BMW i5 Review

In 2024, Malaysia's executive electric vehicle market is welcoming more segmented competition, with luxury brands launching models that combine performance and practicality. The 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport, as a new option in this segment, both retains BMW's sporty DNA and meets family and business needs through its extended wheelbase and luxurious configurations. In this test drive, we focus on whether its dynamic performance meets expectations, and whether its features and space match its pricing.

From the exterior, the i5 eDrive40 M Sport maintains the sleek proportions of an executive sedan, with a length of 5060mm and a wheelbase of 2995mm, featuring smooth side lines. The M Sport package brings a more aggressive front fascia, with a large double kidney grille finished in high-gloss black and surrounded by sporty accents. The side profile is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels paired with blue brake calipers, enhancing its sporty feel. At the rear, the L-shaped LED taillights feature a smoked design that echoes with the rear diffuser, giving it a highly recognizable appearance. The lighting system comes standard with LED headlights and taillights; the design of the daytime running lights continues BMW's family style, providing clear visual effects when lit.

Inside the car, the interior is predominantly black, complemented by metallic trims and M Sport-specific stitching. The materials heavily feature soft-touch leather wraps, with a fine texture across the dashboard and door panels. The central control layout consists of a 14.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster in a connected dual-screen format. The system supports wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, with impressive operating smoothness. In terms of core features, the standard equipment includes a head-up display, Bowers & Wilkins 18-speaker sound system, electrically adjustable front seats with memory function (available for both driver and passenger), separate rear air conditioning vents, ensuring both practicality and a sense of luxury. The multifunctional steering wheel supports manual adjustment and offers a comfortable grip, with buttons on the left side for controlling cruise control and multimedia functions.

Space performance is key for an executive model. The 2995mm wheelbase ensures ample rear legroom; a passenger with a height of 175cm would have two fist-worth of space between their knees and the back of the front seat. The headroom is also sufficient, avoiding any feeling of confinement. The rear seats support a 60:40 split-folding design, and the trunk offers a capacity of 490L, which can easily accommodate two 28-inch suitcases with room to spare, while folding down the seats expands the storage capacity further. In terms of storage details, the front center armrest compartment is quite spacious, the door pockets can hold two bottles of water, and the rear area features independent cup holders and power outlets to meet passenger needs.

In terms of performance, the i5 eDrive40 M Sport is equipped with a single rear motor, delivering a maximum power of 250kW (340PS) and peak torque of 400N·m, achieving an official 0-100km/h acceleration in 6 seconds. During actual driving, the power response is immediate at startup. Switching to Sport mode enhances the accelerator's sensitivity, offering ample power reserves for mid-range overtaking. Even when accelerating beyond 80km/h, there is still a noticeable thrust. The three driving modes (Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport) are distinctly different; the Eco Pro mode offers smoother power output, suitable for daily commuting, while the Comfort mode balances power and comfort, making it the preferred choice for most circumstances.

The handling and chassis performance align with BMW's tuning style, featuring high steering precision, minimal play in the steering wheel, and clear direction during cornering. The suspension system adopts a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension, with the M Sport package offering sporty suspension tuning. It smooths out most minor bumps during daily driving, although slight vibrations can still be felt when going over speed bumps. During cornering, body roll is well-controlled, and the 2205kg weight does not affect agility, with excellent high-speed stability. The braking system features ventilated disc brakes at the front and rear, with linear braking force output and a solid pedal feel.

In terms of range, the official all-electric range is 582km, with a battery capacity of 81.2kWh and power consumption of 15.9kWh per 100km. This test drive covered approximately 200km, including urban congestion, highway cruising, and suburban roads. The actual power consumption was about 16.5kWh/100km, with an achieved range rate of nearly 95%, which is impressive. Regarding fast charging, the official data indicates a fast charge time of 8.5 hours (likely a mistake; in practice, using a 150kW fast charger, it takes about 40 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%). Slow charging takes significantly longer.

In terms of ride comfort, noise control is well-executed. Wind noise and tire noise are minimal at high speeds, and the electric motor operates very quietly. The seats are highly comfortable, with the front seats providing adequate support to prevent fatigue during long drives. The rear seats are soft, with a moderate backrest angle, making them suitable for long journeys. The regenerative braking system offers three adjustable levels; at the highest level, releasing the accelerator pedal creates a pronounced dragging effect suitable for one-pedal driving, while the lowest level delivers a coasting experience similar to that of a fuel vehicle.

Overall, the 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport's key strength lies in its balanced performance: the sporty dynamic tuning delivers driving pleasure, while the extended wheelbase and luxurious features meet family needs. Its range performance ranks above average in its class. Compared to other electric vehicles in the same segment, it offers a more extensive set of features (like Bowers & Wilkins audio, HUD) and larger space. Priced at RM 420,100, it holds a certain level of competitiveness within the luxury executive EV category.

This car is suitable for two groups of people: first, family users who value driving pleasure, need spaciousness and luxury features, and don't want to compromise on performance; second, consumers who frequently go on business trips, as the rear space and comfort are ideal for hosting passengers. All in all, the i5 eDrive40 M Sport preserves BMW's sporty genes while filling a gap in the executive electric sedan segment, making it a well-rounded model with outstanding performance.