BMW i5 M60 xDrive Saloon

Featured in:
January 2025

BMW has long been synonymous with innovative and stylish vehicles, earning a reputation for quality and reliability. One of the most compelling reasons to choose a BMW is its exceptional performance. Whether you’re cruising on the motorway or navigating twisting rural roads, the marque’s sporty handling and potent engines make every drive exciting.

Performance aside, stepping inside a BMW is a luxurious experience that will pamper you with a combination of comfort and advanced technology. The interiors are meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, offering a plush and refined environment. From premium leather upholstery to cutting-edge infotainment systems, BMW cabins provide a first-class experience that will make you feel indulged.

The brand’s design language sets its vehicles apart from much of the competition, too. The distinct kidney grille, sleek lines and dynamic proportions give BMWs a timeless and unmistakable look. Whether it’s the commanding presence of the X5 or the athletic elegance of the 5 Series, BMW’s design heritage is evident across its entire lineup, which brings us nicely to the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Saloon. Like its predecessors, the new 5 Series is made at the BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. The first vehicle produced at the plant was a first-generation 5 Series Saloon in 1973.

The eighth incarnation of the BMW 5 Series Saloon has redefined automotive excellence with digital innovations and all-electric drive capabilities. The flagship model, the i5 M60 xDrive, commands attention with its vigorous performance and eye-catching design features. Every detail emphasises the model’s energetic character, from the front apron with bold black surfaces and large air intakes to the 20-inch M light alloy wheels.

Take a seat in the electric 5 Series Saloon, and you’re immersed in modern functionality and luxurious comfort. The fully digital BMW curved display takes centre stage in the interior redesign, complemented by innovations such as the BMW interaction bar and ‘my modes’ for a personalised driving experience. The attention to detail is also evident in the newly designed seats, which offer increased support and optimal adjustment options.

The i5 M60 xDrive features a shift paddle marked with “Boost” by the left steering wheel spoke. If the paddle is pulled for over 0.8 seconds, a Sport Boost indicator materialises on the information display, and the accelerator pedal triggers maximum acceleration. At the same time, the drive sound changes to that assigned to the Sport mode – a spaceship-like whooshing noise.

The i5 M60 xDrive combines a 601hp electric drive with hallmark M performance. A couple of integrated drive units on the BMW’s front and rear axles comprise the i5’s electric all-wheel drive system. The rear motor makes 340hp, while the front one creates 261hp. The system torque whipped up by both motors is 795Nm or 820Nm when M Sport Boost or M Launch Control is initialised. This allows the BMW i5 M60 to shoot from a standing start to 62mph in a mere 3.8 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 142mph, and the car’s combined power consumption is 20.5 to 18.4kWh per 62 miles.

The high-voltage battery used in the all-electric car is derived from the latest BMW eDrive technology. It has a flat design and is fitted into the underbody of the i5 to save space. And here’s the significant bit you’ve been waiting for – the i5 M60 xDrive has a range of 282-320 miles, making range anxiety a thing of the past.

So, okay, this kind of range means you can drive long distances without fretting about running out of charge. But how’s this possible? Well, the latest version of adaptive recuperation helps to save or recoup energy. The system can use navigation data and information from the i5’s driver assistance systems to adjust how much get-up-and-go is recovered according to traffic levels. You can choose high, medium, or low braking energy recovery in the iDrive menu.

Low recuperation activates the BMW’s coasting function – the i5 rolls along without drive torque when the accelerator pedal is released.

Funnily enough, driving in BMW’s Efficient mode further enhances efficiency. This setting will increase the i5’s electric range by up to 25 per cent. A Max Range mode is also designed for times when a planned charging stop is no longer possible.

Regarding charging, the i5’s combined charging unit enables AC charging up to 22kW on the M60 xDrive. Furthermore, the BMW’s battery can be charged with DC up to 205kW. This swells the charge level from 10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes, give or take. In addition, the i5’s range can be increased by 97 miles in just 10 minutes at a DC fast-charging station when starting with a charge level of 10 per cent. This means you can quickly top up your electrons when you’re on the go.

In conclusion, the i5 M60 xDrive hits the sweet spot when it comes to automotive innovation and luxury. The model sets high standards in digitalisation, design, and sustainability while staying true to the hallmark driving pleasure that defines the BMW brand. Its forward-thinking features and timeless elegance continue the legacy of the iconic BMW 5 Series Saloon.



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