Experience the first electric drive of the BMW i5 Touring.
BMW introduces its five-seater electric estate variant called Touring after the sedan. Ntv.de has taken the Touring out for a test drive. Albeit electrically powered for now, the estate car has gained immense popularity as it can carry more luggage than SUVs, yet has a lower environmental footprint. Despite not being higher than a saloon and usually lower than a soft SUV, it still manages to provide ample space and is more eco-friendly.
The automobile industry is the face of change as it transitions from combustion engines to electric vehicles in order to comply with CO2-limit value legislation. BMW is pioneering electric estate cars with its five-series model. While hybrids are still available, BMW downplays their significance, suggesting that battery-electric drives will be in the spotlight. With diesel and gasoline hybrids on the sidelines during the first test drives, it's clear where the company's bets are placed. BMW can also continue to offer combustion engines to those who prefer them.
To lure customers, BMW introduces the M60, boasting a 601 hp performance. But to get a feel, an eDrive40 is first tested. With a base price of 72,200 euros, it's costly but powerful at 340 hp. With rear-wheel drive, it aligns with the quiet style the Touring embodies. With 430 Newton meters of torque, the eDrive40 accelerates swiftly. With 2.3 tons in weight, it's a well-balanced car.
Merely curious, the M60 is tested next, and it's an astonishing experience. The all-wheel drive doesn't cause traction issues, allowing for the full power to be utilized in all driving modes. There's a ten-second boost mode that calls up 820 Newton meters and 601 hp on request. The M60 hits 3.9 seconds to reach 100 km/h, and accelerates further, reaching a top speed of 230 km/h. However, the eDrive40 also has impressive figures: 6.1 seconds to reach 100 km/h and a braking speed of 193 km/h. The M60 driver is easily identifiable with its prominent front spoiler and striking rear diffuser.
In conclusion, the BMW Touring has a well-balanced chassis catering to comfort on long journeys, and powerful performance with a sporty edge. The eDrive40 is an appealing option with its dynamic character, powerful engine, and quiet driving experience. The electrified Touring surely marks a significant step towards an electric future in the automobile industry. And for those unwilling to let go of their combustion engines entirely, BMW assures that such engines will still be available.
The power steering is precise and responsive, while its weight of around 2.3 tons goes unnoticed. The electric car is surprisingly spirited for its size and power output, making it a desirable option for those seeking practicality without compromising on performance. It's clear that electrified estate cars will only become more popular as electric vehicles break through in the automotive industry.
Will i5 drivers miss the sound of their diesel engines? Not likely if we're just looking at the driving experience. The smooth six-cylinder petrol engine is a more difficult replacement. However, the biggest change might be the energy source. Filling up a tank in just five minutes is a thing of the past. With a three-meter wheelbase and a total length of 5.06 meters, the i5 Touring is certainly made for long journeys. It's spacious, quiet, and has luxurious high-tech seats that you might not want to leave.
Charging takes longer than refueling
This convenience may be disrupted from time to time when driving long distances. After all, it can take up to 30 minutes to charge the battery from 10 to 80% (peak charging power of 205kW). Future models like the New Class with an 800-volt on-board electrical system could charge faster, but not yet. At least, you can pass the time by streaming videos or playing games on the large curved display while waiting.
The switchover is financially enticing for company car drivers. The tax deductions for private journeys are based on the halved gross list price of the car. BMW claims the i5 Touring has a 560km range according to WLTP standards, but real-world range depends on factors like temperature and driving style. Plus, you'll typically charge the battery to 80% on the road to save time. We'll see how i5 Touring performing energy-wise soon.
Unfortunately, BMW has eliminated separately opening rear windows, a longstanding tradition. Despite this, the garage still offers enough space with a trunk capacity of 1,700 liters. The car can carry heavy loads with an air-sprung rear axle (and level control), which is standard for both the estate and the sedan versions. There's also an enhanced suite of assistants, including automatic overtaking, which we'll talk about later.
The BMW i5 Touring configurator is already open for business.
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Source: www.ntv.de
