BMW i5: Price, Range, Specs & Review
The BMW i5 is a midsize luxury electric sedan for buyers who want the comfort, technology, and road manners of a BMW 5 Series without a gasoline engine.
For 2027, the i5 lineup includes the rear-wheel-drive eDrive40, all-wheel-drive xDrive40, and performance-focused i5 M60. The eDrive40 is the best choice for most buyers because it provides the longest range, a lower purchase price, and more than enough performance for daily use.
The i5 is quiet, refined, spacious, and packed with useful technology. Its main weaknesses are a high starting price, modest fast-charging speed compared with newer 800-volt EVs, and range that trails the best long-distance electric sedans.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.4/10
WheelPedia’s score is an editorial assessment based on current specifications, safety equipment, ownership factors, pricing, and class context.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 8.5/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and ownership | 8.2/10 | 15% |
| Performance and driving | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and practicality | 8.8/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency and range | 8.2/10 | 15% |
| Features and technology | 9.0/10 | 10% |
| Price and value | 7.6/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.4/10 | — |
Read How We Rate Cars to see how WheelPedia calculates vehicle ratings.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $67,100 MSRP for the 2027 BMW i5 eDrive40, before destination, taxes, registration, dealer fees, and options.
- Choice of rear-wheel drive or dual-motor xDrive all-wheel drive.
- BMW-estimated range of up to 310 miles in the eDrive40.
- Up to 593 horsepower in the i5 M60.
- BMW-estimated 0–60 mph time of 5.4 seconds for the eDrive40 and 3.7 seconds for the i5 M60.
- Native NACS charge port for direct access to compatible Tesla Superchargers.
- CCS and J1772 adapters are included.
- Supports DC fast charging at up to 205 kW.
- Level 2 home charging can fully recharge the battery overnight.
- Spacious five-passenger cabin with a conventional sedan trunk.
- Standard high-voltage battery coverage lasts 8 years or 100,000 miles.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | BMW i5 |
| Vehicle type | Midsize luxury electric sedan |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Battery capacity | 84.3 kWh gross; about 81.2 kWh usable |
| Power output | 335–593 hp |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive |
| Fastest BMW-estimated 0–60 mph | 3.7 seconds |
| Maximum BMW-estimated range | Up to 310 miles |
| DC fast charging | Up to 205 kW |
| Length | 199.2 in. |
| Wheelbase | 117.9 in. |
| Cargo capacity | About 17.3 cu. ft. |
| Towing capacity | Not rated for towing in the US |
Expert Tip:
Choose the i5 eDrive40 unless you regularly need all-wheel drive or genuinely want M60-level speed. It offers the best balance of range, comfort, power, and purchase price.
About the BMW i5
The i5 is the fully electric version of the BMW 5 Series sedan. It shares much of its cabin design, exterior shape, and technology with gasoline and plug-in-hybrid 5 Series models.
That makes the i5 appealing for buyers who want an EV that still feels like a traditional executive sedan. Its design is familiar, its cabin is roomy, and its controls will feel more natural to many luxury-car buyers than a minimalist touchscreen-focused EV interior.
The i5 is not BMW’s newest dedicated EV platform, so it does not offer the extreme charging speed or maximum range expected from the next generation of electric vehicles. Still, it is a polished and comfortable long-distance EV with enough range for most owners.
Price and Trims
These are current US starting MSRPs for the 2027 BMW i5. Prices exclude destination, taxes, title, registration, dealer fees, accessories, and options.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | Power | BMW-Estimated Range | Best For |
| i5 eDrive40 | $67,100 | RWD | 335 hp | 278–310 miles | Most buyers and maximum range |
| i5 xDrive40 | $70,100 | AWD | 389 hp | 259–278 miles | All-weather traction |
| i5 M60 | $84,100 | AWD | 593 hp | 259–277 miles | Performance-focused buyers |
The i5 eDrive40 is the smart choice. Its 335-hp rear electric motor is smooth and quick, while its range is better than the all-wheel-drive versions.
