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With its i5 First Drive, BMW is surely reinventing a classic – and has done a superb job at that while completely changing their approach! In what is a fully electric 5 Series, drivers seeking an upscale EV now have it all! With an expansion of the 5 Series into the G60 generation for 2024, combustion engines in the 530i and 540i share 48-volt mild hybrid augmentation. This unprecedented model will join the likes of the i4, i7 and iX in BMW’s ever-expanding and exciting EV lineup.
Returning to form, the i5M60 features a slightly longer, wider and taller look, while taking on an edgier and more attractive styling approach than models that came before. It still has the signature “shark nose” kidney grille, with LED illumination. A wide range of color choices are also available, adding to an overall sensational appearance.
This model is equipped with an 81.2-kWh lithium-ion battery, and two powertrain configurations are presented. Those include the i5 eDrive40, which has a single rear motor spinning out 335 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque normally, or 317 lb-ft when Sport Boost or launch control functions are activated. The highest spec model in the range, the i5 M60 xDrive has front and rear motors that combine to produce a whopping 593 hp and 549 lb-ft.
Those drivers who demand the sort of performance realized from the old M40i or M550i are better served with the M60. They will take advantage of real-world range in the high 200-miles.
Its range is equally impressive, reaching upwards of 295 miles for the i5 eDrive40 and 256 for the i5 M60, both of which sit atop 19-inch wheels as standard. These models have the ability to recharge at up to 205 kW on a Level 3 plug, which represents a new high for any BMW. With assistance from battery reconditioning, the i5 should be able to juice from 10-80 percent in roughly 30 minutes. Those owners charging at home can reach a maximum Level 2 charge rate of 11 kW.
Stylish, tech savvy and ultra spacious – those are just some of the descriptions of the interior of the i5, including luxurious crystal glass controls and the color-changing Interaction Bar chock full of decorative functionality. A fully vegan interior is also celebrated as standard, with BMW standing by claims that production of its new Veganza upholstery results in 85 percent less emissions compared to the real thing. Air vents are opened and closed using touch-sensitive sliders, and infotainment menus are intelligently designed with well-placed icons that are large enough to touch when traveling down the hilliest of back roads. The choice of standard or sport seats is equally excellent, with top notch quality through and through.
There is even a suite of video games and video-streaming software to help pass time during the charge.
In the area of space, the i5’s front chairs are highly adjustable, allowing for ample room, and head room is also plentiful.
Technology is ample and abounds within, including a standard dual-display cockpit which looks modish and just right-sized. A reduction in touchscreen tabs are also realized in its latest iDrive operating system. Driver-assist suites are also present, including hands-free operation with lane changes activated by a simple glance in a side-view mirror. How cool is that!?? Drivers utilizing the new Highway Assistant can take their hands off the wheel, but not their eyes off the road, acting in essence as the car’s supervisor, watching its movements and the traffic around it.
A more reactive accelerator is found here, as well as weightier steering and firmer ride quality. This vehicle launches from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, with all-wheel traction supplied by the dual motors resulting in confidence at each and every corner.
Swift and capable, the i5 M60 is outright sporty and gives drivers the thrill they desire on the open road.
With a transformation to an EV, this 5 Series is worth its weight in gold. It may simply be the best electric M car yet. It is also more than a match for its two biggest electric executive saloons on today’s market, the Mercedes EQE and Tesla Model S.
An extremely accomplished electric executive saloon, much better built than its competitor, the i5 M60 has it all! An all-time revival is found here – reserve yours today!