Fresh off the launch of the new i4 last month, SMC Asia Cars Distributors Corporation (SMCACDC) and BMW Philippines are now back with the reveal of yet another new model in our market: the new 5-Series. Specifically, the all-electric i5 and the mild-hybrid 520i.
Let’s start with the 520i. You’ll be pleased to know that while the 5-Series still boasts that signature modern-day BMW look, it still comes with a much tamer and likable grille than that of its big-mouthed stablemates. It gets just a bit of plastic cladding on both the front and rear ends and slightly more on the sides. The latter features some shiny trim for added exterior accents. The vehicle also gets 19-inch Triplex spoke light alloy wheels as standard.
On the inside, of course, there are screens for days. Much like its siblings, the 5-Series comes with a large display on the dash that’s easily the most eye-catching bit of the interior. The 12.3-inch instrument cluster and the 14.9-inch infotainment system are integrated into this single panel, making for a very futuristic-looking cabin.
Standard premium BMW stuff all around, too, with not-subtle-at-all hints of leather, an abundance of shiny, gloss-black plastic trim, and Harman Kardon speakers to go along with the large display.
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Under the hood, the 520i is powered by a mild-hybrid system that consists of a 2.0-liter in-line-four gasoline engine that puts out 208hp and 330Nm of torque mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with the use of a 48V starter-generator. This powertrain supposedly allows the ICE version of the 5-Series to go from 0-100kph in 7.5sec and reach a top speed of 230kph.
Moving over to the i5, here you’ll get a similar look as the 520i, only the grille is, well, not a grille. It’s just a black plastic panel, but the good thing is that it doesn’t look an inch bigger than that of the 520i. This one also sits on 19-inch wheels, only they’re aerodynamic and come with a bicolor grey finish.
The inside of the i5 is almost identical, with the same plastic panels, and leather trim as the 520i. The head unit up front is also the same, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is also available across the range.
The two variants also get a host of driver-assist tech, most notably the Parking Assistant with a new range of functions. There’s the reversing assistant that takes over steering duties when reversing for up to 50m.
As for the all-electric powertrain, you’re looking at a rear-mounted, single-motor setup in the i5 that’s capable of 340hp and 430Nm of torque. Maximum range is about 582km, 0-100kph is done in 6sec, and top speed is at 193kph.
Color options for the 5-Series are namely: Mineral White, Black Sapphire, Cape York Green, Oxide Grey, Phytonic Blue, and Sophisto Grey. As for their pricing, the 520i will sticker for P4.99 million, while the i5 eDrive40 goes for a less modest P5.79 million.
Both models come with a five-year comprehensive BMW warranty, while the i5 gets an additional six-year BMW Service inclusive package, an eigh-year high-voltage battery warranty, and a BMW Wallbox charger to be installed in the customer’s home by a BMW i partner.
More photos of the BMW i5 2024:
More photos of the BMW 520i 2024:
