The world of transportation has been revolutionized with the introduction of electric vehicles. Mass production and technological innovation have enabled automakers like BMW to build more efficient, powerful, and luxurious cars. BMW’s commitment to making luxurious performance cars has been clear since its first production model. Indeed, nearly a century later, this commitment continues with its all-electric lineup of vehicles. The German automaker recently released the electric 2024 BMW i5 sedan with plenty of new and old features. At first glance, it looks like any other five-series from BMW’s iconic lineup. However, beneath its stylish exterior lies incredible electrified power and cutting-edge technologies that rivals can hardly match. From long battery range to intuitive interior design, there are plenty of good things about the BMW i5. The BMW i5 has plenty to offer luxury car buyers, but with all the positive buzz surrounding it, some drawbacks could still be improved. Before you buy BMW i5 electric sedan, here are the pros and cons you need to consider before taking your sedan for a spin.
No Dearth Of Performance And Efficiency
One of the greatest benefits of going electric is the elimination of fossil fuels from daily commutes. It also reduces costs over time because electricity is much cheaper than gas. Likely no surprise here, but the biggest selling point for the BMW i5 is its all-electric efficiency. With so many options, like varying motor sizes and extra sporty features, the technology provides ample potential for a dynamic driving experience without sacrificing performance. The BMW i5 electric sedan comes with two drivetrains – the eDrive 40, which offers 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, the M60 xDrive ups the power to 590 horsepower and 586 pound-feet, granting you access to unprecedented speed and agility compared to other EVs.
No matter which powertrain you choose, one thing is for certain—the 2024 BMW i5 is extremely efficient. Each version offers Sport Boost mode that unlocks extra torque for short bursts of speed and acceleration. If performance is your priority, then the M60 xDrive model should pique your interest. M60 xDrive owners will benefit from a Sport Boost Mode, which temporarily boosts up to 605 pound-feet torque. This setup gives the BMW i5 electric supercar high acceleration levels with just the push of a button. Plus, with advanced active roll stabilization, rear steering design, and efficient brakes, the i5 ups the ante for cornering and handling. The i5 BMW can achieve a good range of up to 295 miles on a single charge for the eDrive40 model and 256 miles for the M60 xDrive. This amount of impressive range means fewer trips to the charging station. On top of that, drivers will benefit from fast-charging technology. The i5 can recharge 10–80 percent in 30 minutes thanks to its 11 kW Level 2 AC plugs and 205 kW Level 3 DC fast chargers.
The BMW i5 Is Luxurious To The Core
The days of having an ugly EV stuck out amongst your everyday cars are gone, thanks to the sleek design of the BMW i5. Unlike its competitors, the car appears surprisingly discreet while retaining a hint of luxury to remind people of its presence. There’s something timelessly appealing, perhaps influenced by the iconic three-series at play. The large panoramic roof is particularly appealing, which reveals almost the entire surface. Featuring BMW Operating System 8.5, the Curved Display provides an integrated 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster plus a 14.9-inch infotainment display screen in one pane of glass, collectively working together seamlessly, providing an intuitive and user-friendly experience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also make support connectivity possible, wireless device charging ensures you’ll have power when needed, and gesture controls give you innovative options to interact with your car. Heated seats and ambient lighting provide an extra touch of luxury in the BMW i5.
Furthermore, the Harman Kardon sound system ensures riders can be immersed in various soundscapes, from roaring pulses to vivid fluxes, for added enjoyment during each drive. Moreover, safety comes first on the list of priorities, and the BMW i5 electric sedan does not disappoint. As standard, the car comes fitted with a full suite of technologies like front collision mitigation with a left-turn warning, rear cross-traffic warning with brake intervention, lane keep assist with active blind-spot detection, and autonomous lane changes with eye activation. Those who feel daring can opt for the Driving Assistance Professional package, which unlocks hands-free driving up to 85 mph.
It Isn’t Cheap In The Top-of-the-line Performance Spec
Even though BMW i5 price tag is decent, shelling out $67,795 for the eDrive40 model or $86,095 for the AWD M60 xDrive variant may be too pricey for some. This BMW i5 price isn’t exactly pocket change unless you’ve got rather deep pockets, and it makes the car a less desirable purchase option for those looking within mid-range budgets. Factor in regular maintenance, such as brake pads and tires, and reduced resale value due to diminishing battery capacity over time, and things start to add up quickly. Moreover, adding optional upgrades and packages will push the price to more steep levels. As mentioned, the BMW i5 offers pretty good range capability, but compared to its competitors, the Air, it seems to come out short. Tesla’s Model 3 has a higher range rating of 333 miles, and the Lucid Air easily surpasses 400 miles with an estimated range of 406 miles. While these numbers might not make too much difference to everyday commuters, it’s worth noting for those frequent long-distance travelers as it may be a turn-off to them. Alongside range, the maximum charge rate must be considered part of quick road trip planning.
While the i5 reaches its peak rate of 205 kW relatively quickly, it falls behind other rivals, such as the Lucid Air rate of 300 kW (the second-fastest charging EV on the market). Although the infotainment inside the i5 is aesthetically pleasing and feature-rich, it struggles with usability issues because of its overly complex user interface. Without tactile buttons and knobs, the user interface becomes overly dependent on large touchscreen controls. The simultaneous use of haptic feedback and touchscreen technology can become overwhelmingly complex in day-to-day use. Though it’s worth lauding the automaker’s efforts to keep the car modern, BMW may need to rethink how this setup fairs in success later. Operating the navigation, audio, and climate settings simultaneously requires too much effort and thought– something less tech-savvy customers may struggle with. Fans of wagons will, unfortunately, remain curious until BMW decides to bring this popular body style back to American shores. Only overseas markets get to rock with the stylish high-roofed station wagon variant.
Balancing Out The Positives And Negatives
The BMW i5 represents an innovative step into the world of electric cars and undeniably brings a new level of excitement into the industry. Considering all the points above, the BMW i5 sedan proves to be an innovative and capable vehicle. Undoubtedly, the BMW i5 is a luxurious, high-performance electric sedan that promises to be a formidable competitor in the EV market. With its advanced technology, beautiful interior design, and powerful performance, the BMW i5 checks all the boxes for luxury cars. However, prospective buyers must remember that this still presents no small financial commitment and carries several shortcomings relative to its nearest competing models. Considering all the pros and cons of the BMW i5 before investing in it is ultimately important. Even so, the i5 BMW is a well-rounded choice if you want a premium, reliable, practical all-electric EV. And judging from the pros and cons presented above, the German brand truly means business in delivering an affordable and efficient choice for anyone willing to invest their hard-earned money into it.
