Critique: The 2024 BMW i5 – An Electric Powerhouse Outperforms Its Traditional Fuel Counterpart
Throughout its history, the BMW 5-Series has relied on traditional fuel sources like gasoline and diesel. However, the latest iteration brings a positive change with its electric propulsion.
The upcoming 2024 BMW i5, a battery-powered vehicle, is expected to constitute about 50% of the diverse offerings of the eighth iteration of the classic midsize sports sedan, initially introduced in 1972. Mirroring the experience with the BMW i7, the i5’s electric variant—despite a nearly indistinguishable exterior—outshines its petrol-based equivalents. This trend is underscored by the popular 5-Series range, where both the luxury and sports versions demonstrate that electric vehicles are superior automobiles.
During a launch event in November, held in the vicinity of Greenville, South Carolina, BMW showcased two electric models alongside a traditional gasoline version for journalists to test drive. These models represent the initial offerings in what is anticipated to be a lineup of at least six variations of the 5-Series. The two electric i5 variants delivered a more enjoyable driving experience, with quicker acceleration and a more serene ride, especially when not pushing the car to its speed limits. However, the electric i5 comes with a higher price tag, starting at $67,795, which includes a compulsory delivery charge of $995, compared to its gasoline counterparts, which are expected to sell in greater numbers. These new vehicles have begun to reach BMW dealerships, and more models are expected to be introduced in the next year and a half.
Upcoming BMW i5 Model Set
Upcoming 2024 model of
Upcoming 2024 model of
The BMW i5 sets itself apart from the 5-Series
In the realm of electric vehicles outside of Tesla’s dominance, brands like Kia and Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 sedan have made bold design choices. BMW, however, has opted for a more subdued style with its electric 5-Series. Despite plans for a more daring design in their forthcoming Neue Klasse electric vehicles, the i5 remains one of the more inconspicuous EVs available, even more so than the i7.
The latest version of the 5-Series is easily recognizable, though it features more defined, chiseled lines that enhance its sleek, gradually narrowing fastback sedan profile. The electric i5 variant shares the enlarged double kidney grille design with its combustion engine counterparts, but instead of vertical bars, it features glossy black coverings. An optional expansive panoramic glass roof is available to substitute the default sliding and tilting glass section, significantly brightening the interior.
The latest 2024 5-Series model boasts dimensions that are marginally increased compared to the previous version, with an added length of 3.4 inches, a width that’s expanded by 1.3 inches, and a height that’s grown by 1.4 inches. These changes maintain its classic sedan shape while making room for an underfloor battery pack. To conceal the added height, there’s a black strip along the lower door area. Depending on the model, customers can choose wheels that vary in size from 19 to
Internally, the i5 maintains its unmistakable BMW identity, though it’s not as immediately evident that it’s an electric vehicle. Two flat screens are prominently featured on the expansive dashboard: a 12.3-inch screen serves as the digital instrument panel behind the steering wheel, and a 13.9-inch touchscreen in the center replicates numerous features accessible via the iDrive 8.5 control located on the console.
Upcoming BMW i5 Model Set
The latest BMW i5 lineup proves that electric power can surpass traditional engines. During our test drive in South Carolina, we experienced the initial two all-electric versions in the 5-Series lineup set to hit the market: the 2024 BMW i5 eDrive 40 and the i5 M60 xDrive. The eDrive 40 model operates with rear-wheel drive, while the more robust M60 xDrive model delivers power to all four wheels. BMW hinted at an upcoming i5 xDrive edition, likely an all-wheel-drive variant of the eDrive 40, aligning the entry-level electric options with their gasoline-powered equivalents, the 530i and 530i xDrive.
The two variants of the i5 we tested come equipped with an 82-kwh battery situated beneath the vehicle’s floor. The eDrive 40 features a motor at the back, delivering 335 horsepower. In contrast, the M60 version boasts a dual-motor setup, one at the front and one at the back, generating a total of 593 horsepower. These power outputs surpass those of their gasoline counterparts, which are at 255 and 375 horsepower. Moreover, the electric models boast faster sprint times from 0 to 60 mph: the i5 40 achieves it in 5.7 seconds, which is quicker than the 530i’s rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive models that clock in at 5.9 and 5.8 seconds, respectively. The high-performance electric i5 M60 impresses with an even more rapid 3.7 seconds to reach 60 mph. However, BMW has yet to disclose the acceleration stats for its upcoming 540i xDrive with its inline-6 engine.
