Meet the BMW i5: The Future of Luxury and Performance in Electric Driving
Get ready to embark on an electrifying journey with the groundbreaking BMW i5! 🔌⚡️ Dive into the future of automotive innovation as we explore the cutting-edge features of the BMW i5, including its powerful eDrive40 technology and the high-performance BMW i5 M60 variant. 🚀 Join us as we take you on an exclusive test drive, experiencing firsthand the unparalleled driving experience and eco-friendly capabilities of the new BMW i5 M60. Don’t miss out on being part of the electric revolution – buckle up and join us for an unforgettable ride into tomorrow! 🌟
The New Era of the BMW 5-Series: Introducing the 2024 i5
The BMW 5-Series has long been synonymous with gasoline and diesel engines, but the tides are turning with the arrival of the 2024 BMW i5. This groundbreaking battery-electric model will account for approximately half of the eighth-generation midsize sport sedan lineup, first introduced in 1972. Just like its larger sibling, the BMW i7, the i5 is designed to outshine its gasoline counterparts, excelling in both luxury and sport variants.
At a recent launch event in Greenville, South Carolina, BMW unveiled two electric versions alongside a gasoline model of the new 5-Series. This is merely the beginning, as the lineup is set to expand to at least six different variants. The electric i5 models deliver a thrilling driving experience, featuring quicker acceleration and a smoother, quieter ride compared to traditional models. With a starting price of $67,795 (including a $995 delivery fee), the i5 does carry a premium over its gasoline counterparts, which are expected to see higher sales volumes. These new models are already hitting the showrooms, with additional variants set to roll out over the next 18 months.
Sophisticated Design Meets Modern Functionality
While the BMW i5 may not scream for attention like some non-Tesla EVs from brands like Kia or Hyundai, it upholds the iconic 5-Series look with sharper lines and a sleek, tapering fastback shape. The i5 boasts the same prominent twin-kidney grille found in its internal combustion engine siblings, but with glossy black plates instead of traditional vertical bars. A stunning panoramic glass roof is also available, replacing the standard slide-and-tilt panel, flooding the cabin with natural light.
Measuring slightly larger than its predecessor—3.4 inches longer, 1.3 inches wider, and 1.4 inches taller—the 2024 5-Series maintains its elegant sedan proportions while accommodating a battery pack beneath the cabin floor. A black band under the doors cleverly conceals the increased height, and wheel options span from 19 to 21 inches.
Luxurious and Intuitive Interior
Inside, the i5 exudes a classic BMW feel, though it’s less distinctly an electric vehicle. The cabin features two sleek, low screens across a sweeping dashboard: a 12.3-inch display for the instrument cluster and a central 13.9-inch touchscreen that mirrors many functions available via the console-mounted iDrive 8.5 controller.
Don’t let the understated design fool you; the i5 is a remarkable electric vehicle, following the i4, iX, and i7 in showcasing BMW’s electric prowess. While fans of the brand’s legendary straight-six engines might feel nostalgic, BMW has firmly established itself as a frontrunner in electric vehicle technology.
Performance and Engineering Excellence
The i5 is built on BMW’s modular Cluster Architecture (CLAR), which supports all larger models. The revised double wishbone front axle and five-link rear axle enhance driving refinement. Key features include an elastic steering gear mount on the front axle and an aluminum stiffening plate for all-wheel-drive versions, resulting in exceptional vibration damping and acoustic performance. The standard M Sport suspension features firmer springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars, with electronically controlled dampers available as an option. While the suspension may feel firm over rough roads, it effectively absorbs most bumps for a smooth ride.
An optional active rear axle allows for steering against or with the front wheels by up to 2.5 degrees, enhancing maneuverability. Additionally, BMW’s IconicSounds software allows drivers to customize their audio experience. The M60 xDrive model, boasting 593 bhp and 605 lb-ft of torque, delivers an exhilarating drive, equipped with adaptive damping, Active Roll Stabilization, and integrated traction control for unmatched dynamics. Despite its weight, the M60 xDrive feels agile and responsive, preserving the classic BMW driving experience, even on twisty roads.
