The vision for BMW's Neue Klasse begins to become less clear upon examining the 2027 5-Series | Carscoops

      BMW is making adjustments to the 5-Series with sharper headlights and updated grilles.

      While the sedan might not fully embrace the Neue Klasse design, it will feature a cleaner and more familiar aesthetic.

      The interior may incorporate BMW’s panoramic iDrive and a redesigned steering wheel.

      BMW’s approach to mid-cycle updates has grown more sophisticated, particularly regarding its flagship models. After the 3-Series seemed to set a standard, expectations were that the larger 5-Series would follow with a front-end design influenced by the Vision Neue Klasse concept.

      However, recent spy images indicate a different direction. Instead of completely adopting the new design language, BMW seems to be making modest tweaks to the existing facelift.

      A disguised prototype of the 2027 5-Series Touring reveals kidney grilles that mimic the current model's shape, though they are slightly reshaped to appear slimmer and more angular.

      The headlights also seem to be updated. They steer clear of the more avant-garde style seen on the iX3 and instead present a design that falls between the current 5-Series and the new designs arriving with the Neue Klasse lineup.

      Inspired by these latest developments, digital artist Sugar Design has produced renderings of what the refreshed 5-Series could look like when it goes into production. While the updates may not be as dramatic as initially anticipated, it’s clear that this design is significantly more appealing than that of the current model.

      The render highlights more than just the new grilles. The headlights are sharper, featuring redesigned LED daytime running lights with a sleeker and more aggressive form. The bumper has also been reworked for cohesion, reducing some of the previous model's clutter and providing a more contemporary look.

      As is customary with most facelifts, there are unlikely to be many alterations to the profile of the 2027 5-Series. Wheel designs may see updates, but the fundamental shape and surface treatment are expected to remain consistent.

      At the rear, the visual changes are also subtle. The taillights maintain their existing outline, but with updated internal components that enhance visual complexity. These minor modifications contribute to a more refined overall look.

      Regarding the interior, it remains uncertain how much will be taken from other Neue Klasse models. BMW may align the 5-Series with the more modern setup featured in the iX3, which includes the wide Panoramic iDrive display positioned low on the dashboard and a separate angled infotainment screen. The iX3’s new four-spoke steering wheel is also anticipated to be included in the 5-Series interior.

      From a mechanical standpoint, significant updates do not seem imminent. The current lineup—including the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, as well as the 3.0-liter turbo inline-six—is expected to remain unchanged. Diesel options should continue to be available in markets where they are still relevant, alongside plug-in hybrids and the fully electric i5.