BMW i5 first drive | the best electric executive?

The i5 continues BMW's winning streak at making class-best electric models. Not only is the i5 cheaper than its competitors, it offers high levels of luxury, driver engagement and capability. 

Overview

BMW has made a bold statement by launching its all-new 5 Series as an electric car first. The i5 is the latest in a line of excellent electric cars from the brand and we expect it to be a highly desirable fleet model.

In the coming months, petrol and plug-in hybrid versions of the 5 Series will be launched, but for now the electric i5 is the only one on offer.

The 5 Series has enjoyed great success in the fleet market as a model that is both aspirational and attainable. Previous generations have offered broad line-ups, with models to suit many budget. Now, for the first time, there’s an all-electric variant which promises to offer all the same great 5 Series attributes, but with zero tailpipe emissions.

Pricing for the i5 starts at £66,790, making it significantly more expensive than the 5 Series has ever been before.

There’s a choice of two powertrains: the rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 and the all-wheel-drive M60. Both use an 81.2kWh battery (usable), giving WLTP ranges of up to 362 and 320 miles, respectively.

The exterior design is imposing but less daring than some of BMW’s other recent efforts. The front kidney grilles have grown in width but don’t devour the entire bumper. At the rear, it’s a more svelte aesthetic. As with other BMW electric models, the i5 will bear almost no visual differences to its 5 Series twin.

Comfort and practicality

Sublime, effortless, outstanding. These are some of the words that best describe the i5. It absolutely captures the essence of the 5 Series, offering comfort levels that are up there with the best of the luxury segment.

The eighth-generation 5 Series has grown in length by 97mm to 5,06mm, in width by 32mm to 1,900mm and in height by 36mm to 1,515mm. The wheelbase has been increased by 20mm to 2,995mm for improved passenger space, especially in the rear.

Its spacious cabin is clad in high quality materials with large, supportive seats and a smart minimalist dashboard.

The front seats are heated and electrically adjustable. As an option, they can be cooled as well. In the rear, the seats feature a 40:20:40 folding capability, extending the 490-litre boot’s capacity.

It is the first BMW in the UK to feature Veganza upholstery – a synthetic leather – as standard, which forms part of the brand’s focus on sustainability.

Complementing the regular interior trims, BMW has equipped the i5 with illuminated panels that provide a unique appearance using ambient lighting.

BMW has also implemented a new type of ventilation system that uses hidden vents to direct air at the front seat passengers.

For those that require greater practicality, BMW will offer an i5 Touring model.

Safety and technology

The i5 benefits from the very latest technology from BMW, incorporating its newest iDrive infotainment system – which is the best in the business. A pair of curved digital screens dominate the dashboard, encompassing the driver, and there are almost no physical controls or switches. Thankfully, the rotary iDrive controller is still located in the centre console.

A Harmon Kardon sound system is fitted as standard, using an array of 12 speakers to provide high-quality sound. The audio system also provides the BMW Iconic Sounds feature, which pipes in a synthesised sound as the car accelerates and gives a more sensory experience on board.

While the minimalist dashboard is slick and modern, we found the lack of a buttons a little frustrating. Even simple tasks like resetting the trip computer or adjusting the follow distance of the adaptive cruise control require a degree of fiddling around in the system.

There are many other technology highlights, including an automatic payment system for use at rapid charging stations and a proactive maintenance service, which monitors the car in real-time and can alert drivers to potential issues. It also includes a remote diagnostic capability.

Driveability and range

BMW has had great success in developing electric cars that share platforms with ICE vehicles and the i5 is no exception. The ride is smooth and the quietness creates a sense of isolation, but when driven with more enthusiasm the i5 comes alive like a BMW saloon should.

While it's not quite as nimble as an i4, the i5 can be engaging or relaxing as and when required.

The eDrive40 has ample power, with 340PS and 400Nm available. It accelerates briskly, delivering punchy responses to prods of the throttle. Short bursts of additional power (+30Nm) can be enabled by pulling the ‘Boost’ paddle on the left of the steering wheel.

Alongside its dynamic capabilities, the i5 also delivers impressive efficiency. Our testing, in colder weather, achieved 3.1mi/kWh and we’d expect a real-world range of around 250-270 miles, which is competitive in this class.

M60 models are more ferocious, delivering neck-snapping acceleration and even more engaging handling. The two motors are power hungry, however, giving a real-world achievement of around 230 miles.

Company car tax and running costs

The i5 sits among the Audi e-Tron GT,  Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes EQE at a price point more akin to the 7 Series than the 5 Series. When wholelife costs are considered, the car becomes more attractive. Running costs of 73p per mile should be expected, which undercuts the e-tron GT (92ppm) and the I-Pace (90ppm) considerably.

Drivers will undoubtedly be attracted by the benefit in kind tax of £49 per month (40% taxpayer). The i5 may also appeal to those in salary sacrifice schemes.

BMW introduced a new entry-level model to appeal to fleet customers. The i5 Sport Edition uses the same eDrive40 powertrain but cuts the list price from £74,105 for the M Sport to £66,790.

To compare company car tax and running costs, click here.

Charging speeds

3-pin plug: 42 hours

7kW wallbox: 13 hours

11kW AC: 8.75 hours

205kW DC rapid: 28 mins (10-80%)

Click here for full real-world charging and range data.