BMW is set to launch the new 5 Series in India, including both petrol and diesel variants in long-wheelbase (LWB) versions. Alongside these, the all-electric BMW i5 will also make its launch, featuring a shorter wheelbase(SWB). By providing a variety of alternatives in the luxury sedan sector BMW hopes to be responsive to a variety of market groups and client preferences.
BMW 5 Series LWB and i5 Variants
The new BMW 5 Series LWB, currently available only in China, will be introduced in India with a wheelbase of 3,105mm, making it 145mm longer than the regular 5 Series. However, the BMW i5 will be imported in its standard wheelbase guise, as BMW does not have a right-hand drive (RHD) version of the i5 LWB globally. This decision is driven by the expected lower sales volume of the i5 compared to the petrol or diesel variants, making local assembly of a converted RHD model impractical.
Local Assembly and Market Strategy
BMW will locally assemble the LWB RHD version of the 5 Series ICE variants in India, aiming for competitive pricing against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Long-wheelbase sedans are popular in India especially among professional buyers who value the added legroom. This move aligns with BMW's strategy to offer a diverse range of options customized to the Indian market's preferences and demands.
Luxurious Features and Design
The BMW 5 Series LWB will offer features like reclining rear seats, four-zone climate control, leather seating with exclusive patterning, and an optional 31.1-inch entertainment screen. Visually, the LWB and standard wheelbase models are similar, with the LWB version distinguished by an illuminated '5' on the C-pillar. These luxury elements are expected to appeal to buyers seeking a premium and comfortable driving experience.
Powertrain Options
The BMW 5-Series LWB will be offered in 530Li spec in India, powered by a 255hp, 400Nm, twin-turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. The all-electric i5 is expected to arrive in eDrive40 appearance, featuring a 340hp, rear axle-mounted motor driven by an 81.2kWh battery pack. BMW claims a maximum range of 582km for this version serving the growing demand for electric vehicles in the Indian market.
Launch and Competition
The BMW 5 Series LWB will compete directly with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the petrol-only Audi A6, expected to be priced in the Rs 70 lakh to Rs 80 lakh range. It is set to be launched during the festive season this year 2024, coinciding with the E-Class's next-generation model launch in India. The BMW i5, positioned as a premium electric offering, is likely to be priced at a significant premium over its ICE sibling, possibly exceeding the Rs 1 crore mark, due to its status as an import.
BMW is committed to providing a wide range of options to meet the needs of various consumer preferences and market categories as evidenced by its decision to launch the new 5 Series and i5 models in India. Offering a combination of performance, luxury, and sustainability. BMW hopes to strengthen its position in the luxury sedan market in India with the introduction of the 5 Series LWB and the all-electric i5. BMW's strategic approach to product offerings shows its vision for India's mobility future as the automotive sector moves towards electric mobility.