2024 BMW i5 M60 review (video)

BMW’s long-standing tradition of blending luxury with performance takes a significant step in a different direction with the all-new 2024 BMW i5 M60. This, fully electric performance sedan, replaces the M550i V8. It has some big shoes to fill.

On first impressions, this offers exactly the same acceleration, is $65,900 more expensive, and a whopping 479kg heavier than its predecessor. However, the new model packs some super-advanced technologies, some of which are not possible or compatible with combustion engines, and luxury levels have clearly taken a leap forward. Fuel consumption has obviously been cut as well, to zero.

2024 BMW i5 M60: Specifications

Battery: 84kWh, 400V
Output: 442kW / 820Nm (boost mode)
Gearbox: Single-speed auto
Drive type: All-wheel drive
Wheels: F 20×8.5, 245/40 R: 20×10, 275/35
ANCAP: Not tested
Weight: 2350kg
Power-to-weight: 5.31:1 (kg:kW)
Official WLTP range: 506km
Max charging AC/DC: 22kW/205KW

0-60km/h: 2.14 seconds*
0-100km/h: 3.81 seconds*
0-200km/h: 11.79 seconds*
60-110km/h: 2.18 seconds*
1/4 mile: 11.79 seconds at 200.1km/h*
Max acceleration: 1.126g*
100-0km/h braking: 38.95m in 3.16s*
Max deceleration: -1.588g*
Decibel at idle/standby: 22*
Peak decibel at 60-100km/h: 74*
Starting price: $219,900

*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different

2024 BMW i5 M60: How much does it cost?

Prices start from $219,900 (excluding on-roads). That is, in our opinion, a bit ridiculous. Obviously a next-gen model has more tech and more features, and evolved dynamics and all of that, so prices naturally increase a bit. But considering the old M550i xDrive V8 was priced from $154,000, this does seem like a huge climb up.

The closest competitor is the Mercedes-AMG EQE 53, priced from $214,574. For the BMW alternative to be more expensive than the ‘Benz is quite unusual based on decades of rivalry. For example, the old M550i’s rival was the old E 53 AMG, and even though it was slightly slower and featured a six-cylinder engine, it was priced from $173,869 – about $20k more than the M550i.

2024 BMW i5 M60: Interior & packaging

Firstly, let’s just touch on the design. The new model goes for a more modern look with fewer curves and more of a ‘melted’ theme, which, you might think is slipperier through the air than before. However, the new G60 model offers a drag coefficient rating of 0.23, while the old G30 was rated 0.22.

The front end incorporates active aero flaps to improve airflow, and the rear end showcases a smoothed-over look with a discreet diffuser element down below. Going for the M60 adds subtle aero enhancements as well as a set of bespoke 20-inch alloy wheels. These wear staggered tyre sizes with 245/40s on the front and 275/35s on the back.

Now stretching 5060mm in length, 1900mm in width, and 1505mm in height, the new model is 88mm longer, 32mm wider, and 38mm taller than the M550i. This helps explain the big change in weight, from 1871kg before to 2350kg now (tare). Obviously the battery makes up a big portion of that as well, which we’ll get to soon.

At the front the ‘Iconic Glow’ illuminated kidney grille surrounds make a bold statement – standard on Australian models – while the adaptive LED headlights with matrix high-beam and blue design elements add a futuristic touch.

Inside, the cabin truly exudes luxury, with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. It all feels extremely well made and put together. The twin-screen curved display incorporating a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch multimedia system dominates the cabin, and it all runs BMW’s very quick and mostly intuitive iDrive 8.5 system, with the new QuickSelect menu setup ensuring easy operation.

Vegan upholstery options, including a leather-like Veganza, cover the seats, dashboard, and door panels, aligning with BMW’s commitment to sustainability. For those seeking even more luxury, BMW Individual Merino leather upholstery options are available in several bicolour variants.

Other highlights include an ‘Interaction Bar’, complete with elegant back-lighting and a crystalline surface extending across the instrument panel and into the door panels. This feature includes touch-sensitive control panels for various functions. Additionally, the BMW ‘CraftedClarity’ glass application, standard on the i5 M60, adds a touch of sophistication with crystal-cut glass elements for the iDrive controller, start button, volume roller, and gear selector.

