How The BMW i5 M60 Just Made The BMW M5 Obsolete

Imagine casting a prediction about half a century ago that electric vehicles would eventually replace ICE cars. You’d likely have been met with dismissive chuckles and “Pff, that’s impossible. And, pass me whatever you’re having.” Yet, it’s funny to note that there was a time in the late 1800s when EVs were actually outselling both gasoline and steam-powered vehicles in the U.S. Yep, you read that right. Today, we all know that gas cars dominate the industry and have done so for decades without much competition. This is entirely understandable, as there are many reasons to love and gravitate towards ICE vehicles, ranging from faster refueling times and unlimited tuning capabilities to a superior driving range and even the sweet sound and feel of an ICE engine.

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However, the popularity of electric vehicles is growing with each passing year. Frequently heralded as the future of transportation, EVs are effectively addressing (more like hitting out of the park) all those concerns skeptics once threw around for fun. In fact, we’re witnessing the advent of quieter, faster, and more refined zero-emission electric cars. So much so that many EVs are taking the place of their ICE counterparts. Case in point, the 2024 BMW i5 M60, which has tremendous potential (which, in itself, is an understatement) to not only make the BMW M5 obsolete but also to inject fresh momentum into the EV revolution. This is not an over-exaggeration. For there are solid reasons why the BMW i5 M60 surpasses the gas-fired M5.

Related: The 2024 BMW i5 Won’t Scare The Tesla Model S, But That’s Okay

BMW i5 M60 Dominates As The Unrivaled Powerhouse Of The 5 Series

BMW

Front shot of a red BMW i5 M60 xDrive on the road 

Thanks to our unshakable optimism (crazy us), we believe the 2024 BMW i5 is poised to usher in a fresh chapter for the German automaker. BMW has indeed embraced the electrification trend in the 5 Series, scoring a home run with the i5 M60 xDrive. Even though the RWD i5 eDrive40 packs a punch with 335 horsepower, 295 pound-feet of torque, and a range nearing 300 miles, it’s the sportier M60 xDrive that’s grabbing all the headlines as the most potent member of the new 5 Series sedan lineup. The powertrain of the i5 M60 comes with a dual-motor configuration that delivers an astonishing total output of 590 horsepower and 586 pound-feet of torque.With such compelling figures, the i5 M60 effortlessly sprints from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, thus securing its spot as the fastest 5 Series until the debut of the next M5. You’ll find M-Level Performance in this EV, and there’s also a Sport Boost mode for an additional 18 pound-feet of torque.

The top speed of the BMW i5 M60 is electronically limited to 144 mph. Taking a look at the performance features of the M60, you’ll find it’s not just about straight-line speed. BMW has confidently pitched it as a highly responsive EV in all driving conditions. The electric powertrain delivers instant torque, complemented by a well-engineered chassis and responsive steering, according to the automaker. There’s also the rear-axle steering that adjusts up to 2.5 degrees, which is bound to increase agility.

Comparatively, the BMW M5’s twin-turbo V-8 engine, combined with an all-wheel-drive, offers 600 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. But it’s worth noting that this comes at a premium price point of close to $110,000 for the 2023 model. In contrast, the high-octane i5 M60, bursting with performance and innovative features, comes with a more attractive price tag of $85,750. Dare we say; it represents a compelling argument for those considering a move to electrified driving.

Related: Here’s Why The i5 Is Exactly The EV BMW Needed To Succeed

BMW i5 M60’s Impressive Range Meets Exquisite Responsiveness

BMW

Front three-quarters shot of a red 2024 BMW i5 M60 xDrive

The adrenaline-fueled performance of the M60 xDrive admittedly affects its range, bringing it down to a still impressive 256 miles. However, the trade-off between breathtaking speed and range seems like a small compromise for such dynamism. Besides, the M60 is fitted with a bigger 84.3 kWh battery pack, and charging this exquisite beast is a breeze as it can surge from 10 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes. The model is equipped with a flexible fast charger compatible with both 120V and 240V outlets. And to top it off, you’ll receive two years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America stations.

Related: Here’s Why BMW Dominates The Luxury Car Market Today

The BMW i5 M60 Impeccably Fuses Futuristic Style And Technology

BMW

Profile shot of a red BMW i5 M60 xDrive 

While the BMW M5 represents a potent blend of power and style, it runs the “inevitable” risk of appearing dated in the not-too-distant future. For instance, one has to admit that its design is elegant but conservative compared to some of its competitors. That’s why BMW wanted a vehicle that delicately fuses the cherished BMW heritage with the pulse of cutting-edge design. And, this is where the BMW i5 M60 xDrive has struck gold. This sophisticated EV sedan doesn’t have any polarizing design elements and the most beautiful thing is that it has a harmonious balance between classic and contemporary aesthetics. It has a sporty, aggressive design with a sculpted hood and integrated door handles to stand out from other 5 Series models and win the hearts of many BMW enthusiasts. The front of the M60 has dual LED headlights and an upgraded version of the BMW’s iconic kidney grille with cameras and sensors for driver assistance systems. You’ll notice that the front bumper has wide ventilation openings, which is not something very common among electric models.

And the moment you settle into the i5 M60, you enter a spacious, high-end cabin filled with top-quality materials, ambient lighting, and the latest tech. The dashboard is home to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a generous 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. These aren’t just screens; they’re your gateway to a plethora of convenient features. You get intuitive controls, gesture recognition, regular over-the-air updates, and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And tying it all together is BMW’s advanced iDrive 8.5 Operating System for enhanced user experience. Heck, you can even play games!

Among the fresh additions to the 5 Series is BMW’s optional Driving Assistance Professional package, featuring the advanced Highway Assistant. This feature takes driving comfort to a new level, allowing drivers to enjoy hands-free driving at speeds of up to 85 mph (subject to speed limits and conditions) as long as their eyes stay on the road ahead. What sets this package apart is its state-of-the-art eye monitoring system. This feature is designed for supreme convenience, eliminating the need for a turn signal to initiate an automatic lane change. Instead, a simple glance at the side view mirror is enough to cue the EV to shift lanes, provided it’s safe to do so. Are you taking note, Tesla?

The BMW M5 May Have Found Its Successor

BMW

Rear three-quarter shot of the 2023 BMW i5 M60 xDrive

Does the all-electric BMW i5 M60 have what it takes to stand the test of time? Only time will tell, but it looks super promising right now. So, mark your calendars because the 2024 BMW i5 M60 is destined to hit dealerships in October 2023. We’re excited because it gracefully meets expectations in performance, luxurious styling, and affordability. Such a compelling blend of features will surely attract buyers considering the BMW M5, enticing them towards this innovative, eco-friendly, and money-saving alternative. Indeed, the i5 M60 could be the catalyst that BMW — and the broader EV revolution — needs. While it might cast a shadow on the BMW M5, making it seem less appealing or even obsolete, this isn’t a point of lament but rather one of celebration. We strongly believe that embracing such progress is the very essence of innovation. And, in this spirit, we welcome the arrival of the 2024 BMW i5 M60.