BMW has unveiled the i5 eDrive40 Touring, the electric version of its 5 Series station wagon. This move highlights the company’s commitment to offering a variety of powertrain options across its vehicle range, seamlessly blending traditional combustion engines with modern electric innovations.
The i5 Touring represents BMW’s answer to the growing demand for versatile and sustainable vehicle options. Echoing the trend set by other BMW models, such as the electric iX2 and i4, the i5 expands the brand’s electrification efforts within its prestigious 5 Series lineup.
Design and Specifications
The i5 eDrive40 Touring maintains the classic design ethos expected from the German automaker, achieving a balance between sporty flair and practicality. It measures a commanding 5.06 metres in length and 1.515 metres in height, presenting a substantial presence on the road. The station wagon configuration ensures generous space for passengers, complemented by a significant cargo capacity of 570 litres, expandable to 1,700 litres with seats folded.
Under the hood, the i5 Touring is powered by a synchronous motor generating 313 horsepower and a torque of 430 Nm, delivered through a rear-wheel-drive system. The vehicle achieves a top speed of 193 km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds. The car’s powertrain boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 6.96 kg/hp, showcasing the blend of performance and efficiency that electric vehicles can offer.
Performance and Features
The i5 comes equipped with an 81.2 kWh battery, promising a range of approximately 400 kilometres under typical driving conditions. For those opting to maximise efficiency, an Efficient Mode can be activated to enhance range further, albeit at reduced performance settings like a capped speed of 90 km/h.
Charging the i5 requires approximately 30 seconds per one percent at a DC charging station, a trade-off for the convenience of electric driving. The WLTP consumption of the vehicle is measured at 19.3 kWh per 100 kilometres, a figure reinforced by real-world tests showing a usage of 19.8 kWh/100 km.
Inside, BMW continues its tradition of creating luxurious environments with modern touches. The cabin features two digital screens that integrate seamlessly to provide driver information and entertainment functions. Heated and electrically adjustable front seats ensure comfort, while the mix of high-quality materials reinforces BMW’s reputation for build excellence.
The vehicle’s technology package includes advanced infotainment systems and voice control, which respond promptly and efficiently to user inputs, heightening usability.
Driving Experience
The inherent driving dynamics of BMW vehicles are retained in the i5 Touring, with precise steering and effortlessly modulated brakes delivering confidence on the road. Additional driver assistance systems are present to enhance safety and driving ease, available across multiple driving modes known as “My Modes.”
The i5 Touring, priced from AED340,000, with various optional packages like the M Sport Package Pro and Innovation Package, offers additional features and customisations, tailoring the driving experience to individual preferences.
The i5 Touring emerges as a noteworthy entry in BMW’s electric catalogue, combining the traditional luxury and performance expected from the brand with the advantages of electric mobility. As part of BMW’s ongoing electrification strategy, the i5 Touring is set to appeal to those seeking a premium, eco-friendly option without compromising on style or functionality. The electric station wagon is a significant addition to the evolving landscape of sustainable luxury automobiles.
