed five-doors continues to build steam, BMW introduces a new companion to their pioneering X6, the 2010 5-Series Gran Turismo.

This long, tall hatchback mod of the benchmark 5-Series, with its edgy shoulder line, frameless windows, and rear glass just as steeply raked as the X6, may not sit too well with traditional BMW enthusiasts.

Of course, the GT’s trick two-piece rear hatch is the real difference.

You can open just the lower section for loading typical luggage, or the entire hatch for bulkier items.

In the front row, things are more familiar. The IP features a Black Panel Technology 10.2-inch iDrive display screen. 

Seats are lounge-like. The standard second row 40/20/40 split bench adjusts fore and aft. Head and legroom are plentiful. Even with seats folded, there is an acoustic partition between cabin and trunk.

The GT sports two rear-drive engines, both turbocharged: the sedan’s 302-horsepower inline-six or a 400-horsepower twin-turbo V8 from the X6, all managed by an 8-speed automatic.

There’s also an adjustable suspension with norm and sport settings to customize your drive.

And owning up to BMW’s greener EfficientDynamics initiative, the GT has regenerative braking to conserve energy.

“The 5-Series Gran Turismo delivers a solid mix of power and agility, and it’s supremely capable. But, unlike other BMWs, the driving experience comes off more practical than fun.” – Shamit Choksey

The 2010 5-series Gran Turismo goes on sale here at year end with a base price of around $65,000.