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Our latest spy shots reveal that BMW’s ‘Progressive Activity Sedan’ (PAS) project is continuing apace.
Based on the same platform as the new 5-series, which arrives next year, the PAS will provide BMW with an MPV for the first time. The firm has lost sales to the likes of the Ford S-Max as 3-series drivers have families and want more space, and this is the company’s response.
BMW’s chairman Norbert Reithofer has already promised class leading cabin and luggage room from the PAS.
The PAS design team considered adding a third row of seats to create a sort of luxury people carrier, but Autocar understands this idea has been scrapped because of the heavy curvature of the roof. Instead, the PAS will come X6-style with four deep-set individual seats, or with the more conventional arrangement of two front seats and a rear bench.
In an effort to recreate one of the most appealing aspects of driving an SUV, the PAS has it’s seats positioned 60mm higher than the 5-series to offer drivers a commanding view of the road.
We expect the PAS to share engines and powertrain options with the new 5-series. Diesel units will be most popular, with the 3.0-litre straight-six expected to be the range highlight.
Prices for the PAS are expected to start at around £32,000 when it arrives late next year. It won’t be called PAS, either – V5 is the favourite, as BMW is likely to begin a new naming convention for its MPVs.
Will Powell
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