BMW 8th Gen 5 Series LWB and i5 to be launched in India this festive season

BMW The eighth-generation 5 Series and its electric counterpart, the i5, are set to arrive in India in a longer and more luxurious form during the 2024 festive season, reports Autocar.

For those who prefer a driver-driven experience, the extended-wheelbase 5 Series is set to take on the upcoming new-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

The long-wheelbase 5 Series features a striking design, which retains the iconic BMW kidney grille and illuminated features. A unique touch is the illuminated ‘5’ on the C-pillar, which glows in white for conventional models and pulsating blue for the electric i5 during charging.

The major upgrade lies in the increased dimensions, with the 5 Series LWB measuring 5,175 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width and 1,520 mm in height. The wheelbase measures 3,105 mm, making it 145 mm longer overall and providing an extra 110 mm in wheelbase length compared to the standard 5 Series. Interestingly, the i5 is the first BMW EV sedan to be available in both short and long wheelbase variants.

Inside, the new 5 Series and i5 LWB feature a familiar BMW interior with a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster and a driver-focused 14.9-inch central infotainment touchscreen. The rear passenger area steals the show with extra legroom, reclining rear seats, four-zone climate control, special quilted upholstery and a dual-tone design. For entertainment, the headliner opens up to a 31.1-inch 32:9 display, offering an 8K resolution screen compatible with 5G connectivity.

For the Indian market, the 5 Series is expected to come in 520Li or 530Li as well as 520Ld versions, which are equipped with 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and diesel engines, both with a mild-hybrid system. An 8-speed automatic transmission will be standard across the range.

On the electric front, the i5 is likely to come in eDrive40 form, with a 340hp motor and 81.2kWh battery pack for a maximum range of 582 km. While international markets get the M60 xDrive variant, which produces 601 bhp combined with a range of 516 km, there is no confirmation on its availability in India.

In terms of pricing, the ex-showroom price of the 5 Series LWB is estimated to be between Rs 70 lakh and Rs 80 lakh, which is lower than the new E-Class. Meanwhile, the i5 is expected to be priced in the Rs 90 lakh to Rs 1 crore (ex-showroom) range, entering the market without any direct rival.