Used BMW i5 cars

Bringing electric power to the popular 5 Series, the BMW i5 is a contemporary and well-equipped option that holds plenty of appeal for business users and families in search of luxury. Boasting the driving dynamics of the smaller 3 Series and the advanced technology of the larger 7 Series, it strikes a balance between performance and comfort. Plus, with a striking exterior that features a highly sculpted front end and dramatically sweeping roofline, it makes a strong statement on urban roads.

Released in 2023 as part of the eighth generation 5 Series, the i5 sits alongside mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options in the range. Facing competition from the Mercedes-Benz EQE, Tesla Model S and Audi A6 e-tron, it stands out for its practicality. Not only is there a generous boot, but it can also charge in just 30 minutes thanks to a 205kW peak speed.

There are three variants of the BMW i5 to choose from: the entry-level eDrive40 M Sport, the mid-range eDrive40 M Sport Pro and the top-spec M60 xDrive. All feature a range of premium features, from sports seats and air conditioning with pre-heating to a Harmon Kardon audio system and a parking assistant.

BMW i5 updates and facelifts

The first generation i5 launched in October 2023 . The saloon arrived first, with the Touring estate following in the spring of 2024 offering even more space. With its progressive feel and impressive driving range, it represents BMW’s commitment to an electric future.

Practicality and style of the car

Larger than previous 5 Series models, the i5 stands at just over five metres long. It’s also wider and taller than its predecessors, with 20mm added to the wheelbase. As such, passengers are comfortably accommodated and there’s plenty of room for luggage. All-electric models typically have less boot space than vehicles with a combustion engine due to the placement of the battery. That said, the BMW i5 only loses 30 litres compared to its petrol counterpart, offering an impressive 490-litre capacity. That’s comfortably ahead of the Mercedes-Benz EQE, which provides 430 litres.

The BMW i5 is also a capable towing car. The eDrive40 can pull a maximum braked capacity of 1,500kg – enough for a small to mid-size caravan or loaded trailer. The M60 xDrive can haul a maximum braked weight of 2,000kg. This is more than both the Mercedes-Benz EQE and Tesla Model S, which offer towing capacities of up to 1,800kg and 1,600kg respectively.

Running costs

As an all-electric car, the BMW i5 is exempt from road tax until 1 April 2025. It has a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 2%, making it attractive to business users.

How a used BMW i5 drives

There are two powertrain options available with the BMW i5: the eDrive40 and M60 xDrive. The eDrive40 has a rear-wheel-drive setup and a single electric motor in the rear axle. This has an output of 335bhp and 400Nm of torque, which can be boosted to 430Nm by pulling the steering wheel paddle. Getting from 0-62mph takes six seconds, and you’ll reach an electronically limited top speed of 120mph.

The M60 xDrive keeps the same rear-mounted motor but adds a 257bhp motor to the front axle. This delivers a total output of 593bhp and up to a staggering 820Nm of torque. Again, pulling the steering wheel paddle creates a boost that enables you to reach 62mph from a standstill in just 3.8 seconds. The top speed is 142mph. As with all pure electric vehicles, the BMW i5 has one-speed automatic transmission.

Both options are fitted with an 81.2kWh battery, which provides up to 356 miles of range in the eDrive40 variant and up to 320 miles in the M60 xDrive. With a peak charging speed of 205kW too, a 10–80% top-up can be achieved in as little as 30 minutes. The BMW Plug & Charge technology also makes charging simpler by enabling you to pull up to a compatible DC rapid charger and get started – without the hassle of apps and payment cards.

Features you can expect in a BMW i5

Interior

Step inside the BMW i5 and you’re immediately enveloped in luxury. The materials – such as the Veganza leather alternative upholstery on selected trims – are exquisite and the finishes meticulous. Ambient lighting enables you to set the mood for your journey, and the sleek, minimalist feel of the cockpit adds to the sense of contemporary comfort and functionality. The driver and front passenger have ample room to stretch out, and with an electrically adjustable driver’s seat that includes lumbar support, it’s easy to stay comfy even on the longest trips. Head and legroom are plentiful for rear passengers too, with three able to sit abreast.

There’s generous storage in the cabin, with large door bins that can accommodate drinks bottles, and a well-sized glovebox with felt lining. A cubby beneath the driver’s armrest opens on both the driver and passenger sides, and it has a 12-volt socket inside. Two USB-C ports can be found between the front seats and a wireless charging pad comes as standard.

Technology

One of the first things you’ll notice in the BMW i5’s cockpit is the wide display, which incorporates two screens for data and entertainment. The 12.3-inch Information Display delivers all the essential driving data, including speed and charge level, supplemented by sharp, colourful graphics. The Control Display measures 14.9 inches and provides access to the BMW Operating System 8.5. Select a radio station, input your destination or make calls using the touchscreen or the iDrive rotary controller, both of which are easy to use.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, as does sat nav with augmented reality. When the car is stationary you can even watch YouTube or play video games if you select a data plan. Audio on eDrive 40 models is delivered via the Harmon Kardon sound system, or, on M60 xDrive variants, through a Bowers & Wilkins system.

Additional technology includes parking and reverse assistants, which make manoeuvres easier and safer. Opting for the M60 xDrive also brings memory seats, which will readjust to your perfect driving position at the touch of a button after someone else has taken the wheel.

Safety

The BMW i5 is replete with advanced safety features, ensuring occupants and pedestrians alike remain protected. The advanced collision warning system has improved detection abilities compared to previous 5 Series models, being better able to spot pedestrians, cyclists and other traffic when you pull out of a junction. There’s also an active lane return function, which steers you out of the path of oncoming traffic. The outer rear seats feature ISOFIX mounting points, meaning child seats can be safely anchored.

Search our stock of used BMW i5 cars for sale.