BMW is enhancing its 5 Series model line-up in the U.S. by introducing a new plug-in hybrid variant and i5 trim for 2024. Furthermore, BMW will be equipping some existing U.S. models with Level 2 driver assistance capability.
In the U.S., there are currently two variants of the BMW i5 available for order. The rear-wheel-drive i5 eDrive40 boasts 335 horsepower and starts at $66,800 (excluding delivery fees), while the i5 M60 offers an impressive 593 hp with an MSRP of $84,100.
The upcoming xDrive40 will fill the gap between the two trims mentioned above. It will feature dual-motor all-wheel drive, generating a total system output of 389 hp and 435 pound-foot of torque. The i5 xDrive40 is projected to accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds, faster than the RWD model but slower than the impressive M60.
This impressive performance is made possible by an 84.3 kWh battery, delivering an estimated range of 295 miles on the eDrive40 and 256 miles on the M60. The range of the xDrive40 is expected to fall between these two figures.
The i5 supports 11-kilowatt AC charging and up to 205 kW of DC fast charging, allowing for a 10-80% state of charge in less than 30 minutes. Additionally, BMW is adopting Tesla’s NACS connector, providing more charging options for i5 owners in 2025.
BMW has also confirmed the introduction of the 550e xDrive plug-in hybrid in the U.S. powered by a 3.0-liter in-line six-cylinder engine mated to a 197-hp electric motor resulting in a combined output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. It boasts an all-electric range of up to 55 miles on the European WLTP cycle.
Furthermore, BMW will be adding Highway Assistant to its $2,500 Driving Assistance Professional Package, allowing hands-free driving up to 85 mph, and an active lane change with eye activation feature. This will be available for certain models produced from March 2024 onwards, including the i5.
Production of the 2025 BMW i5 xDrive40 will commence in March 2024 and will be priced at $71,095 in the U.S., including delivery and handling fees. The production of the 550e PHEV will begin in July 2024, with pricing and details to be announced later.