BMW are set to throw their hat into the touring, sport wagon arena with the release of their all-new 5 Series Gran Turismo in early 2010. We previously brought you news of Porsche’s similar entree, the Panamera. However, one major difference between the two will undoubtedly be price point. In fact, if initial estimates are right (somewhere around $70,000), BMW’s Gran Turismo should be the only “hatchback” in the premium midsize class. Many different engine configurations will be available, with the top of the line being a twin-turbo, 400-horsepower V-8. As for styling, the Gran Turismo will share major cues with the new generation 5 series, including the wide mouth front grille that BMW introduced on the newest 7 series. Some major features worth the entry fee include a panorama glass roof, optional fully-powered rear bucket seats that fold down for more cargo space, and the innovative two-way rear hatch that can either be opened like a conventional hatchback or just using the smaller lower portion that opens like a conventional trunk and completely blocks the interior of the car from outside elements.
More pics after the jump.
