The first generation BMW 5 Series (E28) was produced from 1981 to 1987 and featured a unique pop-up front headlight design.
In 1984, BMW introduced the 525e, a fuel-efficient version of the E28 5 Series that used a modified version of the M20 engine with a 1.6L displacement and catalytic converter.
The E34 generation (1990-1995) was the first 5 Series to use a multi-link rear suspension system.
The E39 generation (1995-2004) featured an innovative headlight design that used a clear plastic cover over the headlights, giving them a distinctive "corona" look.
In 1997, BMW introduced the 530d, a diesel-powered version of the E39 5 Series that used a 2.9L inline-six engine producing 193hp and 299lb-ft of torque.
The E60 generation (2004-2010) was available with an optional "Comfort Access" feature, which allowed drivers to open the doors, trunk, and fuel filler door without using a key fob.
BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system made its debut in the 525d, 530d, and 535d diesel variants of the E60 5 Series in 2009.
The F10 generation (2010-2016) was the first 5 Series to be produced on a shared platform with the 7 Series.
In 2011, BMW introduced the Active Steering system, which allowed drivers to change the steering ratio depending on speed and mode.
The 535i model featured an optional "Active Chassis" system that used adaptive shock absorbers to improve ride comfort and handling.
The E60 5 Series was available with a range of fuel-saving technologies, including the "Auto Start/Stop" function, which shuts off the engine when the car comes to a halt in heavy traffic.
In 2013, BMW introduced the optional "Comfort Package Professional", which added features such as heated rear seats and a massage function for the front passenger seat.
The F10 5 Series was available with an optional "Dynamic Handling" system that used a range of sensors to adjust suspension stiffness and steering response in real-time.
In 2014, BMW introduced the iDrive Touch system, which allowed drivers to control various functions using a touch-sensitive display on the center console.
The M5 model featured an adaptive damper system that adjusted shock absorber stiffness based on speed and driving mode.
The E60 5 Series was available with a range of engine options, including a turbocharged inline-six producing 306hp in the 530i xDrive variant.
In 2015, BMW introduced the optional "Executive Package", which added features such as a panoramic moonroof and rear seat entertainment system.
The F10 5 Series was available with an optional "Dakar" package that included features such as a raised suspension system and unique exterior trim.
The xDrive all-wheel-drive system made its debut in the M5 variant of the F10 5 Series in 2014, producing 600hp from a 4.4L V8 engine.
In 2016, BMW introduced the G30 generation (2017-present) of the 5 Series, which features a range of advanced safety technologies and interior amenities.
The M5 model featured an optional "Drift Mode" that allows drivers to intentionally oversteer for short periods of time.
The F10 5 Series was available with an optional "Driving Experience Package", which added features such as a track driving mode and performance data logger.
In 2017, BMW introduced the optional "Panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof" on the G30 5 Series, which displays animated graphics based on time of day and season.
The xDrive all-wheel-drive system made its debut in the M550i xDrive variant of the G30 5 Series in 2017, producing 523hp from a 4.4L V8 engine.
In 2019, BMW introduced the optional "Personal CoPilot" feature on the G30 5 Series, which allows drivers to customize various settings and preferences for different passengers.