Ocupante adulto
The passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal impact. Dummy readings indicated good protection of the knees and femurs of both the driver and front seat passenger. BMW were able to demonstrate that occupants of different sizes, and those sat in different positions, would be similarly well protected. Maximum points were scored in the side barrier test. In the more severe side pole impact, the head and pelvis were well protected, the chest and abdomen adequately so. Good protection was provided against whiplash injuries in the event of a rear impact.
Ocupante infantil
Based on dummy readings in the dynamic tests, the 5 series was awarded maximum points for protection of the 3 year dummy in the frontal and side impacts. Forward movement of the dummy's head was not excessive in the frontal impact and both the 3 year and 18 month dummies were properly contained by their respective child restraints in the side impact. The passenger airbag can be disabled to allow a rearward facing child restraint to be used in that seating position. However, information provided to the driver regarding the status of the airbag is not sufficiently clear. A permanently attached label warns clearly of the dangers of using a rearward facing restraint in the passenger seat without first disabling the airbag.
Peatón
The 5 series is fitted with an 'active bonnet'. When a pedestrian is struck, actuators lift all four corners of the bonnet away from hard structures underneath. This creates more space to absorb the energy of a struck pedestrian, lowering injury values. The bonnet has scored maximum points in the areas likely to be struck by the head of a child and has scored very highly in those areas likely to be struck by an adult. The front edge of the bonnet did not score any points for the protection provided to pedestrians' legs but the bumper scored maximum points.
Asistencia a la seguridad
Electronic Stability Control is standard equipment on the 5 series, together with a driver-set speed limitation device. A seatbelt reminder system is also standard equipment and covers all seating positions.