BMW i5 (G60) is the 4th and latest sedan to get a full-electric model after the early i8 (roadster), i4 and then i7. As the i series (BMW sub-brand for their EV) model name suggests, the i5 is the electric equivalent of the traditional internal combustion engine-powered 5 series. As expected, when both the i and ICE variants share the same chassis, it meant that i model will not have a frunk (front trunk).
While it is an i model, BMW decided that it will not ditch its iconic kidney grilles. So the i5 sports a faux kidney grille, just like the iX. I just hope the edges of the kidney grille will light up in like that of the i7, which tend to be a menacing and somewhat glaring at night. I guess such gimmicks are reserved only for the high-end models.
Being the latest model, it comes with the latest tech and gadgets. The infotainment is a step up from the latest iDrive 8 system. Does it really step up to the competition from Tesla?
The interior cabin of the i5 screams luxury at its epitome. Comparing it the previous generation 5-series or even 7-series, the i5 definitely improved leap-and-bound. Sitting into the cockpit, you are immediately transported into a serene environment where all your senses are treated to a future display of light and sound. However luxurious the i5 feels, there is definitely still a distinction between the i5 and the new 7-series. Let's not forget that i5 and 5-series are still meant for the working-class white-collars.
Check out the ambient light trims lining the dashboard and extending to the door panels. The trims have a 3-dimensional texture on the inside and illuminates in an blends of colors. Well done BMW! This is some next level fanciness!
"My Modes" on the BMW will configure the display and color theme of the ambient lighting to indulge all your senses.
Plenty of apps, but no games 🎮😞
Despite having a plethora apps, they still shy in comparison to Tesla, which can do games, car-aoke, video-streaming across popular platforms. Will those apps really be useful and entertaining? That is something that need more time to explore.
BMW retained plenty of shortcut levers, commander dial, buttons both tactile and touch.
2 wireless charging mats that can accommodate max-sized phones. No more reusing outdated components in inventory to build the centre console.
Look at the fancy details of build into the door panel.
A HUMP in an EV! That is for reusing the same platform as the ICE variant. That transmission tunnel meant the passenger sitting in the middle will not enjoy the ride. Rear passenger legroom is also as expected of a 5-series, unlike my current Bimmer which is much more spacious (I guess I can't do away with the 7-series base platform). There are also no rear passenger A/C controls and no vents on the B-pillars, once again, making me appreciate my ride.
These rims are fancy. Why would anyone still want to swap them for 3rd party forged rims?
The standard 5-series looks exactly the same, but somewhat don't scream fancy.
A/C vents are cleverly hidden in the dashboard, similar to that in the Tesla. However, instead of swiping on the touchscreen to control the spray of the air flow, BMW incorporated little longitudinal thumb wheels to give a direct physical control. Thank Lord for that!
The new 5-series and i5.
Will it be your next ride?
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