BMW is almost ready to launch the first-ever BMW i5 with final testing happening as we speak. Over the past year, the BMW i5 has undergone a wide variety of tests in different driving conditions, and fine-tuning was carried out at the BMW Group’s proving grounds in France. Specially tuned suspension systems have been designed to maximize comfort and agility.

Given that this CLAAR based 5 series forming the basis of both the electric i5 and the ICE 5 Series, it will be interesting to see how BMW handles the dynamic differences between the two. There’s precedent of course with the 4 Series and more recently with the new 7 Series. And from our experience it’s the electric i7 that shows us how transformative the electric version can be.

BMW i5
BMW i5
BMW i5
BMW i5

The BMW i5 also features a range of systems for automated driving and parking, including the innovative Highway Assistant, which can control distance and lane control up to speeds of 130 km/h. The car’s automated lane change feature can be controlled using eye activation, allowing for a new level of interaction between the driver and the car.

In the USA and Canada, and now also in Germany, the Driving Assistant Professional available as an option for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan comprises Highway Assistant, which can be used at speeds of up to 130 km/h (85 mph). Once activated, the system takes care of distance control and the steering inputs required for lane control, so the driver can keep their hands in a comfortable position and focus fully on surveying the area around the vehicle and the traffic situation at hand.

Production of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan will begin in summer 2023, with market launch scheduled for October 2023.