BMW's iconic 5 Series cars are going electric. The 2024 i5 is the automaker's first electrified 5 Series sedan, and it lands with two available variants, including a powerful BMW M-tuned version and a rear-wheel-drive entry-level model. Its launch coincides with the release of the next-generation gas-powered 5 Series cars.
BMW offers the 2024 i5 in two configurations: i5 eDrive40 and i5 M60 xDrive. The automaker plans to start building the cars in its German factories, so they will not be eligible for federal tax credits. The new 5 Series launches in late 2023, and BMW plans to introduce other gas-powered variants and a new plug-in hybrid model in 2024.
The new 5 Series retains the previous car's sporty, refined character. BMW adds unique touches to differentiate the i5 M60 from its gas-powered and lesser electric counterparts. The M60 has a black front apron, gloss-black side skirts, and mirror caps. It rides on 19-inch M wheels, and the rear features a prominent air diffuser. The available M Sport Professional package adds flared side skirts, an illuminated grille insert, and a small rear spoiler.
The 2024 i5 is very similar to the gas 5 Series inside. BMW equips sport seats as standard, while the M60 adds multi-contour seats. The car is available with leather-free upholstery options, but leather is available. Buyers can add extended Merino leather in several color choices. An M Sport package brings M pedals, an M driver's footrest, and unique infotainment options.
The base i5 eDrive40 gets a single electric motor on its rear axle, making 335 horsepower and up to 317 pound-feet of torque using the temporary boost mode. Acceleration is strong, with BMW claiming the run to 60 mph takes 5.7 seconds. According to BMW, the car can reach an electronically limited 120-mph top speed.
The M60 xDrive adds a second electric motor on the front axle, deriving a combined 590 hp and up to 605 pound-feet of torque from the powertrain. Acceleration is much quicker than the standard car. According to BMW, the i5 M60 takes just 3.7 seconds to reach 60 mph and can hit a top speed of 143 mph.
Both i5 models are available with an M Sport package that brings a temporary boost mode, and the M60 comes standard with an M Sport Package Pro, which adds launch control. Active Roll Stabilization is available for the M60. BMW says it uses electric swivel motors to neutralize body roll and improve steering response.
The new i5 comes with an 84.3-kWh battery, which enables a 295-mile range for the eDrive40 and a 256-mile range for the M60. It can charge at up to 205 kW on a DC fast charger, which can fill the battery from 10 to 80 percent in a half hour. The car features selectable driving modes to preserve the battery or improve performance, and it has anticipatory thermal management to speed charging and maintain range. BMW offers two years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions to new i5 owners.
The i5 has several advanced driver aids as standard and adds a few new features for 2024. The car uses an array of cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors, along with heavy-duty software and computing power, to create a model of the environment around it.
The available Driving Assistance Professional package now includes a hands-free driving assistant that works up to 85 mph. It enables automatic lane changes by tracking the driver's eye movements to either side mirror. An automated parking system comes standard, along with a backup assistant that can maneuver the car into and out of tight spots.
BMW equips its new curved display panel, which includes a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The system runs on the automaker's iDrive 8.5 infotainment interface, which features new graphics and a quick-select menu system for faster, less distracting interactions. A head-up display and gesture controls are available, and buyers can upgrade the car with a new AirConsole video gaming system. Passengers can use their smartphones as controllers to play while the car is stationary, and BMW will offer several games at launch.
The 2024 i5 will compete against the Mercedes-Benz EQE, a new electric E-Class alternative. It's available with AMG tuning, making it a perfect competitor to the i5 M60. Buyers may also eye the Lucid Air, though the cheapest model is far pricier than the i5. The same is true for the Audi E-tron GT. Its $150,000 starting price makes it way more exclusive than the BMW.
BMW is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of June 2, 2023, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Chris Teague is an experienced writer in the automotive and technology fields. In addition to JDPower.com, his work appears at Forbes, The Drive, Your Test Driver, and others.
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