The BMW i5—Best Luxury EV of 2024?

The green vehicle revolution is in full swing—there are now more options for environmentally-conscious cars than ever before in human history. With the selection of electric luxury cars getting bigger and bigger, how are you supposed to choose the best EV for your needs?

BMW has been steadily growing its electric fleet, first with the i4 and iX for the 2022 model year, then the i7 for 2023. Now for 2024, the roster gains its fourth member: the i5, an EV version of BMW’s iconic 5 Series line of sedans.

Could the i5 be BMW’s best electric vehicle offering yet?

i5 Models and Pricing

Currently, the i5 is available in two different powertrains:

• 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 – Starting MSRP of $66,800
• 2024 BMW i5 M60 – Starting MSRP of $84,100

Bimmer enthusiasts already know the naming convention. The eDrive40 contains a rear-wheel drive electric motor that prioritizes maximum range, and the M60 variant offers a thrilling, bombastic ride for performance enthusiasts. The eDrive40 is also available in both Sport and Convenience configurations. Both are outfitted with an impressive array of luxury features, and both retain similar dimensions to the gas-powered 5 Series, which has been freshly redone for 2024.

At this price point, the i5 comes in multiple thousands of dollars cheaper than the Audi Q8 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQE, and both the Tesla Model S and Model X. In the world of expensive electric vehicles, the i5 offers the same opulent quality for a fraction of the price tag.

i5 Range, Charging, and Performance

The maximum range for the i5—with the eDrive40 electric motor and 19-inch wheels—shakes out to 295 miles, which should be more than enough to quell even the most intense range anxieties. Utilizing the 205-kW system, drivers can add anywhere from 180 to 200 miles in a quick 30-minute DC fast-charging session, and level 2 charging can bring the battery from zero to full in under 10 hours. BMW has also partnered with Electrify America to guarantee two years of complementary charging, so no matter how you look at it, the i5 is road trip ready.

Adaptive recuperation and a novel cooling technology also work to extend range even farther. Battery energy is recovered using a customizable brake setting, which also allows for the ability to coast without electrical power. Under the right conditions, you may find that you have more battery life than you left the house with.

Drivers can also switch to a Max Range mode, which limits speed and acceleration for optimal efficiency. This setting can be left on at all times, or just used in a pinch to find the nearest charging station.

The eDrive40 achieves 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, with a temporary torque boost to 317 pound-feet when the launch button is activated. If you find yourself in need of even more power, the i5 M60 puts out an absolutely outrageous 593 hp, and does a zero-to-sixty run in just 3.7 seconds. Regardless of which powertrain you choose, this luxury EV has been optimized for performance and handling—in their review of the i5, the pros at Road & Track noted, “The steering is well-weighted and the brake pedal gives no hint that it’s blending motor regeneration and friction.”

The M60 also benefits from specially-tuned adaptive suspension, and all i5 models come with electronic dampers on both axles to ensure the smoothest ride possible.

i5 Tech and Amenities

As you’d expect, all i5 models come bursting at the seams with the very best comfort and infotainment features.

The central touchscreen display measures nearly 15 inches, and it curves to combine seamlessly with the 12.3-inch driver information center, creating a technological hub at your fingertips. It’s run by the iDrive 8.5 operating system, which receives regular over-the-air updates to provide a lag-free experience. The onboard navigation system gives drivers an intuitive interface to find compatible charging.

Passengers benefit from a premium sound system, which serves to cancel road noise and produce an immersive road experience. Legendary composer Hans Zimmer helped to create the one-of-a-kind soundscape, which pairs flawlessly with the My Modes ambiance customization feature.

The interior is fitted with elegant and sustainable Veganza upholstery, and above it all is an oversized moonroof to create an open-air feel.

Safety and driver assistance are front-and-center in the i5. The available Driving Assistance Professional with Highway Assistant allows for hands-free driving at highway speeds, and standard ADAS includes active blind spot detection, front collision warning, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, rear-view camera, adaptive headlights, and the Automatic Park Assistant with Backup Assistant.

The Next Great Electric Car is Here

It may be too soon to tell which contender will take the cake for best luxury EV, but the i5 is surely one to watch out for. Give us a call at (786) 577-5220 to test drive a BMW i5 today, and while you’re at it, be sure to check out our special offers on a BMW i5 lease in Miami.