The selection of executive electric cars feels overwhelming nowadays, with so many brilliant models competing for your attention. The good news is that the range of the BMW i5 makes this a straightforward decision, as there is an attractive solution for just about any requirement. After driving these various models extensively, I can tell you that the choice between the sporty Saloon and the practical Touring, or between the well-rounded eDrive40 and mind-blowing M60, really comes down to what you want from a car. This BMW i5 review aims to get under the skin of the entire range and help you spot your ideal match.

The i5 is not just one car, but rather a meticulously crafted lineup of vehicles that each have their own unique character. Corporate car driver looking for efficiency and tax benefits, or family in need of the most practical transport of all, or perhaps even an enthusiast seeking exhilarating performance without the tailpipe emissions – there’s an i5 that suits your way of life. BMW has brought its ever-engaging driving dynamics and wrapped them in the quiet, effortless power of an executive EV, resulting in a car that is both familiar and futuristic. We will see how they handle in the real world, on the city streets and on the back roads.

During this deep dive, we’re going to cover the big differences, from the practicality of the BMW i5 Saloon vs Touring to the performance gap between the eDrive40 and the M60 xDrive. We will review how they drive, how practical they are for everyday use and what they will cost to own and operate. When we’re done, you’ll know what’s unique about each configuration, so you can decide with confidence which one of these fantastic EVs is right for you. Let’s find your perfect match.

A Quick Look at What This BMW i5 Review Covers

• Choose your style: Choose between the traditional four-door Saloon and the incredibly versatile five-door Touring estate.
• Select your power: Let’s compare the rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 with the all-wheel-drive, high-performance M60 xDrive.
• Explore performance: Explore the refined 340 hp eDrive40 or exhilarating 601 hp M60 xDrive.
• Analyse practicality: Comparison of the differences in boot space and practicality of the BMW i5 Saloon and Touring.
• Evaluate ownership: Gain insight into the realistic range and charging costs as well as the general ownership experience of our top executive EV.

On the Road: Dissecting the BMW i5’s Driving Dynamics

Driving any BMW i5 is a lot of fun, an ultra-luxurious moment that sets you up for the road ahead. But what does it actually mean to drive on the road? The difference between the vehicles is substantial, and your own ideal will be influenced by whether you are travelling through urban jungles on a daily basis, motoring along on motorways or finding excitement on pretty winding country roads. The core of i5 is still refined tranquillity and effortless power, providing a relaxing yet engaging experience no matter where you are.

On the road, the two eDrive40 and M60 versions were quietly impressive in the city and easy to handle. The electric motor’s instant torque made driving on crowded streets effortless, allowing you to make quick and silent starts from stoplights or tight fit manoeuvres on the road. The cabin is so quiet that you are effectively insulated from the noise and hustle of the exterior, allowing you to take in a relaxing, private environment. Complementing this is a beautifully judged ride that just soaks up potholes and uneven road surfaces, particularly on models not equipped with the firmer M Sport suspension. A standout feature I found stellar in city driving: adaptive regeneration. This intelligent system, based on navigation, video and radar technology, knows when to drive on a straight path without braking or when to brake to coast and harvest energy from the wheels on the batteries. It also provides superbly smooth and natural one-pedal operation, helping make the stop-start rhythm of city driving more manageable.

BMW i5 review: new fast lane Executive motoring As Soon As you exit the congested city streets and open up the throttle on the highway, the BMW i5 shows its true Self as a phenomenal executive cruiser. It has a feel of solidity and stability at high speed, rolling over the miles in quasi-uninterrupted comfort. BMW’s excellent range of driver assistance systems, some of the best I’ve ever tested, also makes long-distance travel far less tiring. They provide confident, seamless support that enhances safety and reduces driver burden. All the power you could ever want for the most determined overtaking in the eDrive40 realm, also manifesting as a fluid, linear driving experience. Instead, the M60 is turbocharged and holds the same functions but with a savage violence approaching supercar quickness, a continuous reminder of the mind-blasting power at your beck and call.

