Kerb weights for the initial 5 Series line-up range from 1680kg for the combustion-engined 520i to 2305kg for the i5 M60 xDrive. The basis for the new 5 Series is BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform. It is the same structure that underpins all BMW models featuring either a longitudinally mounted combustion engine or electric drivetrain.
Stylistically, the new model adopts the change in design direction at BMW first seen on the iX, with a much more modern look than the model it replaces. The front is still dominated by BMW’s classic kidney grille, which on the pure-electric i5 sports a blanked-off design in high-gloss black plastic.
As on all recent BMW models, traditional door handles have made way for flush-fitting units. They combine with other wind-cheating elements, including a flat underbody, to allow the i5 eDrive40 to achieve a drag co-efficient of 0.23.
Mirroring the latest 7 Series, with which it shares many critical components, the 5 Series has grown in size.
Its length has increased by 97mm to 5060mm, width has risen by 32mm to 1900mm and height is up by 36mm to 1515mm. The wheelbase has also gained 20mm, at 2995mm.
Inside, the new 5 Series and i5 follow the lead of the larger 7 Series and i7 with a new triple-layer dashboard supporting a single curved display panel.