The 2024 BMW 5 Series, whether in the internal combustion 520i or electric i5 guise, offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and innovation. The 520i caters to traditional driving enthusiasts seeking a refined experience, while the i5 pioneers BMW’s electric future with exhilarating acceleration and eco-friendly efficiency. As BMW continues to diversify its lineup, the 5 Series stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to driving excellence.
Buckle up as we explore both the internal combustion prowess of the 520i and the electric exhilaration of the i5. From pricing to performance, we’re dissecting every detail to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Elegance
The 2024 BMW 5 Series commands attention with its refined design and bold presence. Available in various metallic and frozen colours, the 520i boasts a sleek exterior with gold accents, LED elements, and a muscular stance. With the M Sport package, the 520i embraces a sporty vibe, featuring 19-inch alloy wheels and distinctive blue brakes.
Interior Luxury
Step inside the 520i, and you’ll be greeted by a luxurious interior that reflects BMW’s commitment to excellence. The wood grain with a lightning bolt pattern, open-pore wood, and LED panel creates a futuristic ambience. The 12.3-inch display, part of the iDrive 8.5 system, brings convenience to your fingertips. Soft-touch surfaces and thoughtful design elements elevate the driving experience, setting a new benchmark in the luxury sedan segment.
Infotainment Delight
The 2024 BMW 5 Series excels in infotainment, featuring a 12.3-inch display and iDrive 8.5. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, the system is intuitive and responsive. Enhanced sound systems, such as the optional Bowers & Wilkins, deliver an immersive audio experience. Safety tech is robust, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a 360-degree camera.
Practicality and Comfort
Connectivity is seamless with wireless phone charging, USB-C ports, and a 12-volt outlet. While the centre console and glove box offer modest storage, the rear accommodates passengers with ample knee room, USB charging, and thoughtful amenities. Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, and a customizable driving position contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
Driving Dynamics
2024 BMW 520i:
Behind the wheel of the 520i, the 2.0L turbocharged engine delivers 153 kW and 330 Nm of torque. The sedan accelerates with finesse, offering a satisfying driving experience. The suspension balances comfort and sportiness, providing a pleasant ride for city commutes and highway cruises. The 520i showcases BMW’s commitment to fuel efficiency, achieving an impressive 7.9 L/100km.
2024 BMW i5 :
Transitioning to the BMW i5, the electric variant introduces a single motor, rear-wheel-drive setup, producing 250 kW and 430 Nm of torque. Despite the increased weight, the BMW i5 demonstrates agility and responsiveness, maintaining BMW’s reputation for dynamic driving experiences. Regenerative braking and adaptive damping contribute to a smooth ride. The i5’s WLTP driving range exceeds 580 km, highlighting its efficiency.
Charging
When it comes to charging, the usable battery capacity of the BMW i5 is just over 81 kilowatt-hours. Users have the convenience of charging with three-phase AC, supporting up to 22 KW—an impressive feature for efficient charging. On the DC charging front, the vehicle boasts a peak charge rate of just over 200 KW, with an average charge rate hovering around 130 KW.
Equipped with a lithium-ion battery, the 2024 BMW i5 offers a WLTP driving range of just over 580 kilometres, making it a reliable option for long-distance journeys. Noteworthy differences between the internal combustion and electric versions include the inclusion of adaptive damping and four-wheel steering in the electric variant. These features contribute to an enhanced driving experience, setting the electric model apart in terms of both sustainability and performance.
Performance Showdown:
In a head-to-head acceleration test, the 520i and i5 showcase their capabilities. The 520i emphasises fuel efficiency with a 0-100 time of 7.97 seconds. Meanwhile, the i5, achieving a remarkable 0-100 time of 5.76 seconds, proves the prowess of electric power. Braking performance emphasizes the impact of weight, with the i5 stopping in a longer distance.
2024 BMW 5 Series Price
The 2024 BMW 5-series has a starting price of $58,895 and may cost up to $74,795 based on the model and extras.
