The BMW i5 Touring (G61) xDrive40, introduced in November 2024, represents BMW’s foray into the premium, all-electric station wagon segment. Positioned as a technologically advanced and practical offering, the i5 Touring builds upon the foundation of the i5 sedan, extending its electric powertrain and luxurious appointments into a versatile estate body style. This variant, equipped with an 83.9 kWh battery and dual electric motors producing a combined 394 horsepower, aims to deliver a balance of performance, range, and cargo capacity for discerning buyers. It is part of the G61 generation, utilizing BMW’s Neue Klasse platform designed for electric vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | i5 |
| Generation | i5 Touring (G61) |
| Type (Engine) | 83.9 kWh (394 Hp) xDrive40 |
| Start of production | November, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 253.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 83.9 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 81.2 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 467-561 km (290.18 – 348.59 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 16.4-19.5 kWh/100 km (26.39 – 31.38 kWh/100 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (MPGe) | 128 – 107 |
| Average Energy consumption (km/kWh) | 6.1 – 5.1 |
| Average Energy consumption (mi/kWh) | 3.8 – 3.2 |
| Electric motor 1 power | 313 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Electric motor 1 Torque | 400 Nm @ 0-5000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 0-5000 rpm) |
| Electric motor 1 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 1 type | Synchronous |
| Electric motor 2 power | 258 Hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Electric motor 2 Torque | 365 Nm @ 0-5000 rpm (269.21 lb.-ft. @ 0-5000 rpm) |
| Electric motor 2 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 type | Synchronous |
| System power | 394 Hp |
| System torque | 590 Nm (435.16 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2330 kg (5136.77 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2965 kg (6536.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 570 l (20.13 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1700 l (60.03 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 5060 mm (199.21 in.) |
| Width | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2156 mm (84.88 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1622 mm (63.86 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Front overhang | 945 mm (37.2 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1120 mm (44.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 147 mm (5.79 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front wheel tires | 245/45 R19; 245/40 R20 |
| Rear wheel tires | 275/40 R19; 275/35 R20 |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 19; 8.5J x 20 |
| Rear wheel rims | 10J x 19; 10J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The i5 Touring xDrive40 utilizes BMW’s fifth-generation electric drivetrain. It features a dual-motor setup, with one synchronous electric motor powering the front axle and another powering the rear axle, providing all-wheel drive capability. The combined output of these motors is 394 horsepower and 590 Nm (435 lb-ft) of torque. The 83.9 kWh gross (81.2 kWh net) lithium-ion battery pack is positioned low in the vehicle floor, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The battery operates at 400V. The electric motors employ advanced cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures during demanding driving conditions. The single-speed automatic transmission is integral to each motor, providing seamless power delivery. Regenerative braking is also incorporated, capturing kinetic energy during deceleration to recharge the battery and enhance efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The i5 Touring xDrive40 delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.2 seconds. The instant torque characteristic of electric motors provides responsive acceleration in all driving situations. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather. While the single-speed transmission simplifies the driving experience, it lacks the gear ratios found in traditional internal combustion engines, which can sometimes result in a less engaging feel for driving enthusiasts. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement, contributes to stable and confident handling. Driving modes allow the driver to tailor the vehicle’s performance characteristics to their preferences, ranging from Comfort to Sport.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The i5 Touring xDrive40 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including BMW’s iDrive 8.5 infotainment system with a curved display encompassing a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central control display. Standard interior appointments include premium upholstery, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. Available options include upgraded leather upholstery, a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. The exterior features aerodynamic enhancements designed to improve efficiency, along with BMW’s signature kidney grille, now featuring a modern, illuminated design.
Chassis & Braking
The i5 Touring xDrive40 utilizes a sophisticated chassis design featuring a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both incorporating transverse stabilizers. This setup is tuned to provide a balance of ride comfort and handling precision. Ventilated disc brakes are employed on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control systems enhance safety and control. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BMW i5 Touring xDrive40 has been generally well-received by automotive critics, who praise its blend of performance, practicality, and luxury. Comparisons to other premium electric station wagons, such as the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo, highlight the i5 Touring’s competitive range and spacious interior. Fuel economy, expressed as MPGe, is estimated to be between 107 and 128, depending on driving conditions. While the i5 Touring represents a significant investment, its long-term running costs are expected to be lower than those of comparable gasoline-powered vehicles due to the reduced maintenance requirements of an electric powertrain.
Legacy
The i5 Touring xDrive40 represents a pivotal step in BMW’s electrification strategy, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to offering a diverse range of electric vehicles. The long-term reliability of the powertrain remains to be fully assessed, but BMW’s extensive experience in electric vehicle technology suggests a high level of durability. As the used car market matures, the i5 Touring is expected to hold its value well, appealing to buyers seeking a premium, all-electric station wagon with a blend of performance, practicality, and advanced technology.
