2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5

BMW has unveiled its first midsize sedan that uses the hybrid technology in the US at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This midsize hybrid sedan is referred to as the "2013 BMW ActiveHybrid 5." Just like any hybrid model, this car was specifically designed to consume lesser amounts of fuel and provide an impressive road performance when driven. In addition to this, the ActiveHybrid 5 is also expected to compete with other hybrid models in the segment.

With a starting price of about $61,845, this version of BMW's hybrid is equipped with a 3.0-liter in-line 6-cylinder engine with TwinPower turbo. This is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and this is capable of producing a maximum power output of up to 335 horsepower. Since this is a hybrid vehicle, the ActiveHybrid 5 is also using an electric motor that provides an additional 55 horsepower and 155 lb.-ft. of torque to the 355 horsepower produced by the in-line 6-cylinder engine. The electric motor derives its energy from the 96-cell lithium ion battery installed on the vehicle. The electrical charges stored on the 96-cell lithium ion batteries don't easily gets drained since this is automatically charged when the vehicle is running if gasoline mode as well as through regenerative braking.

Since this hybrid vehicle is using both the gasoline engine and the electric motor as its power source and the two power sources are usually taking turns in propelling the vehicle, the overall fuel consumption of the car is reduced at a significant level. Thus, the vehicle owner is given the chance to earn greater savings from reduced fuel expenses. Aside from that, its fuel-efficient feature makes this car an ideal vehicle for car buyers who are after for greater fuel efficiency.

The good with this car is that it is still capable of providing the best running performance despite the fact that its fuel consumption was reduced. In fact, the ActiveHybrid 5 sprints from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds. However, the vehicle's most notable characteristic is its capability of running in pure electric mode at a distance of 2.5 miles with an estimated top speed of 37 miles per hour.

As soon as this vehicle is released into the market, this vehicle would surely provide a stiffer competition for the Lexus GS 450h, the Mercedes-Benz E400 hybrid that was recently released, and the Infiniti M Hybrid.

Marty Bay is an Automotive Journalist providing helpful tips and advice which powers the Car Finder at the Car Finder Service website.