Steppin’ in up!

The news is exciting when it comes to this next impressive offering from BMW —the I5 540 for 2024 — representing the eighth generation 5 Series. From a complete redesign inside and out to an impressive powertrain, this midsize luxury sedan is rooted in performance and capability. See why this midsize all-electric vehicle is one of the luxury brand’s finest!

Here’s more…

What we know — power, styling, tech and more!

The 540i is presented with all-wheel-drive as standard as well as a whopping 375-hp turbocharged inline-six. Augmented by a 48-volt hybrid system, this 540 is expected to power to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. That power is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

In 2024, this vehicle, will see a complete redesign treatment both inside and out in this eighth generation. Also, multiple trims will be for the asking with the 540i, with the base car possessing as standard a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder 255-horsepower and 295-pound feet of torque. The battery within is a Lithium-ion, 400V with 211 Ah capacity. Charging time is about 30 minutes!

Bigger in every way, the car at first glance seems longer than the outgoing model. That is due to an increase of 3.4 inches in width and 1.4 inches in height. Wheelbase has also increased by nearly an inch at 0.8. The result is an extra roomy and comfortable interior which boasts extra cargo space.

A more upright grille marks this latest model, as well as vertical daytime running lights. There will also be additional glass-black styling features such as large air intakes, a grille featuring horizontal slats and an M logo. This vehicle sits atop 19-inch light alloy wheels as well as a more pronounced diffuser at back.

Luxury is found within, with BMW always delivering when it comes to quality. That is made clear with a genuine leather seating surface as well as a new option of a vegan-friendly seating surface called Veganza. An optional Luxury Seating package will come equipped with heated and ventilated seats, more power adjustment and even a massage feature. There is also the options of a heated steering wheel, head-up display, panoramic glass roof and an interior camera as well as the Active Driving Assistant Package. The 540 also gains interior standard features like ambient lighting, part of the new BMW Interaction Bar, which illuminates both the instrument panel and the door area.

Standard within is also an impressive 12.3-inch curved display as well as a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that is carried over from the flagship 7-Series sedan. Standard is the ever-popular Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Harman/Kardon stereo system.

Also in the area of technology, drivers and passengers alike get the benefit of an in-car gaming system thanks to a new AirConsole feature. This allows occupants to stream content or play video games while the vehicle is stationary thanks to a smartphone connection. Games range from sports and quiz games to simulations and more.

A wide array of safety perks are presented here, with an impressive package chock full of standard features. Among those are automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist and blind spot monitoring.

Plans are to release this 5 series in the fall, officially by October. Prices for the 540 will range from $58,895 to $65,895 with the EVs ranging from $67,795 to $85,095.

Other new touches!

Heading into 2024, the inclusion of hands-free driving with Highway Assistant is especially exciting! More advanced options like this and the world-first Active Lane Change with eye activation give drivers that extra boost of confidence. The hands-free driving allows drivers to go hands-free at speeds of up to 85 mph or 130 km/h thanks to an interior camera which monitors the drivers’ attention. The Active Lane Change is controlled by eye activation from within the vehicle’s cockpit.

There is also Lane Keeping Assistant with Side Collision Protection, Evasion Assistant and Cross Traffic Warning at front.

This vehicle in its eighth generation represents BMW’s clear intention to diversify within its 5 Series lineup. From style updates to more roominess within and impressive tech and safety features, this powerful sedan is steppin’ it up! Reserve yours today!