The all-electric BMW i5 reimagines the possibilities of a landmark luxury sedan

Spanning about 40 years and seven generations, the BMW 5 Series Sedan is a pioneer of the luxury executive segment for a reason. It’s a timeless icon of a sedan particularly because of its elevated sportiness, stylish appeal and of course, driving pleasure. And as BMW transforms itself, so will the series. That next leap has finally arrived with the unveiling of the first all-electric BMW i5.

From the initial looks of it, the new BMW i5 retains much of the same athletic character as its predecessors. The front view is a more modern interpretation of that world-famous BMW “shark nose.”

Of note, too, is the wide surround and optional contour lighting that has become a signature of BMW. But while the brand focused on reducing much of the design language, the BMW i5 has grown to a length of 5,060 millimetres, a width of 1,900 millimetres and a height of 1,515 millimetres. This applies to the wheelbase, as well, which has been lengthened by about a decent 20 millimetres.

A fully vegan interior also makes its debut in BMW’s EV lineup. The chic cabin has been simplified even more, allowing for more acoustic comfort and better driver orientation. Fewer buttons and controls are found compared to previous models simply because of the digitalising functions.

The steering wheel, on the other hand, has noticeably been redesigned, featuring a flattened lower section and haptic feedback on the control panels and the selector lever on the centre console. The BMW curved display works like a charm, as well, having a digital display system that features 12.3-inch information and 14.9-inch control displays.

The performance of the top-of-the-line BMW i5 M60 xDrive is no slouch either with its new 48-volt active anti-roll tech. There’s a much more reactive accelerator and heavier steering to it but that doesn’t mean the quality of the drive dips. When asked, the BMW i5 can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds or less.

Its road-oriented chassis is as dynamic as ever. With its two integrated drive units on the front and rear axles, the maximum system power output totals about 442 kW/601 hp, with a maximum torque of 820 Nm when the M Sport Boost or M Launch Control function is activated. The EV reaches top speeds of 143 mph and a range of 455 to 516 km.

Powered by an 84.3-kWh battery pack, BMW claims it is enough to charge the eDrive40 model for 474 km in between charges. The dual-motor M60 model, on the other hand, has an estimated range of 411 km per charge. DC fast-charging stations should be capable of charging vehicles from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes or so.

Among the other ways drivers can enhance the i5 is by adding the optional M Sport Package, the M Sport Package Pro and the M Carbon exterior package. The next-gen BMW 5 Series Sedan is offered in an all-electric drive, as well as versions with plug-in hybrid systems and with efficient petrol and diesel engines including 48-volt mild hybrid technology.

Following in the footsteps of the i4, i7 and iX, the BMW i5 sets a new standard not just for a beloved series but for the group’s exciting EV lineup.

Visit the BMW Group for more information.

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