The sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring has finally been unveiled. For the first time, an electric version called the i5 is introduced, providing a luxurious electric wagon choice for consumers seeking elegance.
The new vehicle is larger and more spacious than before, with increased length and wheelbase, making it the most spacious in its class, surpassing the new Mercedes E-Class wagon. The front end shares design elements with the four-door sedan, while the side and rear designs differ, with an extended roof spoiler adding a sporty touch to the rear window.
Standard wheel sizes are 18 and 19 inches, but customers can also choose 21-inch alloy wheels. The car is available in three paint colors from the BMW individual program and will offer a range of design packages (such as the M Sport Package).
In terms of practicality, the car performs well with a larger trunk opening than before. With a low loading threshold, it is now easier to load heavy items into the back. Although the rear space is ample, it still falls slightly short of the Mercedes E-Class wagon.
The rear seats come standard with a 40:20:40 split-folding backrest and an electrically operated tailgate. Hidden storage compartments under the loading floor can conceal valuables or store charging cables for hybrid and electric models.
The vehicle features standard upholstery made from plant-based materials, with leather available as an option. Other options include an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system and a panoramic glass roof.
For safety, customers can choose the Driving Assistant Professional package, which includes steering and lane control assistance. The vehicle can be driven automatically in certain situations at speeds over 100 km/h. Standard safety features include a rear-view camera, parking assistant, and trailer assistant.
The latest BMW Operating System 8.5 is available with QuickSelect functionality. The infotainment system includes all expected features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with updates available through the Connected Package Professional allowing passengers to stream YouTube videos and similar content. In-car gaming is also possible thanks to the AirConsole platform.
The i5 Touring will be available in eDrive40 and M60 xDrive variants at launch. The first version is powered by a rear-mounted electric motor producing 335 horsepower, allowing for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 6.1 seconds.
The M60 is significantly faster, generating 593 horsepower and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds with all-wheel drive and dual motors. At launch, a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel 520d with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology will also be introduced, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission producing 195 horsepower. A six-cylinder diesel engine will follow later, along with two hybrid versions.
With near-perfect weight distribution of 50:50, lightweight materials, and an improved suspension system, BMW claims that the vehicle should be more sporty than its predecessor without sacrificing comfort. Electric and PHEV versions will feature an air suspension system for the rear axle and leveling.
For sporty driving, a sports M suspension, adaptive chassis, and M sports brakes are available. These features and many other performance enhancements are standard on the M60 xDrive. The higher-spec i5 Touring can also be equipped with the Adaptive M Chassis Professional.
