The upcoming electric BMW 5 Series spinoff, called the i5, is the latest model from the Bavarian brand to be leaked ahead of its reveal.
A single image of the i5 has been published by Autospy, following an earlier, grainier leaked image of the car’s rear.
The i5 is set to be revealed on May 24.
It could be revealed alongside the combustion-powered 5 Series range, as BMW did with the X1 and iX1, and 7 Series and i7.
The grille – which will offer illumination – appears larger than before, if not to the same excessive degree as other Bimmers like the 4 Series, while the headlights somewhat resemble those of the new X1.
There’s arguably more of a fastback look to the 5 Series this time around. Its fairly clean flanks are punctuated by a subtle crease running just below the beltline.
As previously reported, CarExpert understands the i5 is on track to hit local showrooms before the end of 2023, with its petrol-powered 5 Series sibling following close behind it.
It’s unclear if the BMW i5 and 5 Series will be sedan-only in Australia. Touring wagon versions of both will be offered in markets like Europe.
BMW hasn’t locked in official launch timing just yet, but has confirmed the i5 will launch in some markets in October.
The BMW i5 will take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz EQE, Genesis Electrified G80, Tesla Model S, as well as the forthcoming Audi A6 e-tron.
The i5 sedan and wagon will sit alongside the combustion-powered 5 Series in BMW showrooms, with a similar design – just like the i4 sits alongside the 4 Series, but features unique wheels, detailing, and grilles.
Under the skin, the i5 rides on a version of the CLAR platform that will also under the petrol 5er, and forms the base for the i4 and iX EVs.
BMW has confirmed it will offer a longer-range, less-powerful i5 eDrive40 with rear-wheel drive, and an all-wheel drive M60 xDrive flagship.
How much power they’ll offer isn’t yet clear; the iX xDrive40 makes 240kW and 630Nm, while the M60 pumps out 455kW and 1100Nm.
Rear-wheel steering, active anti-roll technology, and a fully active suspension setup will be offered. BMW promises it will blend “ride comfort approaching BMW 7 Series levels with the sporting agility familiar from the BMW 3 Series”.
It’ll also feature a new active driver assist suite. In some markets, the highway driving assistant is capable of acceleration, braking, and steering at up to 130km/h.
An interior camera means when the driver looks at the relevant exterior mirror, the car will make a lane change in that direction if it’s safe.
MORE: Everything BMW 5 Series
