The BMW M5 has always been a vehicle with multiple personalities, seducing the elite with its executive charm while secretly harbouring a wild streak. Now the BMW 5 Series also comes with a greener outlook, but thankfully it’s just as dark.
BMW’s electric vehicle involvement dates back to the ’70s, but this latest twist brings electrification and “M” performance to the forefront. This car isn’t just a revolution; it’s an all-out monster, showcasing groundbreaking engineering and design that’ll leave you gasping in awe, or maybe, silently nodding in appreciation for its environmental responsibility.
Regardless of there being a small range of electric 5’s overseas, BMW have opted for just one, the top of the line M60 xDrive, so let’s begin with its power. Mounted way down low is a large 84 kWh battery that grants you a range of approximately 516 km when fully charged, but that’s just the start of the story. This hefty powerpack is then married to two motors that not only deliver a combined 442 kW of power and 840 Nm of torque, but propel this electric 5 Series to 100 km/h in a neck-snapping 3.8 seconds. Rest assured this isn’t just a typical sedan – it’s a true performance vehicle, complete with rear-wheel steering.
BMW has made it so simple even your technologically-challenged granny could do it. The i5 comes with advanced charging capabilities, supporting both AC and DC charging. With DC fast charging, you can go from 0% to 80% in a mere 30 minutes. Say goodbye to long charging sessions and hello to efficient road-tripping.
Outwardly, the new i5 embraces its kidney grilles by giving them an ‘iconic’ glow, and if that’s not enough to catch your eye, the headlights, cunningly mirroring the grille’s edge, providing a unique look in the dark. My i5 M60 model came with the carbon package option, serving up carbon mirror caps, door handles, and a tastefully subtle (and remarkably slim) carbon boot spoiler.
Completing my review model’s sporty yet elegant look was a blend of tanzanite blue paint and privacy glass, bringing a touch of mystery to those wanting to know who (or what) was being driven around in the rear seats.
Hop inside, and prepare to be embraced by the ultimate blend of space and luxury, with the front and rear seats offering more legroom and headspace than your average work cubicle. It’s a comfortable place with furniture that’s wrapped in dark leather that exudes an air of sophistication.
Speaking of sophistication, the aforementioned carbon package was on full display throughout the cabin too, appearing on the dashboard and doors—subtle but just enough to let you know it’s there.And if that’s not enough to impress, dazzling crystal elements are found on the iDrive dial, gear selector, start-stop button, and volume rocker, adding that extra touch of class.
Tech is aplenty, with the electric sedan’s curved display showcasing an infotainment screen and a driver instrument cluster, this setup immerses you in both entertainment and driving information. LED ambient lighting (with endless colour options) sets the mood, while Bowers and Wilkins speakers can be turned up to ear-bleeding volumes. As for all your practical needs, fear not—the 5 Series has you covered with generous door bins, convenient storage spaces, and yes, you guessed it, four-zone climate control.
But enough with the eye candy; let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the driving experience. The i5 delivers excellent visibility, precise steering, and an impressive turning circle, thanks to its rear-wheel steering. The acceleration is downright exhilarating, giving you that unmistakable M-car punch, especially when you pull back on the boost paddle behind the steering wheel.
Sure, the steering might not offer as much road feel as you’d hope, but this is more than compensated by the car’s dynamic capabilities. With advanced driving assistance and innovative features, this machine is not just fun—it’s a well-rounded performer that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.
As for the i5’s ‘real world’ range, to be honest it’s hard for me to be completely objective. The thrilling and aggressive driving in the i5 is so tempting that I rarely went anywhere without squeezing the accelerator, which obviously impacted the projected kms. That being said, Ido believe that if you’re willing to rein in your inner speed demon, the 5 Series does offer impressive range when driven, dare I say, ‘responsibly.’ Plus there are modes like efficiency and ‘maximum range’ that can help conserve energy, giving you that extra peace of mind to comfortably get you home. And let’s not forget about the regenerative braking system, which captures and stores energy during deceleration, further boosting its efficiency credentials.
The i5 sustainability game is top-notch. With zero tailpipe emissions, and a brand that focuses on its green footprint, this car is doing its part to reduce CO2s. And as for safety, the i5 Series sports a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features that’ll make you feel like you have your own personal chauffeur. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring are just a few of the smart technologies at your disposal. With state-of-the-art sensors and cameras watching your back, you can navigate the roads with confidence. There’s even an onboard camera that allows you to take selfies of you and your passengers – the less said about that the better.
The new BMW i5 M60 xDrive is a thrilling combination of exceptional performance and sustainable driving. It dons a striking design, a luxurious interior, and a powerful electric drivetrain that brings the iconic 5 Series boldly into the future. Whether you’re an eco-warrior or simply crave a heart-racing driving experience, this 5 Series variant is a choice you won’t soon forget. Maybe it should only be available in dark green though.
