'Sketchy' new details on BMW PAS

If you are a golf-playing, surfing, shopping, occasional artwork purchasing, executive with long-legged friends and short-legged business clients then BMW has the car for you. Details of the new Progressive Activity Sedan were revealed on the internet yesterday via an animated BMW film.

See the video here

The clever clip gives away plenty of information on BMW's latest segment-creating vehicle ahead of its official unveiling in the coming months. The PAS follows the trend set by the X6 by crossing over several different vehicle segments to create a unique proposition. Based on the 5 Series the new model will sit alongside the sedan and wagon variants and below the X5 SUV.

According to the video the PAS is designed for people who need to carry a lot of cargo but find a wagon has "too much utility" and a sedan "not roomy enough." It goes on to explain that SUVs such as the X5 are too difficult to climb into; making them impractical for people who take business clients out.

The PAS rides slightly higher than a regular 5 Series but lower than the X5, using what BMW refers to as "semi command seating position" that allows for "easy entry and good visibility." The wheelbase has been stretched to increase interior space allowing for adjustable rear seats. The seats are able to slide forwards to create more luggage space and backwards to increase rear passenger legroom.

BMW claims the car has coupe-like styling despite being a four-door sedan with a hatchback boot. The company also claims the car retains good headroom underneath the panoramic sunroof.

Other interesting features exposed on the video are a double-hinged boot-cum-hatchback and a barrier to separate the boot from the seating.

BMW Australia spokesman Tim James tells Carsales.com.au that although details are still limited at this stage, more information -- including the first real images -- is due later this month. But interested buyers will have to wait a little longer.

"I believe it is in the planning [to come to Australia] but it's probably not until 2010," James says.