A look at BMW’s newly patented names made it clear once again: there should be a purely electric variant of just about every model. For example, the X1 was already joined by the iX1 and the X3 of the iX3, the i4 and i7 power the 4 and 7 Series respectively, and a version of the 5 Series with an ‘i’ in front of it will soon follow. name. That moment is getting closer, because BMW is now giving an insight into the photo album of the winter tests that the i5 has undergone for the first time.
At least the same driving pleasure
The teaser images show the i5 in all kinds of conditions and environments, but they have one thing in common: the cold. The column of camouflaged i5s started in their hometown of Munich, after which they set course for the far north. Along the way, the test pilots also took in a few Alpine passes, and on location in Arjeplog, Sweden, the dynamics were further tested while drifting on frozen lakes. BMW has now gathered the confidence to promise that the i5 will offer at least the driving pleasure you expect from the brand, in combination with, of course, a more than usable electric powertrain.
Although the i5 is still thickly camouflaged in the images, we can already deduce a number of things in terms of design. For example, in contrast to that of competitor Mercedes EQE, the silhouette remains quite traditional, although that is no surprise knowing that there will also be 5 Series with combustion engines. You will not ignore the i5 for its controversial snout, because unlike the i7, for example, the electric 5 Series seems to stick to more compact kidneys and a single floor of headlights.
Saloon this year, Touring next year
Furthermore, the electric i5 will also be available as a station wagon — or ‘Touring’ in Bavarian — and that is another reason why some Belgians might go for the BMW instead of the Mercedes. The EQE will not be available with more trunk space for the time being, or you should already look at the SUV variant. However, we are not currently seeing the i5 Touring, and it will also come on the market a little later than the sedan. There is a good chance that BMW will unveil the i5 and the regular 5 Series at the same time, as happened with the (i)X1 and the i7/7 Series.
After these winter tests, BMW will probably also take the i5 to warmer places before introducing it to the general public. For example, we can assume that the new 5 Series and its electric brother will be unveiled after the summer. For example, there will be a motor show in Heimat Munich at the beginning of September… Wouldn’t that be a good time?
