2026 BMW i5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2026 BMW i5 gets a light update led by more efficient electric-drive systems in the eDrive40 and xDrive40, giving both trims more estimated range. It is not a redesign.
About the 2026 BMW i5
1st i5 generation / current 5 Series generation, third model year; minor efficiency update year.
BMW positions the i5 as the all-electric version of the 5 Series sedan. Its role is to give buyers a traditional midsize luxury sedan shape, a modern digital cabin, and strong everyday comfort while adding smooth electric power. Compared with many EV rivals, the i5 is sold less as a futuristic experiment and more as a familiar premium sport sedan that happens to be fully electric.
The rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 remains the everyday, range-focused i5, while the dual-motor xDrive40 adds AWD and quicker response. Both have a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 14.9-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The performance-focused M60 stands apart with 593 horsepower, AWD, M Sport brakes, and an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
What changed, by category
2026 BMW i5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Dual AC Electric Motors | AC Electric Motor | Dual AC Electric Motors |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear | Single-Speed Fixed Gear |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 389 hp | |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 435 lb-ft | |
| Trunk/Cargo | 17.3 cu-ft | 17.3 cu-ft | 17.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.5 in | 36.5 in | 36.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 266–277 | 310 | 278 |
| MPGe Combined | 99 | 110 | 98 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Head-Up Display | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2026 BMW i5 redesigned?
No. The 2026 BMW i5 is a light update to the existing generation, with its basic body, cabin design, and display layout carrying over.
Which 2026 BMW i5 trims received efficiency updates?
The 2026 eDrive40 and xDrive40 received efficiency-focused electric-drive updates. The rear-wheel-drive eDrive40 reaches an estimated 310 miles, while the AWD xDrive40 reaches an estimated 278 miles.
Is the 2026 BMW i5 worth considering over the 2025 model?
The 2026 model is most compelling for shoppers who value extra range or updated charging hardware. The eDrive40 gains 15 miles of estimated range, the xDrive40 gains 12 miles, LED headlights become standard, and the M60 gets a native NACS charge port.
Does the 2026 BMW i5 have a native NACS charge port?
The 2026 BMW i5 M60 has a native NACS charge port. It connects directly to compatible Tesla Supercharger hardware without requiring a separate physical adapter.
Are LED headlights standard on the 2026 BMW i5?
Yes. LED headlights are standard across the 2026 BMW i5 lineup; they were optional for the prior model year.