

I5
BMW
I5 Introduction
The BMW i5 is BMW’s all-electric evolution of the iconic 5 Series, matching executive prestige and sporting heritage with next-generation electric performance and digital luxury. The i5 sedan and i5 Touring wagon bring BMW’s signature blend of dynamic handling, high-tech comfort, and roomy practicality—now powered by a silent, emissions-free drivetrain. Positioned above the i4 and alongside the i7 in the Australian range, every i5 delivers a future-proof choice for drivers and families wanting premium mobility with genuine zero-tailpipe emissions.
Under the bonnet, Australian buyers choose between the long-range, rear-wheel drive i5 eDrive40 (250kW/430Nm), or the performance flagship i5 M60 xDrive (442kW/820Nm) in sedan and Touring body styles—both feature a large 84kWh battery and DC fast charging up to 205kW. Expect limousine-like quiet, up to 582km (WLTP) of range, digital convenience via a 14.9-inch BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8.5 infotainment, and comfort features like Merino leather, panoramic roof, four-zone climate, and heated/ventilated seating. Standard safety and driver assistance (five-star ANCAP, adaptive cruise, lane keeping, 360° camera) bring peace of mind for city trips and country tours alike.
Australian reviewers praise the i5’s performance, refined ride, expansive boot (490–570L), and intuitive tech for daily use or luxury commuting. The Touring wagon broadens appeal for active households, with a flat load floor and hands-free tailgate. Pair your i5 with home solar for sustainable, low-cost driving—making the BMW i5 a benchmark for modern, all-electric executive transport.
Available models
I5 Performance & Power
The BMW i5 range offers distinctly sporty electric performance, whether you choose the long-range eDrive40 or the X-factor M60 xDrive. Tom Fraser (Drive) praises the eDrive40: “Acceleration is, naturally, instantaneous from a standstill, but even on the move the eDrive 40 is spritely and energetic for overtakes and sprints up to the speed limit.” With 250kW/430Nm, the single-motor eDrive40 delivers ample thrust, while the dual-motor M60 xDrive rules the grid with 442kW/820Nm—good for 0–100km/h in 3.8 seconds and razor-sharp launches (BMW figures).
Scott Newman (Carsales) claims, “Electric propulsion has made the 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 the best 5 Series ever – from a certain point of view.” Reviewers uniformly compliment throttle response, with Daniel Gardner (Drive) noting, “The i5 has the best throttle mapping and modulation we’ve experienced in an EV.” Both models use adaptive M Suspension for an athletic drive, with rear steering optional on the M60. The i5 absorbs daily commutes but comes alive on winding roads, holding onto classic 5 Series dynamics with a silent twist.
I5 Interior & Design
Step into the BMW i5 and it’s evident the interior is a cut above, combining futuristic luxury and driver-focused details. “It’s a minimalist but high-quality environment,” observes Scott Newman (Carsales). The 14.9-inch seamless curved touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster headline a tech-rich, visually stunning dash, with a light-up accent panel and Bowers & Wilkins hi-fi creating a lounge-like feel (Tom Fraser, Drive). Quality abounds in the Merino leather, carbon-effect inlays, and flagship CraftedClarity glass controls—although some may find it odd that sustainable materials aren’t standard (Tom Fraser, Drive).
Space and comfort are matched by versatility: five seats, large centre console, ambient lighting, heated/ventilated front seats, and i5 Touring’s wagon boot (up to 570L) make family packing easy. Panoramic sunroof, four-zone or dual-zone climate, and soft-touch surfaces ensure passengers stay happy. Entry-level models offer vegan trim elsewhere in the range, but the i5 maximises luxury EV feel for tech-first buyers.
I5 Technology & Safety
Technology leads in the BMW i5, with the brand’s latest iDrive 8.5 combining touchscreen, rotary controller, and voice input for maximum flexibility. Scott Newman (Carsales) highlights the “comprehensive head-up display, augmented reality navigation...overlaid on the camera views.” The 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, remote app functions, and ambient lighting build an immersive, friendly in-cabin environment. Drive reviewers note minor frustration as “BMW has placed its air-conditioning controls behind a menu system,” but praise multiple ways to interact with the system.
Safety is first-class, with adaptive cruise, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, intersection intervention, 360° camera, remote interior camera, and five-star safety as standard. App-enabled remote functions (checking on passengers, climate pre-conditioning) add day-to-day practicality (Salvatore Gerace, Exhaust Notes Australia). The BMW i5 cements itself as the tech-focused EV sedan and wagon benchmark.
I5 Range & Charging
With an 84kWh usable battery, the i5 eDrive40 achieves up to 582km (WLTP) on a single charge, while the performance-driven M60 xDrive posts up to 516km (BMW figures). Scott Newman (Carsales) notes, “The sizeable 84kWh (gross; 81.2kWh net) battery delivers a maximum claimed range of 582km.” In mixed city/highway use, reviewers report 400–520km is achievable, with DC fast charging (up to 205kW) delivering 10–80% top-ups in just 30 minutes—vital for distance drivers or fleets.
