BMW unveils next-generation 5 series luxury sedan and introduces all-new i5 electric sedan with sharp looks
3 min read 25 May 2023, 10:17 AM ISTThe 2024 BMW 5 Series and i5 exhibit a sportier profile characterized by a reduced number of lines, enhancing their athletic appeal. The sleek appearance is further enhanced by the integration of flush door handles, creating a cleaner surface.
PremiumBMW has unveiled the latest iterations of its luxury sedan, the 5 Series, as well as its electric counterpart, the i5 electric sedan. The 2024 models showcase a refined design language that is more universally appealing compared to some of BMW's recent releases. Additionally, the i5 introduces an all-electric powertrain. Both the 5 Series and i5 are scheduled to be available in global markets starting from October this year, with an expected launch in India in the following year.
The latest generation of the BMW 5 Series, the eighth in its lineup, has undergone size enhancements, with an increase of 97 mm in length, 32 mm in width, and 36 mm in height compared to its predecessor. The wheelbase has also been extended by 20 mm, now measuring 2,995 mm.
In terms of aesthetics, the sedan features a more balanced design, showcasing a wider rendition of the iconic kidney grille, which bears similarities to the current model. Optional contour lighting from the 7 Series adds to its appeal. The headlamp design has been refreshed, featuring new twin boomerang-shaped DRLs reminiscent of the BMW X1. The headlights are equipped with Adaptive LEDs and offer an optional matrix high beam function.
Speaking of looks, the 2024 BMW 5 Series and i5 exhibit a sportier profile characterized by a reduced number of lines, enhancing their athletic appeal. The sleek appearance is further enhanced by the integration of flush door handles, creating a cleaner surface.
At the rear, the 5 Series showcases an upright boot lid with a downward angled edge, accompanied by wraparound LED taillights reminiscent of the 7 Series. The redesigned bumper adds a fresh touch to the overall design. On the other hand, the all-new BMW i5 distinguishes itself with a front grille that features a sleek, blanked-out design. Additionally, blacked-out side skirts and an M-specific diffuser at the rear contribute to a visually lighter appearance in the overall design.
The interior design of the latest BMW 5 Series follows the expected trajectory of newer BMW models. The updated generation now includes dual free-standing screens, consisting of a 12.3-inch digital instrument console and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Additionally, an optional interaction bar, initially introduced in the 7 Series, is available. The steering wheel has undergone a redesign, featuring a flat-bottom design, haptic feedback on the control panels, and a selector lever located on the center console.
Notably, the new 5 Series range stands out as the first BMW model to offer a fully vegan interior as standard, while optional equipment includes BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery. The luxury sedan also comes equipped with sports seats as a standard feature.
In terms of technology, the next-generation BMW 5 Series is equipped with the latest iDrive 8.5 system, which offers a range of new features and an enhanced user interface. Additionally, the vehicle introduces in-car gaming capabilities through the AirConsole platform. Notably, the new 5 Series includes autonomous driving features such as hands-free driving at speeds of up to 130 kmph, along with active lane change assist to further enhance the driving experience.
The BMW 5 Series will offer a variety of engine options, including four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel variants. These options range from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 205 bhp and 330 Nm of torque, to a more potent 3.0-liter straight-six engine producing 370 bhp and 540 Nm of torque in the 530i model. The 530d variant offers a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid version will be introduced to the lineup next year.
As for the BMW i5, it will be available in two versions: the M60 xDrive and eDrive 40. The M60 xDrive boasts impressive performance figures, with 442 kW (593 bhp), 820 Nm of torque, and a 0-100 kmph sprint time of 3.8 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 230 kmph, and it offers a range of 516 km on a single charge. On the other hand, the eDrive 40 version is slightly less powerful, featuring 250 kW (335 bhp), 430 Nm of torque, a 0-100 kmph acceleration time of 6 seconds, a top speed of 193 kmph, and a range of 582 km. Both versions utilize an 81.2 kWh battery pack.
The new BMW 5 Series also incorporates various features such as adaptive suspension, Integral Active Steering, optional Adaptive M Suspension Professional, and more. It will compete with rivals such as the Audi Q6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Jaguar XF, Volvo S90, and similar vehicles in the segment. Similarly, the BMW i5 will be pitted against the Mercedes-Benz EQE, which is also slated to launch in India.
