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Photographs by Siddharth Dadhe

The i5 is the latest entrant to BMW’s electric sedan portfolio, and with 601 bhp on tap, it sits firmly in high–performance territory. The newest addition to BMW’s 5 Series lineup claims that it blends performance, traditional luxury and state–of–the–art electric power, so it was incumbent upon us to verify this. Starting at Rs. 1.20 crore in India, the i5 makes a statement with its forward–thinking design and delivers some jaw–dropping performance.

The car we got from BMW was an i5 M60 xDrive in a striking all–black spec, exuding a menacing presence reminiscent of Darth Vader’s own ride. The colour emphasises the car’s athletic stance and hides its bulk well, giving it an elegant, streamlined appearance.

The signature kidney grilles take a modern twist, framed by glowing LED surrounds that light up with a futuristic sequence when the car is unlocked. This eye–catching feature sets the i5 apart as an electric model, signifying its advanced tech without being over–the–top. The profile retains a classic sedan silhouette with a refined, three–box shape, while the rear sports sleek, minimalist tail lamps that enhance the car’s futuristic aesthetic. The 20–inch high–gloss black M alloy wheels complement the aggressive look, although a larger size would better match its muscular frame. M–specific elements, such as flared side skirts, diffusers, and high–gloss inserts, add a sporty touch to the M60 xDrive trim.

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BMW has opted for traditional door handles, a subtle nod to classic design amidst the influx of pop–out mechanisms in modern EVs. Inside, the cabin showcases a 14.9–inch curved infotainment display paired with a 12.3–inch digital instrument cluster, seamlessly integrated for a cohesive driver experience. The displays run on BMW’s latest iDrive OS 8.5, offering intuitive navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Driver aids, including partially autonomous parking, adaptive cruise control, and blind–spot monitoring, are standard.

Luxury is evident in every corner of the cabin, from carbon–fibre trims to finely crafted leather seating. The M–specific leather–wrapped steering wheel and ventilated, memory–enabled seats elevate the comfort level. An innovative addition is the AirConsole in–car gaming system, which adds entertainment value during charging stops. For audiophiles, the 18–speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system offers a rich, immersive audio experience.

The cabin has a sporty yet refined luxury feel for its occupants. The spacious cabin is quiet, with effective noise insulation that keeps road and wind noise at bay. This tranquillity enhances the premium feel and makes long drives more enjoyable. The seats offer ample support and comfort, maintaining their ergonomic shape even after hours of driving. A panoramic glass roof adds to the sense of space and openness, making the cabin feel airy and inviting. The inclusion of ventilated seats ensures comfort in warmer weather, while multi-zone climate control allows all passengers to tailor their environment.

BMW’s design philosophy focuses on driver–centric layouts, and the i5 is no exception. The screens are angled toward the driver, ensuring all essential information is within easy reach. Unlike many of its competitors, BMW retains physical buttons for some key functions, balancing modern tech with usability. The interior space benefits from its electric platform. A flat floor, courtesy of the battery placement, adds to the spacious feel and provides ample legroom for all passengers. Headroom is generous, ensuring comfort even for taller occupants. The rear seats feature built–in USB–C ports, allowing passengers to charge their devices without hassle. Boot space is sufficient for most daily needs, accommodating groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Folding down the rear seats further expands cargo capacity, making the i5 versatile for various uses.

Beneath the car’s floor lies an 81.2 kWh battery pack paired with a dual–motor setup, producing a jaw–dropping 601 bhp and 81.06 kgm of torque. This power propels the car from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.8 seconds and gets you to a top speed of 230 kph. The performance figures, typically reserved for sports cars, make the i5 an exciting proposition in the luxury EV sedan market. Acceleration is instantaneous, as expected from an electric vehicle, but this EV takes it up a notch. The sport mode unlocks its full potential, pressing you back into your seat as the car surges forward. To enhance this experience, BMW enlisted composer Hans Zimmer to create a custom soundtrack, adding a layer of theatricality that complements its futuristic aura; you feel like you’re entering a ‘Time Warp’ mode.

The handling is impressive for a vehicle of its size and weight. The low centre of gravity, aided by the underfloor battery pack, ensures stability and minimal body roll during cornering. The car feels planted and responsive, making twisty roads a pleasure. The suspension smooths out rough patches, delivering a comfortable ride that rivals traditional luxury sedans. However, the car’s weight — largely due to its battery pack — does become noticeable during hard braking. While regenerative braking helps recover some energy, it can’t entirely mask the heft. Despite this, the overall handling remains poised and confidence–inspiring.

This EV boasts a claimed range of 516 km on a full charge, making it suitable for both city commutes and longer journeys. The vehicle supports fast charging, allowing for quick top–ups that improve its practicality for road trips. Its 603 bhp, crisp handling, and innovative tech make this car a standout in its segment; the Porsche Taycan and Audi e–tron GT cater to a more performance–focused clientele, emphasising sporty dynamics over pure luxury.

For those who want a high–performance electric car that doesn’t compromise on luxury or practicality, the i5 makes an appealing case. While the price tag of ` 1.20 crore positions it as a premium offering, it’s a worthy investment for those looking to combine sustainability with the thrill of driving. BMW’s commitment to blending tradition with modern innovation is evident in every aspect of the i5, from its driver–focused cockpit to its audacious performance figures. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive proves that eco–conscious driving doesn’t have to come at the expense of power, luxury, or excitement. It’s a testament to BMW’s ability to adapt and lead in an era where electric power is no longer the future but the present.