BMW Malaysia has been working hard to expand its electric vehicle (EV) lineup in Malaysia this year. Following the success of the i7, BMW Malaysia has recently introduced the i5 to its range. The i5, a mid-sized sedan, is poised to build on the i7’s accomplishments. The entry-level i5 available in Malaysia is the BMW i5 eDrive40, which I will be reviewing today. Since its launch, many i5s have hit Malaysian roads. In this review, I’ll explore why BMW has been so successful in selling these vehicles, while competitors struggle to achieve the same.
The latest i5 is a testament to the BMW design team’s craftsmanship. It is a modern reinterpretation of the classic 5-series, maintaining its handsome yet masculine aesthetics while keeping up with contemporary trends. Unlike some recent BMWs with separate daytime running lights and headlights, the i5 opts for a more conventional design, integrating the daytime running lights into the headlights. This traditional BMW styling works exceptionally well and will appeal to car enthusiasts. The full LED headlights feature matrix technology to prevent glare for other road users. Between the headlights, the illuminated grille is both distinctive and prominent, especially at night. 
The i5’s side profile showcases clean, sharp body lines that give the car a distinctive look. Thanks to its proportions, it cleverly conceals its larger size compared to previous 5-series models. At the rear, the i5 adopts an elegant design approach. BMW’s designers have restrained themselves from adding unnecessary styling elements, avoiding the overly common rear light bar. Instead, the i5 features separated full LED taillights, giving it a refined and unique appearance. This eDrive40 model comes with 20-inch rims and a staggered tire setup: 245/40 R20 tires at the front and 275/35 R20 tires at the rear for enhanced traction. 
Inside, the i5 boasts BMW’s latest interior design language, first introduced in the iX. The cabin feels modern and premium, exactly what you’d expect from a BMW. The dashboard is dominated by a large curved display housing two screens: a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment screen. Both screens offer high-definition graphics and are highly responsive to touch. The system is powered by BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional, offering a host of features. 
The instrument cluster has an attractive and modern digital gauge design. It’s easy to read and even includes augmented reality (AR) navigation. The infotainment screen shares the same sleek graphics and comes preloaded with various apps. While I didn’t explore all the apps, I appreciated the seamless wireless integration of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system automatically prompts to connect your phone as soon as you enter the vehicle. 
The i5 is also equipped with a full 360-degree camera system, delivering top-notch picture quality for parking assistance. Additionally, the 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System elevates the audio experience. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable, offering a wide range of adjustments for an ideal driving position. The thoughtful design allows the driver to reach the edge of the infotainment screen with ease.
Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and headroom, with seats providing excellent thigh support and a perfect recline angle. The rear cabin is equipped with four AC vents and sunshades for comfort. The i5 also features a spacious 490L boot, designed to fit golf bags, and the rear seats can fold down for additional cargo flexibility. 
The entry-level i5 eDrive40 is powered by a single electric motor located at the rear, making it a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, akin to the petrol-powered 520i. The motor is paired with an 81.2 kWh battery, delivering an estimated range of 582 km. This single electric motor can output 340hp and a peak torque of 400Nm. This allows the i5 to do the century sprint in 6 seconds and to a top speed of 193 km/h.
Despite having just one motor, the i5 offers plenty of power for smooth driving and can easily outperform most regular cars on the road. However, it might lag behind EVs with dual motors in terms of acceleration. During my test drive around Kuala Lumpur, the energy consumption averaged 21 kWh/100 km, translating to a realistic range of about 450 km on a full charge.
The i5’s suspension is tuned for comfort but remains capable in corners—a hallmark of BMW engineering. It absorbs road imperfections effortlessly while maintaining a level stance during spirited driving. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement, and the communicative steering make the i5 enjoyable on twisty roads. While the weight of the EV is noticeable, BMW engineers have done an excellent job optimizing its handling.
The regenerative braking system is well-tuned, efficiently slowing the car while providing a smooth transition to physical brakes when needed. The i5’s brakes are noticeably better than those found in many Chinese EVs.
The i5 comes fully loaded with BMW’s ADAS suite, making it easy to set up and use. The i5 is equipped with Lane Change Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention, Exit Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Speed Limit Info, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Front/Rear Cross-Traffic Warning, and Evasion Assistant. Additionally, the i5 also come with Parking Assistant Plus features that includes Reversing Assistant, Active Park Distance Control, Lateral Parking Aid, Surround View System, and Remote 3D View.
Priced at RM420,100, the i5 is not a budget-friendly EV, but it aligns perfectly with the expectations of a modern 5-series. It offers a refined driving experience, luxurious comfort, and advanced technology. Whether you’re driving or being chauffeured, the i5 impresses in every aspect. For long-time 5-series owners curious about transitioning to an EV, the i5 is a compelling choice. It combines the hallmark elegance and sportiness of the 5-series with the innovations of a next-generation vehicle.
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