For some reason, despite their practicality, hatchbacks have never been top sellers in North America. This may be why BMW ’s rumored split trunk feature on the next-generation 5-series is engineered to act like a traditional trunk lid or hatchback, which lifts the glass as well.
Manufacturers have taken to designing mid-sized sedans with rakish rear windows that do a good job of hiding the fact they’re hatchbacks. Examples include the current-generation Mazda 6 and the recently spied Opel Insignia (concept pictured). The trend is proof hatchbacks are getting harder and harder to discern from their sedan counterparts.
While the feature is not yet confirmed, it is under review for the next-generation 5-series, due out in 2010. The unique trunk is similar in concept to the TwinDoor feature used in the Skoda Superb, according to Auto Express reports. An extra hinge between the window and metal trunk lid would allow the latter to open independently of the former, or the two together. Split-folding seats would grant more storage space, allowing the car to handle bigger or oddly shaped objects. BMW would positions the car between its sedan and wagon 5-series offerings, the report says.