• Instant Electric Torque: Smooth stop-start patterning and concise urban punches from a triangle form.
• Adaptive Regeneration System: Everything you could need in the city, a comfortable drive, convenient transport, high quality and full efficiency in one package.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: Less tired, safer for long distances on the highway.
• Serene Cabin Insulation: Quiet, smooth and comfortable ride that isolates road/wind noise.
• eDrive40 Powertrain: There was tons of power to be had, and it was delivered smoothly, so passing was effortless and cruising was easy.
• M60 xDrive Powertrain: Sporty car power and performance for an exciting, dynamic drive.

The Heart of the Matter: A Closer Look at the BMW i5 Powertrains

The powertrain you choose defines not only the i5’s heart but the foundation of its character. It’s a choice that makes all the difference, from how much you’ll enjoy driving it on a daily basis to how much fun it’ll give you on a spectacular stretch of road. The choice is basically boiled down to a single, yet important question: Do you want calm, efficient and engaging dynamics, or do you want your balls to be sucked out with mind-blowing acceleration and the best in performance technology? Both choices offer strong, if very different, cases that appeal to very different priorities of drivers.

The eDrive40 is the sensible BMW i5 that’s also a whole lot of fun. To be perfectly clear: “sensible” here is not code for boring. With a waist-crunching 340 horsepower sent to the rear wheels, this version blasts through 0-62 mph in a little over 6 seconds, which is more than enough muscle for pretty much anything you’ll be asked to do in real life. The result is a smooth, delicious wave of torque which delivers that classic engaging rear drive feel that has long been a hallmark of the BMW brand. On a twisty road, it’s razor sharp, well balanced and surprisingly nimble for a car of its size, showing that efficiency and driver’s pleasure aren’t mutually exclusive concepts. The eDrive40 strikes the right balance between addictive power, amazing range and real-world comfort for a lot of drivers.

But if you want the undisputed king of the electric 5 Series, the M60 xDrive is your only option. This is not just a sportier variant; the i5 has been completely re-engineered into a high-performance vehicle that really deserves its M badge. Two electric motors delivering a mind-blowing 601 hp and driving through the xDrive all–wheel system, it zooms from 0-62 mph in an eye-watering 3.8 seconds. The grip is so enormous, it gives you the confidence to use all that power in any weather condition. The M60 enjoys the full M-division treatment, including M-tuned adaptive suspension, active anti-roll bars and rear-wheel steering. The end result is a car that feels its way through corners with an almost preternatural ease, completely glued to the road at all times, and one that delivers such an exhilarating drive that it really is a genuine M car for the electric age.

• eDrive40 Rear-Wheel Drive: Classic and addictive driving, along with a balanced and nervous handling.
• eDrive40 340 hp Output: Powerful, linear acceleration with more power than you need for a confident daily drive and for passing.
• M60 xDrive All-Wheel Drive: Outstanding grip and stability for confident use of power in any condition.
• M60 601 hp Dual-Motor Output: Supercar-speed acceleration delivers an electrifying and immersive ride.
• M-Tuned Chassis Components: Enhanced cornering agility and road-holding for a more exciting drive.

Practicality and Life Inside the BMW i5

A truly great executive car must do it all for everyone who is inside it must be a comfortable, practical and inviting space for driver and passengers alike. This is true BMW territory, and the i5 delivers with an exquisitely crafted cabin that is luxurious and high-tech at the same time. However, the most important practical choice you will have to make is deciding between the Saloon and Touring body variants, because this decision means your car’s versatility and how well it fits into your daily life.

The BMW i5 Saloon has a sizable boot with 490 litres of space, which is up to the task for most day-to-day requirements. It’s not hard to pack for the week’s shopping, a pair of large suitcases for a weekend break, or a golf club bag. For many professionals and couples, that’s more than enough space. But if your life includes family vacations and visits to the hardware store, or you have big pets, the Touring model is definitely your best and only choice. It’s not just a bigger boot; it’s a fundamental usability shift that makes the i5 a do-it-everything vehicle.

