The mid-sized 5-Series is a technological tour-de-force. A host of electronics, electronic driving aids, exotic materials and construction techniques set the 5-Series apart from the mainstream. Three engines are offered including two inline six-cylinder engines and a powerful turbocharged V8. The 5-Series also offers the xDrive all-wheel-drive system found in the X3 and X5. All models are available with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic. The interior is relatively uncluttered given that a large number of functions are located within the iDrive system that dominates the center console. Unlike many of its competitors, the 5-Series emphasizes the "sport" in sport sedan. Only the 535i and 550i rear-wheel-drive models will be offered initially. The 528i and all-wheel-drive models will be added later in the year.

The sixth generation 5-Series features slightly larger proportions as it now shares an architecture with the larger 7-Series. The new models adopt a multilink suspension setup in the front and rear. Three engines are offered: an entry-level inline-six (528i), a turbocharged inline-six (535i), and the turbocharged 4.4l V8 (550i). A new eight-speed automatic transmission is offered but the six-speed manual remains. Both rear-wheel-drive and xDrive all-wheel-drive are offered.