Public charging is painless thanks to a 5-year subscription to Chargefox fast chargers for new owners. Home EV chargeres (11kW) offer overnight refills, while regular power points are only practical for emergencies (43 hours for a full charge). If you’re keen to charge with cheaper, green energy, installing solar panels and a dedicated charger pays back quickly for high-kilometre drivers. Planning long road trips? Route planners and live range estimates reduce “EV anxiety” and help tap the i5’s full potential.
I5 & Solar Power
Pairing your BMW i5 with home solar power is a strong strategy to slash operating costs and emissions. Solar day-charging gives most owners a payback in 2–3 years, making daily commutes virtually free after installation. Combining solar panels with a dedicated home charger maximises charge speeds, protects your battery, and helps keep costs below 4–5c/km. For business fleets and green households, it’s the ideal way to enjoy the i5’s silent luxury while minimising your carbon footprint.
Considering a BMW i5 home charger solution or solar upgrade? Use our network to find a local professional installer for tailored, future-proof advice.
FAQ - BMW I5
What is the price of the BMW i5 in Australia?
The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport sedan starts from around $155,900 drive-away, while the flagship i5 M60 xDrive models are priced upwards of $219,900. “BMW i5 price Australia,” “i5 M60 price,” and “Touring price” are top buyer queries. Factory options like Bowers & Wilkins sound, panoramic roof, and premium paints can impact final on-road costs. Incentives and drive-away pricing may vary by state and dealer.
How much does the BMW i5 cost to run compared to a petrol 5 Series?
Charging with home solar can drop BMW i5 running costs well below equivalent petrol or diesel models. “BMW i5 cost,” “running cost,” and “fuel savings” are trending ownership questions. Maintenance expenses are lower thanks to fewer moving parts, and periodic service is included for five years. Journeys relying mostly on home charging can bring costs close to 3–4 cents per kilometre.
Is the BMW i5 fully electric, or is there a hybrid version available?
The BMW i5 is a fully electric vehicle with no petrol or plug-in hybrid versions sold in Australia. “BMW i5 electric,” “is BMW i5 fully electric,” and “all electric” are common research terms. Power comes from a large 84kWh battery driving either the eDrive40’s rear wheels or the M60 xDrive’s all-wheel system. Petrol mild-hybrids remain in the 5 Series but not in the i5 range.
What’s the range of the BMW i5, and how does it compare between eDrive40 and M60?
Officially, the i5 eDrive40 achieves up to 582km WLTP range, while the sportier M60 xDrive offers up to 516km per charge. “BMW i5 range,” “i5 M60 range km,” and “real world range” are core EV queries. In typical mixed city/highway use, reviewers report 450–520km is readily achievable. Air-con use, speed, and driving style can slightly reduce these figures.
How quickly does the BMW i5 charge on public fast chargers and at home?
DC fast charging at up to 205kW allows 10–80% top-ups in around 30 minutes, perfect for long trips or fleet drivers. “BMW i5 charging,” “charging speed,” and “fast charging” are frequent research topics. At home, a standard 11kW EV charger fully charges an i5 overnight. Using a regular 10A power point is possible but can take up to 43 hours for a full battery.
What features and design details make the BMW i5 interior special?
The i5’s cabin stands out with high-grade Merino leather, modern curved touchscreen, and ambient lighting extending across the dash. “BMW i5 interior,” “ambient lighting,” and “Bowers & Wilkins” are trending tech/luxury search terms. Touring and sedan both offer heated and ventilated seats, digital instrumentation, and top-tier materials like crystal-look controls. Reviewers highlight the “minimalist but high-quality environment” and futuristic details.
Does the BMW i5 Touring wagon offer the same luxury and features as the sedan?
Yes, both the sedan and the Touring wagon share high-spec technology, adaptive M suspension, and premium materials. “BMW i5 Touring,” “wagon features,” and “Touring Australia” interest family and lifestyle buyers. Touring also features boot space up to 570L for active Sydney or Melbourne life. Hands-free tailgate and flat-fold load bay add practicality for day-to-day use.
How does the i5 eDrive40 compare to the M60 xDrive in terms of performance?
The eDrive40 offers 250kW/430Nm, rear-wheel drive, and 0–100 km/h in 6 seconds, ideal for long-range comfort. The M60 xDrive boosts this to 442kW/820Nm, AWD, and a 3.8s sprint—placing it among the fastest executive EVs in Australia. “BMW i5 M60,” “eDrive40 vs M60,” and “M60 performance” are high-value queries. Both retain classic BMW drive feel, with the M60 prioritising acceleration and agility.
How do you charge the BMW i5 at home, and can solar be used?
Many buyers install a home EV charger (11kW) for convenient, fast overnight charging. “How to charge BMW i5,” “BMW i5 charging,” and “solar power BMW i5” are popular set-up searches. Charging with [solar](https://topproperty.eco/solar-power) lets you drive for cents a kilometre and cuts emissions dramatically. Our [installer directory](https://topproperty.eco/solar-installers) helps you find solar/charger pros for smart EV home charging.
