The 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 is a significant stride towards electrification in the world of automobiles. Unlike its predecessor, the 7 Series, which leaned more towards gasoline, the 5 Series arrives in North America with an even split between conventional and electric models. This pivotal shift signifies a gradual transition that retains the familiar appearance of the 5 Series while embracing the electric future.
At the heart of this transition lies the 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40, poised to become America’s electric volume leader. With over 50 years of heritage and more than 10 million units sold, the 5 Series has embraced electrification while maintaining its core identity. A test drive through the scenic roads of Lisbon, Portugal, confirms that the quintessential 5 Series experience thrives in the electric domain.
Despite being slightly larger than its predecessor, the new 5 Series maintains a sleek and understated appearance, drawing inspiration from its heritage. The subtle growth is exemplified by a design that echoes the E60 generation, particularly in the elegant nose and the harmonious integration of headlights and fenders. The compact tail adds a nod to the original E12-era 5 Series, underscoring the lineage.
While the front-end styling draws some influence from the X1, the gloss black trim serves a dual purpose by reducing weight and supporting the versatility of the platform, which caters to both internal combustion engines and electric powertrains.
The 2024 5 Series lineup offers a diverse range of options. It commences with the four-cylinder 530i and includes the iconic inline-six 540i xDrive. However, the eDrive40 stands out as the electric entry point, hinting at the brand’s commitment to electrification.
Under the hood, the electric motor produces 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, delivering instantaneous power that rivals even the sharpest of BMW’s gas-powered vehicles. The i5 eDrive40 excels as a luxury sedan, combining a smooth and quiet ride with the option to switch to Sport mode for added excitement.
While the 5 Series may appear compact from the outside, it drives with a commanding presence on the road. The steering is responsive, and the optional adaptive suspension ensures a comfortable ride, whether cruising on the highway or navigating winding coastal roads.
Beneath the car lies an 81.2-kWh battery pack, offering an estimated 295 miles of range in the US. A new Max Range function helps alleviate range anxiety by unlocking up to 25% more range while limiting the top speed and climate system usage.
Inside, the 5 Series exudes luxury and space. A distinctive glass light bar spans the dashboard, complementing the two-tier layout that subtly merges into the door panels. Material quality remains top-notch, with an added focus on sustainability, as the standard seating material is now vegan-friendly.
The 5 Series embraces cutting-edge technology, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch touchscreen with upgraded iDrive 8.5. Additional tech highlights include hands-free highway driving assistance and an array of entertainment options.
In terms of pricing, the 2024 5 Series lineup starts at $58,895 for the 530i, with the eDrive40 offering an enticing entry point into electrification at $67,795. The top-tier i5 M60 xDrive, priced from $85,095, promises exhilarating performance.
In summary, the 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of the 5 Series. It seamlessly combines electrification with the quintessential 5 Series experience, offering a compelling choice for those venturing into the world of electric luxury sedans.
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