BMW has expanded its electric luxury sedan portfolio in India with the new i5 Long Wheelbase (LWB). Designed specifically to offer greater rear-seat space and a more comfort-focused driving experience, the i5 LWB combines the premium character of the 5 Series with an all-electric powertrain.

Priced at ₹79.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the BMW i5 LWB is locally assembled at BMW's Chennai facility, making it the brand's first locally produced electric sedan in India.

BMW i5 LWB: Spacious and Comfortable

One of the biggest highlights of the i5 LWB is its stretched body and longer wheelbase. Measuring 5,175mm in length with a 3,105mm wheelbase, the electric sedan offers generous cabin space, particularly for rear passengers.

The longer wheelbase makes the i5 LWB well suited to buyers who prefer to be chauffeured. The rear cabin provides ample legroom, while the premium interior combines modern technology with a familiar BMW layout.

The India-spec model also gets features such as a panoramic glass roof, four-zone climate control, powered and ventilated front seats, ambient lighting and a premium 17-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

Strong Electric Performance

The BMW i5 LWB uses an 81.6 kWh battery pack paired with a single rear-mounted electric motor. The powertrain produces around 268 hp and 410 Nm, sending power to the rear wheels.

BMW claims a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.7 seconds, which gives the large luxury sedan surprisingly strong performance despite its focus on comfort.

The claimed 669 km MIDC range is another major advantage for buyers looking for a premium EV suitable for both city use and longer journeys. The i5 LWB also supports 160kW DC fast charging.

Comfort Comes Before Sportiness

Despite carrying the BMW badge, the i5 LWB has been tuned more towards comfort than outright driving sharpness. Its suspension setup and increased ground clearance are designed to better handle Indian road conditions.

The car retains a rear-wheel-drive layout and near 50:50 weight distribution, but the softer suspension means it does not feel as aggressively sporty as some traditional BMW sedans. Instead, the i5 LWB delivers a more relaxed and refined driving experience while still offering quick acceleration.

Feature-Rich Luxury Cabin

The i5 LWB gets a technology-packed cabin with BMW's curved display setup, a 14.9-inch infotainment screen and 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available.

Safety equipment includes eight airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, TPMS, ISOFIX mounts and advanced driver-assistance features.

BMW i5 LWB Verdict

The BMW i5 LWB is a different take on the electric luxury sedan. Instead of focusing solely on outright performance, BMW has prioritised rear-seat comfort, spaciousness, refinement and long-distance usability.

Its 669 km claimed range, quick acceleration, premium cabin and locally assembled status make it an attractive option in India's luxury EV market. While enthusiasts may find its softer setup less engaging than older-generation BMW sedans, buyers looking for a comfortable, fast and premium electric executive sedan should find the i5 LWB a compelling package.