Can the BMW i5 use Tesla Superchargers or other third-party networks?
The i5 uses the CCS2 charging standard, making it compatible with most public fast charge networks in Australia. “Can BMW i5 use Tesla Supercharger,” “i5 charging compatibility,” and “public charging” are timely research terms. Some Tesla Superchargers are open to non-Teslas and a growing network is accessible to all CCS2-equipped EVs. Always check app access and plug types before journeying.
What is the BMW i5 Touring’s boot space and practicality like?
The i5 Touring wagon offers a large 570-litre boot (with seats up) and an easy-flat load floor. “BMW i5 Touring boot space,” “wagon luggage,” and “boot liner” are strong family intent keywords. Split folding rear seats suit prams, sports kit, or pets. Electric tailgate, sliding cover, and underfloor storage boost practicality for busy lives.
How does the BMW i5 compare to the Tesla Model S, EQE, and Polestar 4?
BMW i5 stands out for drive feel, luxury tech, and the rare wagon option (“BMW i5 vs Tesla Model S,” “vs EQE,” and “vs Polestar 4” drive comparison traffic). Reviewers find the i5 as lively as Tesla and more practical than Polestar, with a familiar BMW badge and better service network. Both Model S and EQE rival the BMW on tech and range, but the Touring offers unique estate flexibility. The i5’s strong boot space and rear-drive balance make it a well-rounded competitor.
What safety features and ANCAP rating does the BMW i5 have in Australia?
All BMW i5 models get adaptive cruise, lane-keep, AEB, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system as standard. “BMW i5 safety,” “ANCAP,” and “driver assistance” are high-intent safety queries. Australian/Euro NCAP safety ratings place the current 5 Series platform at five stars. Enhanced impact protection and proactive collision alerts are built-in.
What colours and trims are available for the BMW i5?
Buyers can choose from classic BMW colours like Black Sapphire, Brooklyn Grey, Cape York Green, and new blue or white tones. “BMW i5 colour,” “configurator,” and “M Sport” are buyer customisation queries. M60 trims boast unique wheels and aesthetics. Luxury interior trim options—Merino leather, sporty contrasts, and ambient lighting—let you personalise your i5.
Is the BMW i5 suitable for families or business buyers?
With seating for five and luxury comfort, the i5 fits both family and executive roles. “BMW i5 for sale,” “wagon for families,” and “four-zone climate” rank high for lifestyle shoppers. The Touring specifically caters to families needing space, while the sedan remains executive and city-friendly. Rear seat comfort, child seat anchors, and a quiet cabin suit all buyers.
How does warranty, servicing, and aftersales work on the BMW i5?
Every i5 comes with a 5-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, eight years/160,000km battery warranty, and 5 years’ BMW Service Inclusive scheduled maintenance. “BMW i5 warranty,” “battery cover,” and “servicing cost” are hot buyer queries. Driveaway price includes standard roadside assist and BMW ConnectedDrive features. BMW’s dealer network provides recall, service, and software support nationwide.
What subscription or app-based features are included with BMW i5?
BMW i5 includes a 5-year Chargefox public fast-charging subscription, app-enabled climate pre-conditioning, and in-car WiFi hotspots on higher grades. “BMW i5 app,” “remote climate,” and “interior camera” are trending value-add searches. The iDrive 8.5 system provides over-the-air updates, route planning, and live charging integration. I5 M60 integrates performance data and extra custom display modes.
When is the BMW i5 Touring coming to Australia and who is it for?
The BMW i5 Touring wagon arrives in late 2024, with models matching sedan specs and price points. “BMW i5 Touring Australia,” “Touring release date,” and “wagon for sale” are rising among active buyers. The Touring is ideal for families, pet owners, or business drivers needing premium space and versatility. All versions get the same battery, safety, and tech features.
Can I get genuine accessories for the BMW i5 in Australia?
Yes, BMW and dealers offer accessories such as all-weather mats, wheel upgrades, boot liners, dashcams, and roof racks. “BMW i5 accessories,” “boot liner,” and “Touring extras” are options often added at sale. Accessories keep the i5 protected and suit Australian conditions and adventure. Fitting genuine accessories preserves warranty and resale.
Does the BMW i5 qualify for Australian electric vehicle rebates or discounts?
Eligibility depends on government policies, which vary by state and year. “BMW i5 rebate,” “EV grants,” and “stamp duty savings” are vital savings queries. Some states offer purchase rebates and stamp duty/registration discounts on i5 models up to a certain price. Check the BMW Australia website or your state transport authority for the latest details.
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*Disclaimer: This page includes information, descriptions, and images that may have been created or enhanced with the assistance artificial intelligence, powered by our proprietary Ray-i (AI) technology system. While we do our best to ensure accuracy, specifications and details can vary between models, regions, and over time as manufacturers make updates. Images are for illustrative purposes, and the content is provided for general reference. For the most up-to-date specifications or features, we recommend checking directly with the manufacturer or your local dealer.