The i5 xDrive40 adds a front motor and all-wheel drive. It makes sense for drivers who regularly face snow, rain, steep driveways, or poor road conditions.
The i5 M60 is extremely quick and adds M-specific suspension tuning, steering, brakes, and styling. It is impressive, but it is also expensive and less efficient than the other versions.
Electric Motors, Performance, and Driving Experience
| Trim | Motors | Drivetrain | Power | BMW-Estimated 0–60 mph |
| i5 eDrive40 | Single electric motor | RWD | 335 hp | 5.4 seconds |
| i5 xDrive40 | Dual electric motors | AWD | 389 hp | 4.9 seconds |
| i5 M60 | Dual electric motors | AWD | 593 hp | 3.7 seconds |
The eDrive40 is not slow. Its instant electric torque makes it feel strong around town and relaxed on the highway. It suits the i5’s role as a refined executive sedan.
The xDrive40 adds more confident all-weather traction and a quicker response when accelerating from lower speeds.
The M60 is a serious performance sedan. It reaches 60 mph in about 3.7 seconds, which puts it in sports-car territory. It also has M Sport brakes, M-specific suspension tuning, Integral Active Steering, and M-specific displays.
The M60 is exciting, but its extra power comes with a higher price, firmer ride, bigger wheels, more expensive tires, and reduced efficiency.
Range, Battery, and Charging
The BMW i5 uses an 84.3-kWh battery pack with approximately 81.2 kWh of usable capacity.
| Trim | BMW-Estimated Range |
| i5 eDrive40 | 278–310 miles |
| i5 xDrive40 | 259–278 miles |
| i5 M60 | 259–277 miles |
Range varies with wheel size, tire choice, highway speed, terrain, outside temperature, battery condition, cabin climate use, and driving style.
The eDrive40 is the right i5 for buyers who take frequent road trips. Its 310-mile maximum range is solid, though it is behind newer EVs such as the Lucid Air and Mercedes-Benz EQE in their most efficient configurations.
Charging Times
| Charging Method | Expected Result |
| 120V household outlet | Slow; best for emergency or low-mileage use |
| 240V Level 2 charging | Full charge in roughly 10–12 hours |
| DC fast charging | 10–80% in about 30 minutes under suitable conditions |
| Maximum DC charging rate | Up to 205 kW |
For 2027, the i5 uses a native NACS charge port. That gives it direct access to compatible Tesla Superchargers without requiring a NACS adapter.
BMW includes adapters for J1772 Level 2 chargers and CCS DC fast chargers, which makes the i5 more flexible for public charging and home charging.
Efficiency
The eDrive40 is the most efficient i5 version. Depending on configuration, it can achieve up to around 110 MPGe combined.
The xDrive40 uses more energy because of its second motor and all-wheel-drive hardware, while the M60 has the highest electricity use because of its added power, larger wheels, and performance-focused setup.
| Model | Efficiency Position |
| i5 eDrive40 | Best choice for efficiency |
| i5 xDrive40 | Moderate efficiency with all-wheel drive |
| i5 M60 | Lowest efficiency; prioritizes performance |
The i5 does not use gasoline, but charging costs still depend on local electricity rates and where you charge. Home charging is usually cheaper than frequent DC fast charging.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The i5 has a spacious, upscale cabin with a wide dashboard, curved display, comfortable front seats, and more rear-seat room than the smaller BMW i4 Gran Coupe.
Standard and available features include:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument display
- 14.9-inch central touchscreen
- BMW Operating System 8.5
- BMW Curved Display
- Navigation
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- BMW Digital Key Plus
- My BMW app connectivity
- Heated front seats
- Available ventilated front seats
- Available front-seat massage function
- Available heated rear seats
- Available heated steering wheel
- Available Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof
- Available Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System
- Available head-up display
- Video streaming while parked
- AirConsole in-car gaming while parked
- Available Parking Assistant Professional
- Available Driving Assistant Professional
The front seats are excellent for commuting and long road trips. The rear seats are roomy enough for adults, although the center rear seat is narrow and less comfortable than the two outer positions.
