2024 BMW i5: A Carimports.co.ke Review
The Big Picture
The 2024 BMW i5 is the electric business sedan that traditionalists have been waiting for. Origin: Germany (Dingolfing). First Generation: Launched in 2023 as part of the G60 5 Series lineup. Current Generation: 1st Generation (G60E). Unlike the Mercedes EQE which looks like a jelly bean, the i5 looks exactly like a standard 5 Series. It is built on the same flexible CLAR platform, offering the perfect blend of traditional luxury and electric performance without shouting "I am an EV."
Quick Specs
Powertrain Options
Two distinct personalities:
- i5 eDrive40 (RWD): 335 HP / 400 Nm. STANDARD The sensible choice. It offers the longest range (up to 582km WLTP) and classic rear-wheel-drive BMW balance. It is plenty fast for Kenyan highways.
- i5 M60 xDrive (AWD): 593 HP / 820 Nm. The M5 alternative. It hits 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. It comes with M-specific suspension and styling, but the range drops to approx 516km.
Interior & Practicality
- Interaction Bar: A crystalline backlit bar spans the dashboard, housing touch controls for ventilation and hazards. It looks like jewelry and changes color with driving modes.
- Vegan Interior: The "Veganza" leather-free interior is standard and feels softer than traditional Sensatec. Rear space is generous, though the floor is slightly high due to the battery.
Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs
- Charging: Supports 205kW DC charging (10-80% in 30 mins). AC charging is up to 22kW (optional), which is twice as fast as most rivals on a compatible wallbox.
- Service: As an EV, it requires less maintenance than a 520i. No oil changes, no spark plugs. Air suspension (rear axle on eDrive40, all-round on M60) is the main long-term wear item.
Suitability for Kenyan Roads
Low Center of Gravity: The battery pack gives it immense stability. Ground clearance is typical for a sedan (approx 136mm), so care is needed on speed bumps. The M60's 20-inch wheels are prone to damage on potholes; the eDrive40's 19-inch options are safer.
Prices for 2024 BMW i5 for Sale in Kenya
The following prices represent the cost of buying a 2024 BMW i5 (First Edition Imports) in Kenya. These prices reflect showroom asking prices in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
| Trim Level | Import Cost (Approx) | Showroom Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| i5 eDrive40 | Ksh 13.5M | Ksh 15.5M | Ksh 2.0M |
| i5 M60 xDrive | Ksh 16.5M | Ksh 18.5M | Ksh 2.0M |
The Ci Verdict
Who is this for? The executive who wants the latest tech and green credentials but doesn't want to drive a spaceship. Who is it NOT for? Those who do 600km+ daily trips without stopping—the diesel 520d is still king there.
