The highly anticipated BMW i5 Touring has finally arrived, electrifying the estate car segment with its blend of practicality, performance, and cutting-edge technology. As the electric sibling to the acclaimed i5 sedan, the Touring boasts a spacious cargo area, versatile interior, and dynamic driving experience, targeting families and adventure seekers seeking a sustainable and stylish solution.
Design that Blends Sportiness and Functionality:
The i5 Touring inherits the sleek and dynamic lines of its sedan counterpart, featuring a bold kidney grille, sharp LED headlights, and a sloping roofline. However, its unique estate silhouette adds a touch of practicality with a generous rear cargo area accessible through a wide tailgate. The aerodynamically optimized design ensures both style and efficiency, while available 20-inch alloy wheels further enhance its sporty stance.
Step Inside a Tech-Infused Oasis:
The i5 Touring’s cabin blends luxury with cutting-edge technology. Passengers are greeted by a spacious and airy environment crafted with premium materials and adorned with ambient lighting. The driver-centric cockpit features a curved display housing the BMW Operating System 8, offering intuitive control over navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a Harman Kardon sound system, while higher trims offer options like ventilated seats, a head-up display, and massaging seats.
Electrifying Performance, Tailored to Your Needs:
The i5 Touring boasts a choice of two electric powertrains, offering varying levels of performance and range. The eDrive40 variant features a single electric motor powering the rear wheels, generating 335 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. This translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 5.7 seconds and an estimated range of up to 480 kilometers (WLTP).
For those seeking even more exhilaration, the M50 variant adopts a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive, churning out a formidable 536 horsepower and a staggering 770 Nm of torque. This powerhouse rockets from 0-100 km/h in a mere 4.7 seconds and boasts an impressive range of up to 438 kilometers (WLTP).
Both models utilize a 111.5 kWh battery pack, supporting DC fast charging that replenishes 80% of the battery’s capacity in approximately 35 minutes. Additionally, an innovative brake energy recuperation system further enhances efficiency.
New BMW i5 Touring Rivals and Price Comparisons:
In the European market, the i5 Touring faces stiff competition from established players like the Mercedes-EQE Estate and the Audi e-tron Sportback. Here’s a quick price comparison (starting prices):
- Europe:
- BMW i5 Touring eDrive40: €57,000
- Mercedes-EQE Estate 350+: €70,625
- Audi e-tron Sportback 55: €69,000
- United Kingdom:
- BMW i5 Touring eDrive40: £54,150
- Mercedes-EQE Estate 350+: £76,465
- Audi e-tron Sportback 55: £71,800
- United States:
- BMW i5 Touring eDrive40: $56,900 (estimated)
- Mercedes-EQE Estate 350+: $79,500 (estimated)
- Audi e-tron Sportback 55: $76,500 (estimated)
- India (Electric vehicle imports attract high customs duties, making a direct comparison challenging):
- BMW i5 Touring eDrive40: Price not yet announced, but expect a significant premium over European and US prices.
Beyond the Numbers: Practicality and Family-Friendly Features:
The i5 Touring isn’t just about performance and technology; it prioritizes practicality. The spacious cargo area offers up to 540 liters of luggage space with the seats up and a cavernous 1700 liters with the seats folded flat. Additionally, features like a hands-free tailgate, luggage compartment dividers, and a roof rack cater to the needs of active families and outdoor enthusiasts.
BMW hasn’t skimped on safety either. The i5 Touring comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features ensure a safe and secure driving experience for the entire family.
The Verdict: A Compelling Electrified Estate:
The BMW i5 Touring is a compelling addition to the electric estate segment. It offers a unique blend of practicality, performance, and a compelling addition to the electric estate segment. It offers a unique blend of practicality, performance, and technology, catering to families and adventure seekers seeking a sustainable and stylish solution. While rivals offer comparable performance and features, the i5 Touring sets itself apart with its dynamic driving experience, spacious cargo area, and luxurious interior.
Things to Consider:
- Availability: Initial availability might be limited in some regions, and waiting times for specific configurations may occur.
- Charging Infrastructure: Ensure access to convenient charging options, especially if considering lengthy journeys.
- Tax Incentives: Research available government incentives and subsidies for electric vehicle purchases in your region.
- Long-Term Costs: Factor in battery degradation, maintenance costs, and potential resale value compared to gasoline-powered counterparts.
Final Thoughts:
The BMW i5 Touring represents a significant step forward in the electric estate segment. With its blend of practicality, performance, and technology, it caters to a growing demand for sustainable and exhilarating family transportation. By offering multiple powertrain options and a spacious cargo area, the i5 Touring adapts to diverse needs and lifestyles.
While its price tag might be higher than some gasoline-powered competitors, the i5 Touring presents a tempting proposition for those seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and environmental responsibility. Whether you’re an eco-conscious driver, a passionate adventurer, or a growing family in need of a versatile estate, the BMW i5 Touring deserves a closer look.
