First Glimpse of the 2024 BMW i5 Emerges Before Highly Anticipated October Launch

For over a year, BMW has been conducting extensive tests on the much-anticipated next-generation 5 Series. Despite the passage of time, the public has yet to be treated to a tantalizing glimpse of what's to come. However, the wait is finally over, as the Bavarian behemoth has chosen to unveil the first early preview of the mid-size model to an ecstatic audience.

This unveiling takes the form of a carefully-crafted image, depicting the all-electric variant shrouded in a compelling cover, leaving us to wonder at the thrilling possibilities that lie beneath. But that's not all, as BMW has also decided to drop some further bombshells by announcing the imminent arrival of not one but two battery-powered wagons, and a 5 Series M model, each boasting an electric powertrain of impressive capabilities.

With great excitement, BMW has announced that the eagerly-awaited global launch of the new 5 Series in its sedan form is finally scheduled for October of this year. As we eagerly await this milestone occasion, it's worth noting that this launch will not only include the standard 5 Series sedan but will also see the unveiling of the highly-anticipated i5 Sedan.

However, BMW is not content to simply rest on its laurels and bask in the glory of these triumphs. Instead, the automaker is already setting its sights on the future with the announcement that the i5 Touring will make its debut in European markets next year. It's no secret that the long-roof 5er continues to enjoy immense popularity among European drivers, and BMW is keen to ensure that this popularity continues to soar to even greater heights.

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, spoke enthusiastically during the company's annual conference. He also made a momentous announcement that will leave fans of the brand clamoring for more - the electric M version is on its way.

The all-electric BMW i4 M50 is a testament to how BMW has achieved the pinnacle of blending dynamic performance and electric mobility with unparalleled finesse. This vehicular offering has garnered immense popularity, as it was the best-selling BMW M model worldwide in 2022. Moreover, the new BMW 5 Series Sedan lineup will encompass a fully electric Performance model courtesy of BMW M GmbH.

While scant information is currently available about this M-branded performance zero-emission model, some experts posit that it could feature a two-motor powertrain, much like the i4 M50. In its current iteration, the i4 M50 boasts an impressive 536 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque, resulting in a blazing 0-62 miles per hour (0 to 100 kilometre per hour) sprint time of 3.9 seconds. While we cannot confirm whether the M version of the i5, potentially labeled the i5 M60, will offer more power, this would undoubtedly make sense since it will occupy a higher position in the brand's hierarchy, being larger and marginally heavier than its predecessor.

For those who have not yet committed to the notion of transitioning to a battery-powered 5 Series, BMW has revealed that they will also offer plug-in hybrid, gasoline, and diesel engines for the new generation model, contingent upon the region of purchase. Furthermore, the combustion powertrains will be augmented with a 48-volt mild-hybrid tech, rendering them even more capable. The tech front is not left behind, as the recently announced BMW iDrive 8.5 infotainment system will come standard across the entire range.

Despite the lack of official confirmation regarding the prices of the new petrol- and diesel-powered cars, one can surmise that they will inevitably carry a price tag heftier than the current entry-level £40,000 BMW 5 Series. In stark contrast, the electric i5 is projected to carry a significantly larger price tag, hovering around the region of £60,000.

Should the prospect of owning the new 5 Series seem too daunting and financially out of reach, fear not, for there is a solution that may be just right for you. Simply head over to our website's BMW Milton Keynes section, where you can peruse our wide selection of used 5 Series vehicles. With prices starting at a mere fraction of the cost of brand-new models, there has never been a better time to indulge in the timeless elegance and sophistication that the 5 Series has to offer.

Source and Images: Motor1 & CarWoW

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