The 2025 BMW i5 xDrive40 is here, slotting neatly into the electric executive saloon scene with electrifying performance and typical BMW refinement. This all-wheel-drive stunner aims to blend luxury with impressive electric punch, making it a serious contender for those eyeing a premium EV experience. With a new price tag around €75,600 in Europe, it packs a compelling blend of tech, comfort, and that desirable dual-motor grip. It’s BMW’s electric 5 Series, evolved, and ready to impress with its balanced character and sophisticated road manners, offering a compelling alternative to its combustion-engined sibling.
For 2025, the big news for the i5 range is the arrival of this very xDrive40 trim! It cleverly fills the gap, offering sure-footed all-wheel drive without stretching to the full-fat M60's price or power. This means buyers get that desirable twin-motor setup and enhanced traction, perfect for varied European climates. Expect the latest BMW iDrive system, likely 8.5 or even a whisper of 9, with potential software tweaks and possibly some fresh alloy wheel designs or paint options to mark its introduction into the sophisticated i5 family. It’s a smart addition, broadening the i5's appeal.
The i5 xDrive40 boasts a sleek, modern take on the classic BMW saloon silhouette. It’s a sizeable machine at 5060 mm long, 1900 mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1515 mm tall. Expect crisp lines, flush door handles, and potentially the striking illuminated kidney grille as standard or an option. The xDrive40 trim typically gets its own unique alloy wheel designs, differentiating it subtly from other models. It's less shouty than the M60, but still exudes a confident, athletic presence on the road with its dynamic proportions and sophisticated LED lighting signature, making it instantly recognisable as a premium Bimmer.
Step inside the i5 xDrive40 and you’re greeted by BMW's stunning Curved Display, merging driver and infotainment screens into one high-tech sweep, running the latest iDrive system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Material quality is top-notch, with plush vegan options available. Passenger space is generous for five. Luggage-wise, you get a practical 490-litre boot, expanding to 785 litres with the seats down – though sadly, no frunk for your charging cables. The cabin feels airy, modern, and packed with sophisticated tech, creating a properly premium environment for any journey.
The i5 xDrive40 delivers a proper shove in the back thanks to its dual PMSM motors – one at the front, one at the rear – dishing out a combined 290 kW and a hefty 590 Nm of torque. This setup catapults the saloon from 0-100 km/h in a brisk 5.4 seconds, topping out at 215 km/h. Being all-wheel drive, traction is immense, offering confident handling in all conditions. Expect a refined yet engaging drive, balancing comfort beautifully with BMW's trademark agility. Adaptive regenerative braking modes help claw back energy efficiently. It's quick, composed, and impressively smooth.
Under the floor, the i5 xDrive40 packs an 81.2 kWh usable battery, giving a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 452 km. Its efficiency is a respectable 5.57 km/kWh. For charging, it uses the common CCS Type 2 port. AC charging is standard at 11 kW (a full charge takes roughly 7.5 hours), with a zippy 22 kW optional upgrade (around 4 hours). Hook it up to a DC fast charger, and it’ll suck down power at up to 206 kW, meaning a 10-80% top-up can be done in about 30 minutes.
Safety is paramount, and the BMW i5 scores a reassuring 5 stars from Euro NCAP. The xDrive40 comes equipped with a solid suite of standard driver aids, including essentials like autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning. For the full tech-fest, you’ll likely want to spec the optional Driving Assistant Professional package, which adds goodies like adaptive cruise control with stop & go, advanced lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Parking Assistant features are also typically comprehensive, making city manoeuvres a doddle. It’s well kitted out to keep you safe and relaxed.
BMW typically backs the i5 xDrive40 with a comprehensive warranty in Europe, often a 3-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle guarantee. Crucially, the high-voltage battery is usually covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, whichever comes first, with a performance guarantee against excessive degradation. Electric powertrain components share robust coverage. While complimentary maintenance plans can vary by region, BMWs are generally known for solid build quality. Regular software updates will keep the tech fresh, ensuring this electric saloon remains a reliable and cutting-edge companion for years to come. Always check local dealer specifics!
BMW i5 xDrive40 (2024-2025) 