There are no complaints in regards to passenger space. This is a large vehicle that well and truly comforts its passengers. The seats are highly supportive in the front and the driving position is perfect, as per typical of BMWs. Rear passengers are treated to climate controls, charging ports, and generous legroom for this class. Boot space is rated at 570L (up from 530L before), and you can fold down the rear seats for more room.

2024 BMW i5 M60: Powertrain & handling

At the heart of the i5 M60 is a powerful electric powertrain, energised by an 84kWh battery that provides a WLTP-rated range of 506km. A drive unit is featured on the front and rear axles to produce a combined output of 442kW and 820Nm when M Sport Boost or Launch Control is activated (380kW/795Nm normally). That’s 52kW and 70Nm more than the old V8.

However, due to that higher weight, the power-to-weight ratio is inferior in this new model, at 5.31kg:1kW versus 4.79kg:1kW in the old V8. As a result, BMW’s official 0-100km/h claim is 3.8 seconds – exactly the same as the old V8 model that produced 390kW.

This doesn’t mean the new model is slow. With more weight and the same 0-100km/h time means there is a huge amount of g-force experienced in the new M60 (1.126g, according to our Vbox). It pushes you hard back into your seat. It’s savage. We did some Vbox tests on a private road to verify the claims, and the results are impressive. It took 3.81 seconds to cover 0-100km/h, 11.79 seconds to cross the quarter mile at 200.1km/h, and 0-200km/h came up in 11.79 seconds. Proper super-sports car territory.

And being electric, the response is immediate. In fact, it can and will spin all four tyres off the mark if you’re abrupt with the throttle. Speaking of which, the throttle feel is superb. We’re not sure how BMW managed it, but it feels like you’re driving a – very serious – petrol engine vehicle, purely in terms of pedal feel. Acceleration is progressive and the pedal actually feels engaging somehow. Hard to explain but if you take one for a test drive you’ll see what I mean. It’s good.

BMW’s expertise in chassis dynamics is evident in the i5 M60. The Adaptive Suspension Professional, which includes electronically controlled dampers and Integral Active Steering (rear-axle steering), ensures a perfect balance between committed handling and long-distance touring. The car’s 50:50 axle load distribution further enhances its dynamic breadth.

Along a spirited road the instant power and torque comes in handy, allowing you to catapult away from corners and dive into the next one. And it is extremely quick thanks to that lightning response. The all-wheel drive smarts means you can apply loads of throttle – too much if you’re daring – and it will sort most of it out and play along with you. It loves being pushed hard, which, to me, is an important characteristic of any BMW. It’s great to see it here.

But yeah, that weight. It is noticeable when punching between tight switchbacks, as it heaves and lurches more than the old M550i. It was always going to be a tough task for engineers to hide that weight. And, honestly, most of the time it is masked well. But if you enjoy driving at a very high tempo then you will notice the mass.

The steering feel is a bit strange as well, for a BMW. Partly due to the rear-axle steering which does help to shorten the wheelbase for agility and increase high-speed stability, but it doesn’t feel as natural to turn as previous 5 Series models in my opinion.

In terms of the electric side, the i5 M60 is equipped with a 400V battery offering an energy capacity of 84kWh. This provides a WLTP driving range of up to 506km. Owners can charge at up to 22kW using three-phase AC power, or up to 205kW with a DC fast charger.

2024 BMW i5 M60: Key attractions/reasons to buy

• Modern tech: The sheer amount of technology packing into this beast is mind-blowing. From the 8.5 OS to the clever rear-wheel steering, to the electric powertrain and torque distribution capabilities, it is the most advanced 5 Series ever.
• Interior build quality: No rattles or squeaks, and very few areas that contain ‘cheap’ plastics. It is a sublime interior.
• AWD performance: Obviously crazy-fast in a straight line, but in the corners it rips holes in the tarmac with its clever torque distribution system.

2024 BMW i5 M60: Key considerations before you buy

• Heavy: This is a whopping 479kg heavier than the M550i V8 predecessor. That’s going to cost you in tyres, and handling.
• Design: The 5 Series was always such a refined and stately package. Now it’s… well it’s a subjective thing so we’ll leave that up to you. But technically, the new ‘melted’ theme isn’t any slipperier; the drag coefficient of 0.23 is the same as the previous-gen 5 Series.
• Price: Priced from around $220,000, it is just way too high for what you’re getting – it doesn’t seem like $66,000 more car than the previous M550i.