Just as news of BMW‘s plans to offer a hybrid variant for the upcoming 3 series hit the net, the German automaker has announced the ActiveHybrid 5, completing hybrid trims across the core BMW four door sedan line-up.
Based upon the BMW 535i, the turbocharged inline-six gets an additional 55-hp electric motor with 155 lb-ft of torque and a lithium ion battery pack as well. The electric motor is capable or propelling the luxury sedan to a top speed of 37 miles per hour with an electric-only range of 2.5 miles. Performance wise, the complete hybrid package produces 335 horsepower, gets to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, and, combined with an 8-speed transmission, aims to gain a double digit percentage improvement in fuel efficiency.
Although prices have not been announced, expect the BMW ActiveHybrid 5 to reach U.S. showrooms by March 2012.
