If you're looking for sheetmetal differences between this barely-camouflaged pre-production example of the upcoming BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and the concept that was shown in March at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, you'll only spot them when looking at the wheels. Other than the absence of the concept’s giant 21-inch rolling stock, the two are virtually identical on the outside barring minor changes in the rear covered up by the scant camo.
Although BMW has been silent about what engines will power the decidedly unconventional vehicle, it's a safe bet that two of them will be the potent twin-turbo 3.0L inline-six and twin-turbo 4.4L V-8 offered throughout the automaker's lineup. Diesel options are probable for Europe and not out of the realm of possibility for the U.S., though BMW is sure to check how well the 335d and X5 xDrive35d are moving off dealer lots.
The GT is 3.0-in. shorter in length than a 7 Series and 5.3 in. lower than the X6 in height. Like the X6, the GT seats four. Also like the X6 is the rear hatch, which BMW boasts is an innovation for the segment it is aiming to create for this vehicle. The hatch allows for legroom similar to 7 Series and 15.1 cu. ft. of trunk space, but move the rear seats forward and space expands to 20 cu. ft. Fold the seats via button and 58 cu. ft. becomes available. For greater ease of use, the rear opens in two ways: the entire lid and rear glass hatchback-style or just the lower metal like a normal trunk.
The production version of the 5 Series GT should make its debut in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show and arrive in dealer showrooms in either late 2009 or early 2010.