Upcoming BMW i5 set to
During our journey, the i5 eDrive 40 with its rear-wheel drive was impressively competent. If BMW introduces the xDrive all-wheel system, which seems likely, it could offer a versatile vehicle with a range surpassing that of the high-performance M60 version. The vehicle provides a ride that’s stiff yet comfortable, and when compared to the gasoline-powered 530i, the heft from the batteries at the bottom gives it a more substantial and steady feel. However, we did have a minor issue with the single-motor version’s regenerative braking being too weak, even at its highest setting, missing the mark on achieving full one-pedal stopping capability. While the manufacturer indicates that its customers prefer more engagement with the vehicle’s functions, we’re not fully sold on the idea that this preference extends to those looking for a fully electric BMW experience.
The electrifying variant of the 5-Series that truly delivers a thrill is the i5 M60 xDrive. This model enhances the regenerative braking system and introduces a „Boost“ feature that, for 10 seconds, can increase the combined torque output from both motors from 549 to 605 pound-feet. The outcome is a forceful acceleration that comes with a manufactured roar. Additionally, it’s equipped with rear-wheel steering, which contributes to a more agile feel during sharp turns, making the vehicle seem more compact than it actually is—though the task of parking this sizable sedan remains a typical hurdle. These attributes combined make the M60 our top pick for those moments when you’re after a mischievously delightful driving experience.
Upcoming BMW i5 Model for
Upcoming BMW i5 Model Set
Upcoming 2024 model of
The i5’s interior comfortably seats four adults, thanks to an extended wheelbase that provides extra space for backseat passengers‘ legs. The front seats are notably cozy, enhancing the overall driving experience, especially during longer trips between recharging the electric vehicle.
The i5 offers a storage area of 17.3 cubic feet in the trunk, which is slightly smaller by 1 cubic foot compared to traditional gas-powered models. It features a versatile 40:20:40 split in the back seats, allowing for easy transport of bigger objects, ranging from center-placed skis to various luggage and containers when the seats are partially or fully collapsed.
Those familiar with BMW’s recent interior designs will find no shocks here – the typical upscale ambiance remains, although there’s a splash of variety with several color choices that stray from the standard German black. When it comes to the BMW i5, detailing all the choices in exterior and interior hues, customization options, and individual features could fill a separate feature. In brief, the higher-performance variant is equipped with the M Sport and M Sport Pro packages, enhancing both looks and performance with dark trim and a host of other aesthetic enhancements.
Upcoming BMW i5 Model Set
Safety credentials for earlier models of the BMW 5-Series have been impressive, however, the 2024 BMW i5 electric vehicle has not undergone crash evaluations by the NHTSA or IIHS to date.
Every model within the 5-Series range is equipped with an extensive array of both standard and optional advanced driver-assistance technologies, including the newly introduced feature of autonomous driving on highways as part of the optional Driving Assistance Professional package. Unfortunately, our test drives did not include enough highway distance to evaluate this feature, but we anticipate comparing it to competing systems such as Mercedes Benz’s Drive Pilot, GM’s Super Cruise, Ford’s Blue Cruise, and other comparable hands-free adaptive cruise control systems in the future.
Upcoming 2024 BMW Electric
The BMW i5 offers a variety of wheel sizes, from 19 to 21 inches, impacting the car’s EPA-rated range, which also depends on the selected powertrain. When equipped with 19-inch wheels, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) eDrive 40 version has the highest range at 295 miles, thanks to its 82-kWh battery. However, opting for 20-inch wheels reduces the range to 278 miles, and 21-inch wheels drop it further to 270 miles. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive (AWD) i5 M60 with 19-inch wheels reaches 256 miles. If you choose 20-inch or 21-inch wheels, the range decreases by an additional 8 and 16 miles, respectively.
Upcoming BMW i5 Model Set
The i5 variants have the capability to power up at a maximum of 11 kW when connected to a Level 2 charger that has the capacity to support such a rate. BMW equips each i5 with a versatile charging cable that is compatible with both 120-volt and 240-volt inputs, with the latter designed for a NEMA 14-50 outlet. The DC fast-charging ability of the electric 5-Series is noted to be as high as 205 kW. This suggests it’s possible to replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. However, this figure comes with the usual set of disclaimers and conditions that could affect charging times.
The BMW i5 is the inaugural model to feature the Plug & Charge system, which enables the driver to simply connect to a rapid charging station without worrying about authentication or payment processes, as these are handled automatically. Additionally, upon setting a destination in the MyBMW app, the i5 intelligently plans required charging pauses and manages the battery temperature to optimize charging speed. New BMW i5 buyers are gifted with a two-year perk of free half-hour charges at Electrify America charging stations.
Green Car Reports was able to deliver this firsthand account of driving thanks to BMW covering the costs for transportation, accommodation, and food.
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