BMW i5 eDrive40

Overview

The 2025 BMW i5 eDrive40 represents the final model year for this specific rear-wheel-drive executive electric sedan, blending traditional BMW luxury with impressive EV tech. Positioned as an accessible entry into the premium i5 lineup, it offered a compelling balance of range and performance before its production concluded in 2025. Now primarily found on the pre-owned market, you might snag one for around €54,889. It's a sophisticated choice for those wanting a dynamic yet comfortable electric cruiser, squaring up against rivals with typical BMW polish, making these final models particularly noteworthy.

What's New for 2025?

As the 2025 BMW i5 eDrive40 marks the concluding year for this trim, major overhauls weren't on the cards. Instead, expect the latest iteration of BMW's Operating System, likely 8.5, bringing refined infotainment and connectivity. Any changes would primarily be subtle tweaks to equipment packages or available options, ensuring it bowed out with the most up-to-date software and a polished feature set. Essentially, it’s the culmination of the eDrive40’s development, offering a mature and well-specced package for its final curtain call in the European market, as production ceased this year.

Design & Exterior

The i5 eDrive40 boasts a sleek, modern saloon silhouette that’s unmistakably BMW, but with a contemporary electric twist. Think sharp lines, a bold (optionally illuminated) kidney grille, and slick LED lighting front and rear. The eDrive40 trim typically rolls on stylish alloy wheels, a tad more understated than its M-badged sibling. Dimensionally, it’s a substantial machine: 5060 mm long, 1900 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1515 mm tall, giving it serious road presence. It’s a classy exec express, perfectly at home on European city streets or autobahns.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the i5 eDrive40 and you're greeted by BMW's stunning Curved Display, seamlessly integrating instruments and infotainment. Material quality is top-notch, with sustainable options often available, creating a plush and airy cabin for its 5 occupants. Tech-wise, BMW's latest OS runs the show, with crisp graphics and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. For your luggage, there's a decent 490-litre boot, expanding to 785 litres with the seats down. Sadly, there’s no frunk for your charge cables, but the main boot is plenty practical for most executive saloon needs.

Performance & Driving Experience

The i5 eDrive40 isn’t a fire-breathing M-car, but it’s certainly no slouch! With its single rear-mounted 250 kW PMSM motor delivering a healthy 430 Nm of torque, this rear-wheel-drive saloon zips from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 6.0 seconds. Expect that classic BMW blend of engaging handling and superb ride comfort, making it a joy on twisty roads or cruising motorways up to its 193 km/h top speed. BMW’s refined regenerative braking system allows for efficient energy recovery, often with adaptive modes. It's a smooth operator!

Range, Battery & Charging

Under the skin, the i5 eDrive40 packs an 81.2 kWh (usable) battery, delivering a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 464 km – pretty solid for daily duties and longer jaunts. Efficiency is rated at a decent 5.71 km/kWh. For top-ups, standard AC charging via its CCS Type 2 port is 11 kW (approx. 7.5 hours for full), with a punchier 22 kW optional upgrade (approx. 3.7 hours). Find a DC fast charger, and you can hammer in juice at up to 206 kW, adding significant range quickly.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

BMW doesn't skimp on safety, and the i5 eDrive40 proudly wears a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. You'll find a comprehensive suite of standard driver aids, including autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warnings. For the full-fat experience, BMW’s Driving Assistant Professional package is often available, bundling goodies like adaptive cruise control with stop & go, advanced lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Parking Assistant features also help navigate tight spots, making this exec saloon both safe and easy to live with in bustling European cities.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, BMW typically backs the i5 eDrive40 with a 3-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty, providing good peace of mind. Critically for an EV, the high-voltage battery is covered for a more extensive 8 years or 160,000 kilometres, guaranteeing against excessive degradation (usually to 70% capacity). Powertrain components share this robust coverage. While specific complimentary maintenance packages can vary by market or be optional extras, BMW’s EV platform is proving reliable, promising reasonable upkeep for this premium electric sedan during its lifespan on the road.