Impressive Variants and Specifications
The 2024 BMW i5 lineup features the eDrive 40 and the M60 xDrive, both exemplifying the remarkable performance potential of electric vehicles. The eDrive 40 is rear-wheel drive, while the more powerful M60 xDrive powers all four wheels. BMW has teased a future i5 xDrive model, likely an all-wheel-drive version of the 40, aligning the electric range with its gasoline counterparts, the 530i and 530i xDrive.
Both i5 models we drove in South Carolina come equipped with an 82-kWh battery pack situated beneath the cabin floor. The eDrive 40’s single rear-mounted motor produces 335 hp, while the M60’s dual motors generate an impressive 593 hp. These figures surpass their gasoline equivalents (255 and 375 hp) and offer faster 0-to-60-mph times: 5.7 seconds for the i5 40 compared to 5.9 or 5.8 seconds for the rear- and all-wheel-drive 530i. The high-performance i5 M60 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a jaw-dropping 3.7 seconds, although BMW has yet to release figures for the forthcoming 540i xDrive with an inline-six engine.
On the road, the rear-wheel-drive i5 eDrive 40 impresses with its capabilities. When combined with the upcoming xDrive all-wheel drive, it will offer versatility and a longer range than the high-performance M60. The ride is firm yet comfortable, and the additional weight from the battery gives it a more solid, planted feel compared to the gasoline 530i. Our only critique of the single-motor model is its lackluster regenerative braking, even at the highest setting, and the absence of true one-pedal driving. While BMW suggests that drivers enjoy more engagement with the controls, this may not resonate with those seeking a more seamless electric experience.
The i5 M60 xDrive, however, delivers a thrilling experience. With stronger regenerative braking and a 10-second “Boost” feature that elevates maximum torque from 549 lb-ft to 605 lb-ft, the acceleration is nothing short of exhilarating. This model features rear-wheel steering for improved agility in tight corners, although parking a larger sedan can still be a challenge. These enhancements make the M60 the ultimate choice for an exhilarating driving experience.
Spacious Comfort and Stylish Design
The i5’s interior comfortably seats four adults, benefiting from a longer wheelbase that increases rear legroom. The front seats are plush and accommodating, and the ease of driving makes the i5 an enjoyable cruiser between charging stops. With 17.3 cubic feet of trunk space—slightly less than gasoline models—the 40:20:40 split rear seat provides versatility for transporting larger items.
The interior design aligns with BMW’s signature formal style, offering a few color options beyond the standard black. The extensive array of exterior and interior colors, trim levels, option packages, and standalone features available for the BMW i5 could easily fill an entire article. Notably, the more powerful model includes the M Sport and M Sport Pro appearance and performance packages, featuring blackout trim and various decorative enhancements.
Advanced Safety and Technology
Previous iterations of the BMW 5-Series have received top safety ratings, but the 2024 i5 has yet to undergo crash testing by the NHTSA or IIHS. All 5-Series models come equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard and optional automated driver-assist systems, including hands-off driving under highway conditions with the optional Driving Assistance Professional system. We eagerly anticipate comparing this feature with other hands-free adaptive cruise control systems, such as Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot, GM’s Super Cruise, and Ford’s Blue Cruise.
Range and Charging Convenience
The i5’s range varies based on wheel size and powertrain. The longest-range version, the RWD eDrive 40 with 19-inch wheels, is rated at 295 miles. Range decreases with larger wheels: 278 miles with 20-inch wheels and 270 miles with 21-inch wheels. The more powerful AWD i5 M60 achieves 256 miles on 19-inch wheels, with an 8 to 16-mile reduction for larger wheels.
The i5 supports charging at up to 11 kW from a Level 2 charging station and comes with a mobile charging cord for 120-volt and 240-volt charging options. Its DC fast-charging capability reaches up to 205 kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes, although typical caveats apply.
The i5 is the first BMW to adopt the Plug & Charge protocol, streamlining validation and billing during fast charging. The MyBMW app aids in planning charging stops and optimizing battery management for quicker recharging. First-time BMW i5 owners will enjoy two years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America stations.
Conclusion: BMW i5 – A New Benchmark in Luxury Electric Vehicles
In summary, the BMW i5 not only upholds the brand’s esteemed reputation for luxury and performance but also exemplifies the superior capabilities of electric vehicles. Whether you’re a long-time BMW enthusiast or new to the brand, the i5 promises an unparalleled driving experience that marries innovation with tradition.