The i5’s cabin feels more premium than the i4’s, especially when fitted with available leather upholstery, glass controls, upgraded audio, and comfort packages.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 199.2 in. |
| Width | 74.8 in. |
| Height | 59.6 in. |
| Wheelbase | 117.9 in. |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Cargo space | About 17.3 cu. ft. |
The i5 has a conventional sedan trunk rather than the liftback opening found in the i4 Gran Coupe. Its trunk is large enough for luggage, grocery runs, and typical business travel, but it is less flexible for bulky cargo.
The rear seats fold in a 40/20/40 split, which helps with skis, longer boxes, and other items that will not fit through the trunk opening.
The i5 is more practical for rear passengers than the i4, but buyers needing SUV-level cargo capacity should consider the BMW iX instead.
Exterior Design
The i5 looks almost identical to the gasoline-powered BMW 5 Series. Its clean sedan profile may appeal to buyers who prefer a discreet luxury EV rather than a futuristic design statement.
Exterior highlights include:
- LED headlights and taillights
- Available Iconic Glow illuminated kidney grille
- Available Dynamic Light Carpet
- Available Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof
- Available M Sport package
- Available M-specific styling on the M60
- Available 19-, 20-, and 21-inch wheel designs
- Flush-mounted door handles
- Available M Sport brakes
The eDrive40 and xDrive40 look elegant and restrained. The M60 adds darker trim, sportier wheels, M-specific details, and a more aggressive stance.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard and available driver-assistance features include:
- Forward collision warning
- Automatic emergency braking
- Pedestrian detection
- Lane Departure Warning
- Active Blind Spot Detection
- Rearview camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Automatic high beams
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available Steering Assistant
- Available Highway Assistant
- Available Active Lane Change
- Available surround-view camera system
- Available Parking Assistant Professional
- Available remote-control parking
The available Driving Assistant Professional package includes Highway Assistant, which can provide hands-free driving support on eligible controlled-access highways at speeds up to 85 mph. It does not make the i5 self-driving; the driver must remain attentive and ready to take over.
Current US crash-test data for the 2027 i5 is limited. Before purchase, check the latest NHTSA safety database for ratings, recalls, and notices for the exact vehicle.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The i5 has fewer routine service needs than a gasoline-powered luxury sedan. It does not need oil changes, spark plugs, exhaust-system repairs, or many of the fluid services required by internal-combustion vehicles.
However, it remains a high-tech luxury sedan with expensive tires, advanced electronics, cameras, driver-assistance sensors, and potentially costly body repairs.
BMW’s US coverage includes:
| Coverage | Length |
| New vehicle limited warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Scheduled maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| High-voltage battery defect warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Battery capacity coverage | 8 years / 100,000 miles if capacity falls below 70%, subject to BMW terms |
For a used BMW i5, check:
- Battery-condition information
- Charging speed and charging-port condition
- Tire age and wear
- Suspension and steering operation
- Software updates
- Driver-assistance camera and sensor operation
- Accident history
- Open recalls
Read How to Check a Car’s Accident History and use a VIN check before buying a used EV.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Strong 310-mile maximum range
- Smooth, quiet driving experience
- Excellent front-seat comfort
- Useful rear-seat space
- Native NACS charging port
- Strong technology package
- Up to 593 hp in the M60
- Well-controlled ride for a large EV sedan
- Comprehensive battery coverage
What We Don’t Like
- High starting price
- DC fast charging is not class-leading
- Conventional trunk is less useful than a liftback
- Range trails some newer EV competitors
- Options can raise the final price quickly
- M60 is expensive and less efficient
- Large wheels can reduce range and ride comfort
- No US towing rating
- Some climate and vehicle controls rely on the touchscreen
Competitors
The BMW i5 competes with:
- Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan
- Tesla Model S
- Lucid Air
- Audi A6 e-tron
- Porsche Taycan
- Genesis Electrified G80
- Polestar 4
- BMW i7
The Mercedes-Benz EQE offers a more aerodynamic shape and a quiet cabin, while the Lucid Air offers much stronger range in several versions.
