BMW is confident that buyers of the new 5-Series will be very receptive to the all-electric i5 version, so much so that it believes it will account for half of all 5-Series sales in Europe.
CarScoops recently had the opportunity to test out the flagship i5 M60 xDrive in South Carolina and we walked away very impressed. BMW believes that customers will be too and in addition to expecting a 50-50 sales split with the ICE model in Europe, believes the i5 will account for approximately 30% of global sales over the course of its life cycle, a spokesman told Auto News.
Powertrain options available for the new BMW 5-Series and i5 differ depending on the market. In the United States, the ICE family starts with the 530i sDrive that we drove earlier this month, equipped with a 2.0-liter mild-hybrid turbocharged four-cylinder, rear-wheel drive, and rated at 255 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm). This model starts at $57,900 plus a $995 destination and handling fee.
It is likely that those contemplating the 530i sDrive will also consider the entry-level i5 eDrive40. While this model is a little more expensive priced at $66,800, its single electric motor delivers an impressive 335 hp and 295 lb-ft (399 Nm), allowing the car to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.7 seconds and a 120 mph (193 km/h) top speed. The i5 eDrive40 has an estimated range of between 270 miles (434 km) and 295 miles (475 km).
Review: The 2024 BMW 530i sDrive Does More With Less
The American ICE range also includes the $64,900 540i xDrive with a 375 hp six-cylinder and in the not-too-distant future, a plug-in hybrid dubbed the 550e xDrive will be added to the range. This model will rock a six-cylinder petrol engine, an electric motor, and a 19.4 kWh battery pack, producing a combined 483 hp. It will start at $73,800. Those wanting even more performance can opt for the aforementioned i5 M60 xDrive priced from $84,100 with an 82 kWh battery, 593 hp, 550 lb-ft (744 Nm), and a 256 mile (411 km) range.
