The BMW 5 Series is one of the world's most popular and successful luxury sedans, combining elegance, performance, and technology. But what if you could get a 5 Series that was even more luxurious, powerful, and advanced? And what if it was only available in China?
That's the premise of the new BMW i5, a fully electric version of the 5 Series that is designed and produced exclusively for the Chinese market. The i5 is part of BMW's strategy to expand its presence and leadership in the world's largest car market, where demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is booming.
But what makes the 2024 BMW i5 so special, and how does it compare to its conventional counterpart? You need to know some key features and facts about the new BMW i5.
The i5 is based on the long-wheelbase 5 Series
The i5 is not just a regular 5 Series with an electric powertrain. It is based on the long-wheelbase version of the BMW 5 Series, which is also exclusive to China. This means that the i5 has a longer body and a more spacious interior than the standard 5 Series, offering more comfort and luxury for the passengers.
The BMW i5 also has a distinctive design that sets it apart from the regular 5 Series. The front grille is closed and features a blue accent that signifies its electric nature. The headlights are slimmer and sharper, while the rear lights are connected by a light strip. The i5 also has aerodynamic wheels and a lower stance that enhance its efficiency and sportiness.
The i5 comes in two variants with different power and range
The 2024 BMW i5 offers two variants for different customer preferences: the eDrive40 and the M60 xDrive. The BMW i5 eDrive40 is the entry-level model that delivers 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph. The eDrive40 has an estimated range of 295 miles on a single charge, which is comparable to some of the best EVs on the market.
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive is a performance-oriented model that boasts 590 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. The M60 xDrive has a slightly lower range of 256 miles, but it also comes with a four-wheel-drive system and an adaptive suspension that enhance its handling and stability.
Both variants use the same battery pack that has a capacity of 84.3 kilowatt-hours. The battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using a fast-charging station with a maximum power of 205 kilowatts. BMW also offers two years of free charging at Electrify America stations for BMW i5 owners.