The New BMW i5 Touring

The BMW i5 Touring, officially named the i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro Touring, is a significant addition to BMW’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup. It represents the brand's first fully electric estate car, bringing a new dimension to their popular 5-Series. Much like the i7 for the 7-Series, the i5 Touring offers a battery-electric alternative to the standard internal combustion engine (ICE) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models. This approach allows BMW to cater to diverse customer preferences without losing the core identity of its vehicles.

Classic Estate Design with Modern Features

The i5 Touring is designed with practicality and style in mind, combining the traditional estate silhouette with modern electric vehicle styling elements. Its long roofline provides the spaciousness estates are known for, while subtle tweaks, such as the illuminated kidney grille, set it apart as an EV.

The grille, while eye-catching, has divided opinions. It reflects BMW's current design direction but may not appeal to everyone. Beyond this, the overall design remains cohesive, retaining the timeless elegance associated with the 5-Series estate models.

Driving Experience and Performance

One of the i5 Touring’s strengths is its driving dynamics, which align with BMW's reputation for delivering cars that are enjoyable to drive. The i5 eDrive40 Touring features a well-balanced chassis that mitigates the weight of its electric components. This results in precise handling and a comfortable ride, making it suitable for long journeys or daily commuting.

The car offers a range of driving modes, including ‘Sport’, which adjusts the responsiveness of the accelerator and introduces a synthetic engine noise. While this feature may feel unnecessary to some, it adds a layer of personalisation to the driving experience. For those requiring additional power, BMW also offers the i5 M60 xDrive Touring, a higher-performance variant with more aggressive acceleration capabilities.

The claimed range of the i5 Touring is slightly over 320 miles, which positions it competitively within its segment. However, real-world driving conditions, particularly those involving frequent use of energy-intensive features, are likely to reduce this figure. Still, for most users, the range will be sufficient for everyday needs and longer trips with appropriate charging stops.

Interior Features and Technology

The interior of the i5 Touring reflects BMW’s commitment to quality and innovation. The cabin features a combination of physical controls and digital interfaces, striking a balance between functionality and modernity. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the inclusion of light bars throughout the interior provides an ambient atmosphere that adjusts with the driving mode.

Practical touches, such as USB ports for rear passengers and well-placed storage compartments, enhance usability. The spacious boot, a hallmark of estate cars, makes the i5 Touring a versatile choice for families or those requiring ample luggage space.

BMW has also integrated thoughtful details, such as courtesy lights that illuminate the curb rather than projecting a logo onto the pavement. This subtle feature prioritises practicality over visual appeal, reflecting the car's utilitarian focus.

Electrification Without Compromise

The BMW i5 Touring demonstrates that transitioning to electric power doesn’t require sacrificing the qualities that define a 5-Series estate. It retains its character as a comfortable, functional, and enjoyable car to drive while offering the environmental benefits of an electric drivetrain.

One potential limitation is the cost. With a starting price of £96,995 (as tested, including optional extras), the i5 Touring sits at the premium end of the market. This pricing reflects its advanced technology, build quality, and brand positioning but may put it out of reach for some buyers.

A Glimpse Into BMW’s Electric Future

The i5 Touring is part of BMW’s broader push towards electrification, which includes offering battery-electric versions of their most popular models. This strategy ensures that customers can choose the powertrain that best suits their needs, whether they prefer the traditional feel of an ICE, the flexibility of a PHEV, or the sustainability of an EV.

BMW’s future design direction hinted at through concept models such as the Vision Neue Klasse, may bring a more minimalistic aesthetic to its vehicles. How this will influence the i5 Touring and other models remains to be seen, but it is clear that BMW aims to remain at the forefront of automotive innovation.

The BMW i5 Touring is a thoughtful addition to the growing EV market, offering a practical alternative for those who want the versatility of an estate without opting for an SUV. Its design, driving dynamics, and advanced technology make it a compelling choice for those considering a switch to electric mobility.

While it may not be perfect, the i5 Touring successfully bridges the gap between traditional and electric vehicles, showcasing the potential for EVs to meet diverse customer needs. For anyone seeking a spacious, feature-packed electric estate, the i5 Touring is well worth exploring.

Image credit: BMW