BMW i5 2024 Review

As the demand for high-end electric executive sedans in Malaysia gradually rises, more and more consumers are seeking models that combine a business-like demeanor with electric technology. The 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport, as BMW’s main pure electric executive sedan, highlights its core selling points with 340PS power, 582km official range, and comprehensive intelligent configurations. In this test drive, we focus on verifying whether its dynamic performance matches its executive positioning, as well as if the actual range and configuration experience meet the daily needs of Malaysian users.

In terms of appearance, the i5 eDrive40 M Sport continues BMW's sporty genes. The front features a closed double kidney grille, paired with the M Sport-specific front bumper. The design of the side air intakes is more aggressive and highly recognizable. The side profile of the car boasts streamlined lines, with a length of 5060mm and a wheelbase of 2995mm, giving it the sleek stance of an executive sedan. The R20-inch alloy wheels further enhance its sporty feel. As for the rear, the LED taillights are treated with a smoked finish, echoing the design of the rear diffuser. The overall style maintains the steadiness of an executive car while exuding the technological feel of an electric vehicle.

Sitting inside, the interior combines luxury and technology. The center console adopts a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument panel in a seamless design. The interface has a high degree of fluency, and the operating logic is clear. In terms of materials, the seats and interior panels are covered with soft leather, complemented by metallic trim, offering a delicate touch. The front seats support electric adjustment and memory functions, providing good backrest and cushion support for long-period seating without discomfort. The rear seating space aligns with the executive-level positioning, with enough legroom for passengers as tall as 190cm to have more than two fists of space. Additionally, it is equipped with independent air conditioning vents and power outlets, providing great practicality. The trunk capacity is 490L and supports a 60:40 split-fold design, making it suitable for storing suitcases or large items.

In terms of dynamic performance, the i5 eDrive40 M Sport performs remarkably. It is equipped with a single electric motor delivering a maximum power of 250kW (340PS) and a maximum torque of 400N·m, adopting a rear-wheel-drive layout. When starting, the power response is swift, and a light press on the accelerator provides a noticeable thrust. The official 0-100km/h acceleration is 6 seconds. In actual experience, overtaking on city roads or gaining speed on highways is effortless. The driving modes include Eco, Comfort, and Sport. In Comfort mode, power delivery is smooth, ideal for daily commuting; in Sport mode, throttle response becomes more sensitive, the steering gains weight, and the driving experience becomes more enjoyable.

As for the chassis, the combination of a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and handling. When crossing common speed bumps or bumpy roads in Malaysia, the suspension effectively absorbs shocks, ensuring that passengers inside do not feel significant impacts. When making high-speed turns, body roll is well-controlled, and the stability is excellent. Noise control is impressive, with almost no wind or road noise audible below 80km/h. Only a faint electric motor sound can be heard, meeting the quietness standards expected of executive vehicles.

For the range and charging part, we conducted tests on mixed road conditions in Malaysia: 60% urban roads and 40% highways, with the air conditioning on at 24°C throughout. The actual range ended up being about 520km, achieving nearly 90% of its claimed range, with an energy consumption of approximately 17.2kWh per 100km, which outperforms many competitors in its class. Regarding fast charging, using a 150kW fast charging station takes about 40 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%, while slow charging takes 8.5 hours, meeting the charging needs for both daily home use and long-distance travel.

In terms of safety features, this i5 eDrive40 M Sport is almost fully equipped: 6 airbags, ACC adaptive cruise control, 360-degree panoramic cameras, lane-keeping assist, and active braking are all standard. The HUD head-up display reduces the need to divert your gaze while driving, enhancing safety.

Overall, the core strengths of the 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport lie in its balanced product capabilities: it offers the luxury and space of an executive-class car, the smoothness and low operational costs of an electric vehicle, and added sporty attributes with the M Sport package. Compared with electric vehicles in the same class, it achieves a higher range attainment rate and has a chassis quality closer to that of traditional fuel-powered executive sedans, making it suitable for users who value the driving and riding experience.

If you're someone who needs a car that serves both business reception and family use, or a young executive seeking luxury and electric technology, this i5 eDrive40 M Sport is a great choice. In Malaysia, it is priced at RM420,100 and comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and an 8-year battery warranty, making its value performance outstanding among high-end electric executive sedans. All in all, this is an all-electric executive sedan that can meet diverse usage scenarios—it delivers BMW's signature driving pleasure along with the practicality of an electric vehicle.