Review of the 2024 BMW i5: A Glimpse into the Electric 5 Series

Single or Dual Motor? In the US, we’ll have access to two versions of the i5: the eDrive40, featuring a single rear-mounted electric motor and rear-wheel drive, and the M60 xDrive, equipped with dual motors for all-wheel drive. Both variants come with an 81.2-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, offering faster DC fast-charging speeds, maxing out at 205 kilowatts, a slight improvement over the i7’s 195-kW maximum. When using a Level 2 home charger, you can expect an 11 kW charging rate.

The eDrive40 model generates 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque from its rear-mounted electric motor, propelling the 4,916-pound sedan from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. This acceleration is more than sufficient for everyday driving, thanks to the instant torque characteristic of electric vehicles. The EPA estimates a maximum range of 295 miles for the eDrive40 with its single-motor configuration.

On the other hand, the i5 M60 xDrive packs a powerful punch with a remarkable 593 hp and 586 lb-ft of torque, thanks to the addition of a second electric drive unit at the front axle. This upgrade enables the M60 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. However, this enhanced performance does come at the cost of reduced range, with an EPA estimate of 256 miles.

A Comfortable and Agile Daily Driver Irrespective of the power output, the i5 delivers the typical 5 Series driving experience: smooth and comfortable on the highway while remaining agile and responsive on twisty roads. The prototypes tested at BMW’s Miramas proving grounds in France earlier this year left a positive impression, and the current production model appears to maintain that dynamic performance.

Driving an i5 eDrive40 with the optional M Sport suspension, electronically adjustable dampers, and 21-inch wheels (though smaller sizes are also available), the ride quality is excellent, effectively smoothing out rough roads. All i5 models feature a self-leveling rear air suspension for comfort, and the front double-wishbone setup provides precise steering feedback.

Additionally, all i5 models can be equipped with 2.5-degree rear-axle steering for improved cornering stability. The M60 variant benefits from the 5 Series’ new 48-volt active anti-roll technology, which enhances the sedan’s composure during spirited driving in hilly terrain.

Regenerative braking plays a crucial role in recharging the battery, offering various preset regen levels through the iDrive 8.5 infotainment system. To optimize regen, it’s recommended to keep the i5 in the “B” mode, one step down from “D,” while disabling the adaptive recuperation feature for more consistent brake feel.

Hands-Free Driving and Lane Changes The i5 offers hands-free driving capabilities on pre-mapped highways, similar to Ford’s BlueCruise or General Motors’ Super Cruise. BMW’s Highway Assistant allows for extended periods of hands-free operation without the system automatically disengaging, making highway driving more convenient.

An innovative feature introduced with the i5 is gesture-based lane changes. When using Highway Assistant, the system suggests lane changes, and all it takes is a glance at the corresponding side mirror to execute the maneuver. If you choose not to follow the suggestion, simply keep looking ahead. This technology is expected to roll out to other BMW models equipped with Highway Assistant in the future.

Tech-Loaded Cabin with Thoughtful Details The interior of the i5 impresses with its attention to detail, including stylish contrast stitching on vegan upholstery, backlit ambient lighting panels, and glass controls on the center console. A single curved display combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch multimedia touchscreen. The digital cluster offers customizable displays and augmented reality overlays for precise navigation guidance. Meanwhile, the iDrive 8.5 system, an upgrade over the previous version, includes a row of feature buttons along the bottom of the touchscreen for easier access to common functions. BMW plans to introduce further over-the-air improvements for this system.

One unique feature that may raise eyebrows is AirConsole, allowing occupants to play one of ten different video games on the 14.9-inch display while parked, such as off-brand versions of popular games like Mario Kart and Tetris. This feature may offer entertainment while waiting at a charging station, accommodating up to seven players.

Coming This Fall, More to Come The 2024 i5 eDrive40 will start at $67,795 (including $995 for destination) when it becomes available in the fall. This price positions the i5 below its primary competitors, the Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ and Tesla Model S, offering an affordable electric alternative. The i5 M60 xDrive, priced at $85,095, offers even more power but retains competitive pricing compared to its AMG-badged Mercedes EQE counterpart. Despite the allure of 593 hp, the eDrive40 variant, with its more conventional design, may be a compelling choice for daily driving, especially when equipped with various options, keeping the cost around $75,000.

The next phase of BMW’s 5 Series rollout will include gas-powered models, followed by the introduction of hybrid and fully electric variants. The transition to electric technology is accelerating, and BMW is poised to remain at the forefront of this transformation.