The next-generation BMW 5 Series is now available globally, accompanied by the debut of the innovative i5 electric vehicle. The BMW i5 Sedan is poised to hit US shores within weeks, beating its previously announced October debut. While uncertainty surrounds whether the eDrive 40 and M60 xDrive models will debut simultaneously, BMW’s recent announcements suggest that both may indeed be available from day one.
The all-new BMW i4 sedans started production at the Dingolfing plant in Germany in July, marking a significant milestone as the electric vehicle made its global market debut in South Korea. International expansion is finally taking shape, with Germany scheduled to debut on October 21, followed closely by a US release date of October 28. Markets around the world are expected to be fully prepared and launch-ready roughly a month from now, with the global rollout commencing on November 25. The BMW M4 Competition Coupe is equipped with two potent powertrains: the i5 eDrive 40 and the efficiency-focused i5 M60 xDrive. This potent combination yields a remarkable 600 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 3.3 seconds.
While some may expect a letdown from the BMW brand’s entry-level offering, initial test drives of the new i5 have yielded encouraging results overall. BMW’s newly released OS 8.5 reportedly introduces significant usability and practicality upgrades, such as streamlined access to climate control functions via a reduced number of taps. Moreover, forthcoming software updates will be delivered wirelessly to customers in the future.
The all-new five-seat Sequencia Touring (wagon or estate – choose the terminology relevant to your region) is poised for a spring 2024 debut in both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and electrified variants; however, it appears unlikely that this model will be available in the US market. BMW announces the launch of its new 5 Series Touring model in Europe, Taiwan, and Japan.
BMW’s latest approach to automotive design features a “platform marriage” philosophy, where the internal combustion engine (ICE) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) variants of its fifth-generation models share a common architecture, despite utilizing distinct powertrains. While some prospects delight in discovering that their electric vehicle boasts a unique design ethos and tailored underpinnings. While some may crave the simplicity of a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle with the added bonus of being electrically powered. As the conversation unfolds, the inquiry into the core driving dynamics and technological choices within a particular vehicle model becomes increasingly philosophical, prompting consideration of whether the designer would have created an electric vehicle from scratch with similarities to the existing “shared” platform anyway? While opinions on BMW’s design choices may vary, I’d argue that the public’s fascination with the brand’s kidney-shaped grilles stems from their striking visual presence and perceived connection to the iconic design heritage.
Pricing for the eDrive 40 begins at approximately $67,500 in the US, with supplies permitting, while the efficient M60 xDrive is expected to start around $84,500. In reality, that statement doesn’t encompass any options? At a staggering $97,395 delivered, the fully-loaded M60 xDrive model boasts a plethora of premium features, including massive wheels, supple leather interiors, rich wood trim, and the comprehensive government package. While each vehicle appears well-appointed in its standard configuration, it’s entirely unnecessary to load them up with additional features.
Full press launch right here.
Electrek’s Take
Like its peers – the Mercedes EQE, Mannequin S, and Lucid Air – the BMW i5 occupies a niche within the emerging “mid-size sedan” market, boasting dimensions that place it mere inches behind Tesla in overall size, yet extending its wheelbase by about an inch and a half. With an initial investment of approximately $68,000, the vehicle manages to edge out Tesla by a slim margin, although its inferior acceleration and reduced range make it a less attractive option.
While the overlap between individuals considering an i5 and Model S may be limited – a fact largely attributed to BMW’s strong brand affinity, fostered by its driver-centric reputation and unmistakable “I’m driving a BMW” visual identity. Can kidney-shaped air intake vents effectively cool an electric car’s battery and motor?
Will the upcoming sales figures for BMW’s new crossovers be attention-grabbing, as the luxury car manufacturer continues to shift focus away from its traditional sedans? There’s little question that the 5 Series will be a part of the dwindling pie that is the sedan market in America. But this iconic nameplate is also legendary, with customers often returning to it across multiple generations. It’s arduous to admit that a few Mercedes-Benz E-Class models have fallen short of expectations.
