so i wanted this marinate in my mind before commenting....
Exterior...
I really like the profile. The designers came up with some of the best surfacing I've seen. At first glance, it's subtle, but once you stare at it, there many lines at play. Because of that, I'd probably opt for a lighter metallic color, such as Silver or Bluestone, versus a darker shade. While there are many similarities with the 7er, I think there's enough distinction where the 5er comes off as more dynamic as opposed to a more regal aura given off by its bigger brother.
The front is quintissentially BMW. The headlights, especially when seen from the side, does the best job of all the BMWs to give off that shark-nose appearance. My sole complaint is that the M-Sport pack is a necessity because the lower dam in a non M-sport is rather bland.
The rear has been subjected to the bulk of criticism. Initially, I was a bit wary, as it did give off a strong wiff of typical Asian design, something akin to the current gen Nissan Maxima. I also thought the rear lights were too big. However, once I saw videos of the car in natural light and also compared to the F10, whatever concerns I had were allayed. It fits the car's personality to a T.
Interior...
It's typical BMW. It's good but doesn't really move the game forward. I'd be content with it, day in and day out, as it's ergonomically sound. The three biggest complaints I have are 1) there's too much shiny black plastic on the dash, especially around the HVAC and radio controls, 2) as
@Monster pointed out, those seat memory buttons stick out like a sore thumb, and could have been better integrated, and 3) the choices offered for interior trim are uninspired. In terms of interior, I absolutely think the Volvo S90 Inscription has truly moved the game forward in what materials are used and how its executed.
Powertrain...
Honestly, you can't go wrong with any of the engine choices for the G30. If the articles of pre-pro drives are any indications, it's going to be a winner in the handling, dynamics, and ride department
Competition...
I was debating placing this bit in Internal Combustion, but decided against it. If I was basing my decision based solely on design and this class, I'd have some great difficulty. The three choices would be the 5er, the E and the S90. The 5er and E are great representatives of their respective brand. The S90 offers something new but is absolutely respectable.
Now once you consider what engines are available, it becomes less complicated and more complicated. Since I am in the States, the only options available for a six cylinder is the E43 AMG and 540i. The E43 is going to be crazy expensive and 540i is relatively more reasonable and provides enough oomph so the advantage goes to the 540i. If I wanted a V8, well the M550iX is the only way to go.
Now if I wanted to go the more frugal route with a 4 cyl, this is where it gets more complicated. I'd have difficult time deciding because the three cars offer many intriguing pros and rather negligible cons, except for the Volvo as it's FWD-based. But even that I may overlook because as an overall package, it presents something very interesting with its comfortable ride, AWD, and twincharged 4 cyl. I think after deliberating, I'd probably opt for a 530i over an E300 or an S90, but by a narrow margin. But I'd probably be very pleased with any of the three.
Odds and ends...
While I am disappointed that there's no implementation of CF in the structure, the across-the-board weight loss is encouraging. Also no offer of air suspension seems disappointing, but pre-pro drive reviews seems that it doesn't hurt it at all.