The Touring is the embodiment of practical choice in the i5 family. With the rear seats up, it has a huge 570-litre boot. Fold down the seats, and this becomes a huge, van-like 1,700 litres of flat, usable space. The broad boot opening and low loading lip make loading awkward items a doddle, be it a new piece of flat-pack furniture or the whole family’s luggage for a fortnight’s holiday. And having now sampled this first-hand, I can say that if you’ve got kids, or any kind of active hobbies, the extra room and versatility of the Touring isn’t just a nice-to-have feature; it’s one that you really need, the one that makes day-to-day so much easier.

Step into any i5 and the quality immediately feels incredible. The cabin is clean and modern, and premium materials abound. The clear star of the show is the magnificent Curved Display, crafted from a single piece of glass that houses both the driver’s digital instrument cluster and the main infotainment display. It uses BMW’s latest iDrive system, which is very fast, intuitive and simple to use, and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for connectivity as standard. The standard vegan upholstery (‘Veganza’) is a surprisingly chic and luxurious offering, though traditional leather versions can also be had. For purists, there’s the optional Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, which is a worthwhile upgrade as it turns the silent cabin into a concert hall on wheels.

• Touring Model’s 1,700-Litre Max Boot Space: Unparalleled ability to carry bulky items, ideal for family life and active pursuits.
• Wide, Flat Load Area in Touring: With no hassle, the loading and unloading of heavy items is easy and convenient.
• BMW Curved Display: A beautiful high-tech centrepiece that is simple to use and intuitive.
• iDrive Operating System: The infotainment and vehicle setting access was quick, responsive and fluid.
• High-Quality Interior Materials: The effect is an upscale, sumptuous, and cosy interior environment for everyone riding inside.
• Optional Bowers & Wilkins Sound System: Provides great surround sound for movie fans.

Running Costs and Owning a BMW i5 in the UK

The transition to an electric car leads to substantial differences in running costs, and the BMW i5 shows how an executive car can be surprisingly cost-effective to own. Although the up-front cost is a premium one, the day-to-day costs can be much lower than for a comparable petrol or diesel vehicle. Real savings will vary dramatically based on which model you choose, and, most importantly, how you charge it. These are important considerations for appreciating the value of the i5 over the long term.

The best value for money to run any electric car is to charge it at home, preferably overnight on a cheap off-peak electricity plan. A complete charge for the large battery, which delivers north of 300 miles of range in the eDrive40 variant, can be as low as £20-£25 on the i5. That’s incredible value for money compared to filling up a petrol 5 Series. When it’s time to charge on the go, the i5’s capacity to accept rapid charging of up to 205 kW also becomes a big benefit. In practice, that means you’ll be able to charge from 10% to 80% in about half an hour using a public charger that supports it, plenty of time for a coffee break on a long-distance trip.

Aside from saving on fuel, the BMW i5 has additional financial advantages for drivers of company cars. Due to its lack of tailpipe emissions, the i5 qualifies for a very low Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rate, so it’s an extremely clever business proposition. Insurance is a considerable cost, with the eDrive40 coming in at group 45, and the high-performance M60 is in the highest group 50, but the rest of the costs are minimal. Right now, there’s no Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) or road tax payable, although that will be changing in April 2025. For added confidence, BMW offers a 3-year/unlimited mileage warranty on the vehicle and a separate 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on the high-voltage battery itself to protect it and ensure its long-term health and performance.

• Low Home Charging Costs: A substantial saving on “refuelling” compared to petrol or diesel, in particular on the night rates.
• 205 kW Rapid Charging Capability: Reduces idle time in long-distance driving with a 10-80% charge in around 30 minutes.
• Low Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) Tax: That makes the i5 a very economical choice for company car drivers.
• 8-Year/100,000-Mile Battery Warranty: Rest assured for the long run, and protect your investment in the most critical part of your vehicle.
• Zero VED (until April 2025): A further saving on running costs for the owners during the first years.

Gauging the Competition: How the BMW i5 Measures Up

The high-end EV segment is hotly contested, with a number of established brands that provide strong competition. The BMW i5 is not just here to fight for a place in this segment but to raise the bar, offering traditional luxurious comfort along with modern electric power. In its closest competition, the Mercedes-Benz EQE, Tesla Model S, and Porsche Taycan, the i5’s unique blend of engaging driving dynamics, exceptional build quality and practical design is immediately evident, separating it from the pack.

