With the arrival of the new i5 M60, the iconic luxury sedan takes a decisive step: it goes electric for the first time in its history. We had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of this sporty version for a week. With its dynamic performance, top-tier comfort, and cutting-edge technology, does the BMW i5 M60 xDrive truly mark the start of a new success story for the brand? Here’s our verdict.
Dimensions and Exterior Design: An Imposing Yet Refined Presence
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive stands out at first glance with its imposing dimensions, underscoring its status as a luxury sedan. With a length of 5.06 meters, a width of 1.90 meters, and a height of 1.51 meters, it surpasses competitors like the Mercedes EQE and Tesla Model S in size. This imposing stature is further reinforced by a generous 2,995 mm wheelbase, ensuring exemplary stability on the road.
In terms of design, it slightly deviates from the classic elegance of the previous generation (G30). The i5 M60 features more rounded lines, less sharp, even evoking the controversial E60 5 Series with its distinct headlight design. The sealed grille, illuminated by the optional “Iconic Glow,” and the optimized air intakes reflect BMW’s stylistic shift towards a softer, more refined look. The athletic silhouette is elegantly complemented by 20-inch aerodynamic wheels, though they feel somewhat undersized for this type of vehicle.
Interior Design and Ergonomics: A Technological and Eco-Responsible Cocoon
Inside the BMW i5 M60 xDrive, you are greeted by a highly technological environment inspired by the brand’s electric limousine, the i7. The cabin reflects BMW’s attention to detail, combining luxury, technology, and eco-responsibility. For the first time, the 5 Series adopts a fully vegan interior, using high-quality materials from the dashboard to the seats, including the steering wheel and door panels.
The driver’s area is dominated by a curved dual screen setup, combining a 12.3-inch digital dashboard and a 14.9-inch central display, all running on BMW Operating System 8.5. This system offers an intuitive interface with customizable vertical icons and a QuickSelect feature for easy access to key functions. The luminous Interaction Bar, previously seen on the i7, adds a futuristic touch while enhancing ergonomics. Additionally, touch-sensitive controls for door settings and illuminated inserts create a unique ambiance within the cabin.
As for comfort, the front seats are wide and generous, providing excellent lateral support, while the rear space is slightly more accommodating thanks to the extended wheelbase. The optional panoramic roof enhances the feeling of space and light in the cabin, making each journey more pleasant.
Powertrains: Power and Range Under Control
The BMW i5 is available in two versions: the eDrive40 and the M60 xDrive. The former, more modest, delivers 340 horsepower (250 kW) and 430 Nm of torque. The M60 xDrive we tested, on the other hand, raises the bar significantly with 601 horsepower (442 kW) and 820 Nm of torque. With its all-wheel-drive electric motor, the M60 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, an impressive feat for a nearly 2.3-ton sedan.
Range is also a key point for this new electric 5 Series. With a high-voltage 81.2 kWh battery, the M60 xDrive offers up to 516 kilometers of range in the WLTP cycle. The lighter and less powerful eDrive40 can reach up to 582 kilometers. In terms of charging, the BMW i5 allows for fast DC charging up to 205 kW, going from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes. BMW also innovates with the “Plug & Charge” feature, allowing the car to authenticate itself automatically at compatible charging stations, without the need for a card or app.
Driving Experience: Impressive Versatility
Behind the wheel, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive showcases two personalities. In Comfort mode, it transforms into a quiet and peaceful sedan, ideal for long journeys. The adaptive suspensions perfectly absorb road irregularities, offering a ride quality comparable to that of limousines. This mode highlights the premium comfort, a traditional strength of the 5 Series.
However, switching to Sport mode reveals the full fury of the M60 xDrive. Acceleration is sharp and immediate, delivering thrilling sensations, while the four-wheel steering improves maneuverability, even in tight corners. The near-perfect weight distribution (50/50) gives the i5 M60 exemplary road handling, akin to the best sports cars on the market. However, one small downside: the artificial sound generated in Sport mode lacks authenticity and can quickly become annoying. Fortunately, it can be turned off.
Facing the Competition: Tesla Model S and Mercedes EQE
In the luxury electric sedan segment, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive faces formidable rivals like the Tesla Model S and the Mercedes EQE. Compared to Tesla, the BMW stands out with a far more refined interior finish and superior comfort. However, the Tesla Model S retains an advantage in terms of range, particularly in the Plaid version, but the BMW i5 compensates with better build quality and a stronger dealership network.
As for the Mercedes EQE, it offers a slightly more spacious rear cabin, but it doesn’t reach the same level of technological innovation as the BMW. In terms of performance, the i5 M60 xDrive surpasses its direct competitors with faster acceleration and a more dynamic road behavior.
Price in Belgium: Luxury at a High Cost
In Belgium, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive starts at €109,300, reflecting its premium positioning. The model we tested, enhanced with options like the panoramic roof and M Performance paint, approached €125,000. For those seeking a more accessible alternative, the eDrive40 version is available from €73,700. These prices place the BMW i5 in line with its main rivals, justifying its cost with a very comprehensive standard equipment package and an uncompromising driving experience.
Conclusion: A True Success with Some Reservations
The BMW i5 M60 xDrive is undoubtedly a success for the Bavarian brand. Its design, both modern and elegant, masterfully combines sportiness and refinement. Inside, it impresses with its meticulous ergonomics and technological prowess, while offering top-notch comfort. On the road, the M60 xDrive excels both in comfort mode and sporty driving, providing a rare versatility in this segment.
However, a few weak points remain, notably the artificial sound in Sport mode and slightly limited rear space compared to its competitors. Moreover, its high price tag limits its appeal to wealthy buyers. Despite these reservations, the i5 M60 xDrive stands as a serious competitor to the Tesla Model S and Mercedes EQE, adding a touch of prestige unique to BMW.
Pros:
- Impressive performance
- Top-tier comfort and cutting-edge technology
- Elegant and modern design
Cons:
- Disappointing artificial sound
- Slightly limited rear space
- High price
