BMW launches eighth-generation five series in South Africa with electric variant
The highly anticipated eighth-generation BMW 5 Series has officially arrived in South Africa, marking a significant milestone for the brand by introducing its first electric variant. At launch, the lineup will include two distinct models: the diesel-powered 520d, starting at R1,240,000, and the groundbreaking all-electric i5 M60 xDrive, which begins at R2,190,000.
The 520d has a robust 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, delivering 152 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque. This allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. However, the i5 M60 xDrive elevates performance to another level. Featuring a twin-motor all-wheel-drive system, it boasts an impressive 442 kW and 795 Nm of torque, achieving a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in a mere 3.8 seconds. This places it just slightly behind the performance of the outgoing M5 Competition model.
According to BMW's claims, the electric i5 M60 xDrive is powered by an 81 kWh battery, offering a range of 456 to 515 km on a single charge. Further distinguishing the i5 is its M badge, which comes with an 8mm-lower Adaptive Suspension system and various M-specific design elements, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and performance capabilities.
Inside, the 2024 BMW 5 Series showcases the latest BMW Operating System 8.5, significantly expanding the vehicle's digital entertainment capabilities, including the option for in-car gaming when the car is stationary. The updated system introduces a new iDrive interface and a more intuitive menu system integrated within the Curved Display cockpit. This setup features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central display.
An optional "interaction bar" is available, enabling control of specific functions through hand gestures, adding a layer of convenience and technological sophistication. Standard on the BMW 520d is the M Sport Package, with the M Sport Pro kit available. BMW offers vast interior feature packages, allowing for extensive customization.
Among these packages is the Equipment Package Professional, priced at R40,000, which includes BMW Live Cockpit Professional, Interior Camera, Parking Assist Professional, and BMW Natural Interaction. For R70,000, the Deluxe Package adds luxury features like a sky roof, ambient cabin lighting, and four-zone climate control.
While the full range of standard features was unavailable due to the online configurator's downtime, the options listed offer a glimpse into the customizable luxury and innovative technology that define the new BMW 5 Series. This launch enhances BMW's prestigious lineup and sets a new benchmark for luxury sedans in the South African market.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW 5 Series cost in South Africa?
The eighth-generation BMW 5 Series starts at R1,240,000 for the 520d diesel model, while the electric i5 M60 xDrive will set you back R2,190,000, making it nearly twice the price of the entry-level variant.
Q: What's the range of the electric BMW i5 M60 xDrive?
BMW claims the i5 M60 xDrive delivers between 456 and 515 kilometres on a single charge thanks to its 81 kWh battery pack, which should be enough for most daily driving needs without range anxiety.
Q: How fast is the new BMW 5 Series?
The diesel 520d accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in 7.3 seconds with its 152 kW output, but the electric i5 M60 xDrive absolutely flies with a 3.8-second sprint thanks to its 442 kW twin-motor setup and 795 Nm of torque.
Q: Is the BMW 5 Series worth buying in 2024?
The new 5 Series offers excellent technology with BMW Operating System 8.5 and impressive performance, especially the electric variant, but at R1,240,000 for the base model it's definitely a premium purchase that competes with other luxury sedans in South Africa.
Q: What's the difference between the 520d and i5 M60 xDrive?
The 520d uses a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine producing 152 kW, while the i5 M60 xDrive is fully electric with 442 kW from twin motors, M Sport enhancements, and costs nearly R1 million more at R2,190,000 versus R1,240,000.
Should You Buy It?
The eighth-generation BMW 5 Series is a solid buy if you've got the budget, but which variant you choose depends entirely on your wallet and driving needs. At R1,240,000, the 520d offers traditional BMW luxury with decent performance and proven diesel reliability. However, the real star is the i5 M60 xDrive at R2,190,000, delivering supercar-quick acceleration and cutting-edge tech, though you'll pay handsomely for the privilege. For most South African buyers, the 520d represents better value, but if you want to make a statement and have the charging infrastructure sorted, the electric i5 M60 xDrive is genuinely impressive. The best luxury sedan under R1.5 million in South Africa remains the 520d, while the i5 M60 xDrive is the ultimate electric performance sedan if budget isn't a concern.