If one takes the analogy of the i5 and its closest German counterpart, the Mercedes-Benz EQE, one can immediately see how widely different the approaches are. The EQE is all about soft, puffy cushioning, and the ride is calm and quiet. The i5 is a far happier and more involving car to drive in my opinion, still giving you that signature BMW feeling of connection to the road without compromising on comfort. In addition, the i5’s cabin, with the user-friendly iDrive and beautiful Curved Display, feels less reliant on arm-twisting, screen-based controls than the EQE’s Hyperscreen. BMW’s traditional saloon and estate models also have a more practical boot shape than the EQE’s stylised but less roomy design.

BMW i5 vs the long-standing benchmark, the Tesla Model S: the i5 makes a compelling case for itself, in large part by doubling down on luxury and build quality. The Model S may still have the advantage in terms of raw acceleration figures and absolute range, but the i5’s cabin finishes have nothing on it. The quality of the materials, the fit and finish and the general feeling of the occasion is way more upmarket. The i5 also offers a smoother ride and is quieter, so it’s more refined on long jaunts. Meanwhile, the Porsche Taycan offers a sportier alternative. Although the Taycan will always be the more focused handling sports saloon, the i5, especially in M60 trim, narrows the performance gap significantly while providing far greater practicality. Not even the Taycan Cross Turismo estate comes close to the immense cargo volume (and practicality) of the i5 Touring, meaning the BMW emerges as the more adaptable and family-friendly option.

• Superior Driving Dynamics vs. EQE: A more bewitching and visceral driving euphoria with no compromises on luxury comfort.
• Intuitive iDrive System: More convenient and safer to use when driving than the screen-centric layouts of some competitors.
• Exceptional Build Quality vs. Model S: Upgraded and more premium-feeling cabin with better materials and finish.
• Practical Touring Body Style: Boot space and versatility are a whole level up from the Taycan Cross Turismo or EQE.
• Balanced Performance and Luxury: A rare combination that brings excitement to the drive without taking away from daily practicality and comfort.

BMW i5 Review: Choosing the Perfect Executive EV for Your Needs

Having spent a chunk of time with them all, the right BMW i5 for you comes down to a natural balancing act between three things: practicality, performance, and price. Each version is a profoundly capable machine that redefines the electric executive class. The line-up has been carefully crafted to make sure there is something for almost every future owner, whether they be a company car driver looking for efficiency or an enthusiast. This review has brought to light the unique personality of each model, and your decision will come down to which suits your personal and professional life the best.

But the i5 eDrive40 Saloon is by far the most relevant and realistic option for the vast majority of users, especially those company car drivers who want to maximise value and minimise tax hit. BMW i5 eDrive40 Saloon is the no-brainer sweet spot of the range. It’s the ‘just right’ selection, with a fantastic balance between powerful performance, an excellent usable range and uncompromising luxury. Powering it is the quintessential, fun-to-drive rear-wheel drive BMW experience, but with the silent, effortless ride of a luxury EV. It is the ideal all-round executive car for the contemporary age, confidently mastering the whole spectrum from daily commuting to long-distance motorway driving.

If you need more flexibility in life, the BMW i5 Touring is the ultimate choice. It’s an excellent option for families or anyone with an active life who needs a little extra room without giving up style and driving fun. The eDrive40 Touring version is a perfect match for this increased utility, resulting in a highly practical and efficient mix that runs very cost-effectively. Those unwilling to settle can find the ultimate expression of electric performance with the BMW i5 M60 xDrive, available in Saloon or Touring. It’s a monumentally capable and thrilling machine that completely earns its M badge, designed for the enthusiast who craves mind-blowing power and handling but can’t stand the idea of being without luxury and cutting-edge technology.

At the end of the day, every model of the BMW i5 becomes a statement of intent. The collection brings together perfectly the brand’s tradition of driver-focused engineering with a progressive attitude to electric mobility. But books are as far as you can go. You need to drive them to know which fabulous car is right for you.

The perfect match is just a click away. We encourage you to view the entire selection on our website or schedule a test drive today to experience one for yourself.

Want to go for yourself? Schedule a test drive at The.Car today!