The Porsche Taycan is the better choice for sharp handling and fast charging, but it is more expensive and less rear-seat-friendly.
The BMW i7 is the larger, more luxurious alternative for buyers who want more rear-seat comfort and premium features.
Related Content
For a smaller BMW EV with a liftback cargo opening and lower pricing, compare the BMW i4 Gran Coupe.
For a larger electric BMW sedan with a more luxurious rear seat, see the BMW i7.
For an electric BMW SUV with more cargo room and a higher seating position, compare the BMW iX.
Before buying an EV, read How Electric Cars Work, How to Charge an Electric Car, and What EV Range Really Means.
Should You Buy the BMW i5?
Buy the BMW i5 if you want a comfortable, well-built luxury electric sedan that feels familiar and works well for commuting, highway travel, and carrying adults in the rear seats.
Choose the i5 eDrive40 if you want the best overall version. It has strong range, enough power, rear-wheel-drive balance, and the lowest entry price.
Choose the i5 xDrive40 if you need all-wheel drive for winter or wet-weather driving.
Choose the i5 M60 if serious acceleration and M performance hardware matter more than price, efficiency, and ride comfort.
Skip the i5 if you need the longest available EV range, the fastest charging stops, SUV cargo capacity, or the lowest possible purchase price.
BMW i5 FAQs
How much does the BMW i5 cost?
The 2027 BMW i5 starts from $67,100 MSRP for the eDrive40. The xDrive40 starts from $70,100, while the i5 M60 starts from $84,100. Destination, taxes, registration, dealer fees, packages, and options raise the final price.
What is the range of the BMW i5?
BMW estimates the i5 eDrive40 can travel 278–310 miles on a full charge. The xDrive40 is rated at 259–278 miles, while the M60 is rated at 259–277 miles, depending on wheel and tire configuration.
Is the BMW i5 all-wheel drive?
The i5 xDrive40 and i5 M60 have dual-motor all-wheel drive. The i5 eDrive40 has one rear electric motor and rear-wheel drive.
How fast is the BMW i5?
BMW estimates the i5 eDrive40 reaches 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, the xDrive40 in 4.9 seconds, and the i5 M60 in 3.7 seconds.
How much horsepower does the BMW i5 have?
The i5 eDrive40 has 335 horsepower, the xDrive40 has 389 horsepower, and the M60 has 593 horsepower.
How long does it take to charge a BMW i5?
With a 240V Level 2 charger, the i5 can fully charge in roughly 10–12 hours. On a compatible DC fast charger, BMW estimates a 10–80% charge in about 30 minutes.
Can the BMW i5 use Tesla Superchargers?
Yes. The 2027 BMW i5 has a native NACS charge port and can use compatible Tesla Superchargers. BMW includes CCS and J1772 adapters for other public and home chargers.
Does the BMW i5 have a battery warranty?
Yes. BMW covers the i5’s high-voltage battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles. Battery-capacity coverage applies if the battery falls below 70% capacity during the coverage period, subject to BMW warranty terms.
How much cargo space does the BMW i5 have?
The BMW i5 has about 17.3 cubic feet of trunk space. Its rear seats fold in a 40/20/40 split for longer items.
Can the BMW i5 tow a trailer?
BMW does not provide a US towing rating for the i5. It should not be purchased as a towing vehicle.
Does the BMW i5 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. The BMW i5 includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Final Verdict
The BMW i5 is a strong electric luxury sedan for buyers who want comfort, mature technology, a spacious cabin, and a driving experience that still feels recognizably BMW.
The i5 eDrive40 is the smart buy. It has the longest range, the lowest price, and enough performance for nearly every buyer.
The xDrive40 is the choice for all-weather traction, while the M60 is a rapid electric sport sedan for drivers comfortable with its higher price and operating costs.
The i5 is not the best EV for maximum range or ultra-fast charging. But if you want a refined electric sedan that feels at home on a long highway trip and does not force you to adapt to a radically different car, it is one of the better options in its class.
Prices, specifications, range, charging speeds, safety ratings, recalls, and feature availability can change by model year, trim, options, and market.