BMW announce plug-in hybrid 5-Series

BMW has unveiled a new addition to the 2017 5-Series line-up, the 530e iPerformance hybrid, which goes on sale in the middle of January.

The car pairs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine to an electric motor, which combined produces 248bhp and achieves a claimed 141.2mpg with 46g/km of emissions. It will also do zero to 62mph in 6.2secs and on to a top speed of 146mph.

The 530e will cover a distance of up to 29 miles on the lithium-ion battery alone, although performance figures take a hit as the 94bhp electric motor has a top speed of just 87mph. The combustion engine, which alone has 181bhp and 236lb-ft of torque, kicks in once the battery runs out.

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Auto Express reports the model features a new eDrive mode that allows the driver to "decide how much charge to use" or whether to let the on-board system decide instead. A "redesigned instrument cluster" and blue detailing on the exterior appear to be the only additions over the standard 5-Series.

A 10.25ins touchscreen display with voiceover functionality comes as standard, while active cruise control and lane-keeping assistance are available as optional extras. Information displayed on the dashboard can be tailored to the driver's liking, with smartphone support available for brands such as Apple and Android.

Prices start at £43,985 on the road, with deliveries expected next March.