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The current generation of BMWs follows a design theme the German automaker calls "flame surfacing," and the automotive press calls, at best, divisive. The current generation of the BMW 5-Series carries the "flame surfacing" design motif farther than any of its siblings, and while some reviewers like it, more reviewers detest it. The 2009 5-Series hasn't been seen, aside from drawings and heavily camouflaged spy shots. But it is widely expected to tone down the controversial lines, and though they're just speculation, the drawings the press has seen show a much more attractive car.

New technologies are certain to appear in the 2009 5-Series as well. Engines offerings will probably include low-emission diesels, new to the U.S. market, that have been well-received in Europe. Gas-powered engines will of course be offered, topping out with a 408-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 550i. A high-performance M5 variant probably will not surface until 2010.
What The Auto Press Says

What the automotive press has to say about the 2009 BMW 5-Series so far centers on the look -- the "flame surfacing" of the old 5-Series was panned by many critics, and reviewers seem to express relief at the thought that the 2009 5-Series could look as beautiful as it feels to drive, or at least sport a body that doesn't distract from its engineering.

Details of the drivetrain are sketchy at best. BMW builds a series of diesel engines that are very well-regarded outside the U.S., and the 2009 5-Series may well be the platform the German automaker uses to try to bring them here. With Americans searching for alternative fuels in the wake of skyrocketing gas prices, even BMW shoppers may be intrigued by clean diesels.

Here is what the press has to say about the coming 2009 5-Series:

* "After half a decade of flame surfaces, cat's-eye headlamps, and wild cutlines, BMW design is pulling back from extreme frivolities for the next 5-series, due in 2009 (wagon in 2010)." - Automobile Magazine
* Like other models in the BMW range, the current sedan's "flame-surfacing" styling is met with mixed reviews, and the Bavarian automaker will be toning it down for the next generation, more along the lines of the current 3-Series." - Autoblog

Key Details

The 2009 BMW 5-Series is expected to be lighter than the outgoing 2008 model, despite slightly larger dimensions. That may well enhance the already world-class handling of the car. A new system BMW has called "active yaw control" may further improve the driving dynamics.

Early spy shots of the interior appear to show a center console canted slightly toward the driver, and a revised instrument panel.

Automobile Magazine says "The drivetrain goes high-tech with brake-energy regeneration teaming with adaptive alternator control," as well as "a start-stop system with an upshift indicator for manual transmissions."

Stay tuned for a full 2009 BMW 5-Series review. Also check out information on the 2008 BMW 5-Series, available in showrooms today.

The 2008 Mazda Mazda5 ranks 1 out of 3 Affordable Compact Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 45 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda Mazda5, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Mazda5's minivan-like seating and cargo versatility as well as its wagon size and pricing make it one of the top affordable compact wagons. However, it does not have the peppy engine performance associated with Mazda cars, and might not be suited for those who need to carry both a lot of people and cargo.

The 2008 Mazda5 is a solid attempt to create a car with the cargo space and practicality of a minivan, while keeping the size of a wagon. "What are they putting in the guava juice at Mazda's design headquarters?" U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman writes. "Whatever it is I want some. In a market filled with nichebusters and me-too copycats, the No. 4 Japanese automaker keeps finding ways to turn out clever, affordable funmobiles that are a bit more creative than the competition." For 2008, the Mazda5 adds a new five-speed automatic transmission and an auxiliary input jack for connecting portable music players to the audio system. The 5 is still available in three trims, the Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, all of which have the same four-cylinder engine. It's part of Ford's C1 platform, along with the Mazda3.

The 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is largely unchanged. This midsize crossover SUV seats five and shares its basic design with the Pontiac Torrent and Suzuki XL7. Equinox comes in four trim levels: LS, LT, luxury-themed LTZ, and high-performance Sport. All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The LS, LT, and LTZ have a 185-hp 3.4-liter V6 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Sports have a 264-hp 3.6-liter V6, 6-speed automatic transmission, firmer suspension tuning, and specific trim. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and curtain side airbags. Equinox's rear seat slides fore and aft up to 8 inches to increase passenger or cargo space. A navigation system and remote engine start are available. New for 2009 is a wireless cell phone link.