BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan

BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan Overview

The BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan positions itself as a premium midsize BMW electric sedan, sitting between the compact i4 and the flagship i7 in the brand’s EV lineup. It targets executives and families who want a refined, tech-forward electric vehicle with traditional 5 Series comfort rather than a radical EV-only design. As a BMW electric sedan, it blends familiar luxury-sedan proportions with a fully electric powertrain, making it an easy transition for existing BMW owners.

Built on BMW’s latest flexible platform with an 84.3 kWh lithium-ion battery and rear-mounted motor, the i5 eDrive40 focuses on efficiency, comfort, and long-distance capability rather than outright brute performance. EV shoppers comparing EV specs will find a competitive real-world range, strong charging performance, and a polished interior loaded with digital tech, including a 14.9‑inch curved display and advanced driver-assistance systems. This BMW i5 eDrive40 review matters in the EV landscape because it shows how BMW is electrifying its core 5 Series segment without sacrificing driving dynamics, cabin quality, or long-haul usability.

BMW i5 eDrive40 Performance and Driving Experience

The BMW i5 eDrive40 delivers 335 hp (250 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque from its single rear-mounted electric motor, driving the rear wheels through a 1‑speed direct drive transmission. BMW quotes a 0–60 mph time of about 5.7 seconds, which feels brisk and effortless in daily driving, with smooth, linear power delivery and instant torque for quick passing on highways. Variable sport steering and a sophisticated double‑wishbone front and multi‑link rear suspension help the car feel agile yet composed, more like a classic 5 Series than a typical heavy EV.

On the road, the i5 eDrive40 emphasizes refinement: quiet operation, well‑damped ride, and predictable regenerative braking. Rear‑wheel drive keeps the handling balance neutral and engaging, especially in Sport mode, while My Modes lets the driver tailor steering, throttle response, and ambient settings for comfort or efficiency. For most drivers, the BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan will feel like a true luxury sport sedan that just happens to be electric.

BMW i5 eDrive40 Range and Battery Specifications

Official range figures for the BMW i5 eDrive40 vary slightly by wheel size and configuration, but BMW cites 278–310 miles under ideal conditions, with U.S. marketing materials highlighting 270–295 miles of maximum range. In real-world mixed driving, most owners can expect roughly 250–270 miles (402–435 km), depending on climate, speed, and use of climate control. That makes the i5 eDrive40 competitive in its class and suitable for longer commutes or regular highway trips.

Under the floor sits an 84.3 kWh lithium-ion battery (usable capacity), operating on a 400‑volt architecture. Energy efficiency for the BMW i5 eDrive40 Sedan works out to roughly 28–32 kWh/100 mi (175–200 Wh/km) in typical driving, with higher consumption at sustained motorway speeds or in cold weather. As with any EV, the BMW i5 eDrive40 WLTP range, EPA-style estimates, and real-world range will shift based on driving style, terrain, and temperature, but its battery specs put it squarely among the most usable long-range executive EVs.

BMW i5 eDrive40 Charging Times and Options

At home, the BMW i5 eDrive40 supports AC charging up to 11 kW via its onboard charger. On a typical 240V Level 2 wallbox, a full charge from empty to 100% takes about 9–10 hours, ideal for overnight charging. Level 1 (120V) charging is technically possible but slow, adding only a few miles of range per hour, and is best reserved for emergencies. Most owners will want a dedicated Level 2 setup to fully exploit the car’s battery capacity.

On the road, the i5 eDrive40 supports DC fast charging with peak rates around 205 kW. Under optimal conditions, BMW indicates you can add 90–100 miles of range in about 10 minutes, or go from 10–80% in roughly 30 minutes on a high-power DC charger. The BMW i5 eDrive40 is compatible with major public charging networks via CCS, making long-distance travel straightforward when planned around fast-charging stops.

BMW i5 eDrive40 vs Competitors

In the BMW i5 eDrive40 vs Tesla Model 3 Long Range comparison, the Tesla typically offers slightly more range and faster Supercharger access, while the BMW counters with superior interior quality, comfort, and driving refinement. Compared to the BMW i5 eDrive40 vs Mercedes EQE Sedan, the i5 feels sportier and more driver-focused, whereas the EQE leans into softness and futuristic styling. Against the BMW i5 eDrive40 vs Audi Q4 e-tron or Hyundai Ioniq 6, the i5 eDrive40 sits higher on price but offers a larger cabin, more power, and a more premium, executive-sedan experience, making it particularly appealing to traditional luxury buyers moving into EVs.