Cover BMW Group Malaysia recently unveiled its latest line of the iconic BMW 5 Series in the city
BMW Group Malaysia recently unveiled its latest line of the iconic BMW 5 Series in the city
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BMW’s iconic 5 Series gets an electric upgrade with the launch of the i5, a sleek, high-performance sedan that promises to redefine what it means to drive in style and luxury
In a dazzling display of automotive prowess, BMW Group Malaysia recently unveiled its latest masterpiece—the new BMW 5 Series—at the SKY5PACE event in Kuala Lumpur. Against the backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline, the week-long customer showcase highlighted the sedan’s diverse powertrain offerings, including the all-electric i5 eDrive40 M Sport, the 520i M Sport which is the fully electric, and the i5 eDrive40 M Sport with optional M Performance Parts.
Benjamin Nagel, managing director of BMW Group Malaysia, emphasised the 5 Series’ legacy: “Since its 1972 debut, the BMW 5 Series has reigned supreme in the premium executive sedan segment, both globally and in Malaysia.”
Above Sashi Ambi, corporate communications director, BMW Group Malaysia
Sashi Ambi, corporate communications director, BMW Group Malaysia
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Above The all new BMW i5
The all new BMW i5
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As part of the launch, BMW arrange for us to have a driving experience with the i5, which included a city convoy and dynamic driving exercises that highlighted the sedan’s capabilities. Our journey started from SKY5PACE, winding through Kuala Lumpur before hitting the highway towards Plaza Arkadia in Desa Parkcity. There, we navigated slalom courses, lane-change exercises, and brake tests, demonstrating the i5’s agility and precision.
A city convoy drive to test out the BMW i5
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Step inside the i5, and you’re immediately greeted by a cabin that’s a masterclass in minimalist luxury. Its cabin is clean and minimalist, featuring a driver-oriented BMW Curved Display that anchors much of the vehicle’s functions. The digital experience is powered by BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 which features an array of digital innovations such as the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and BMW Maps as navigation tool. The addition of Iconic Sounds Electric, composed by renowned artist Hans Zimmer, underscores BMW’s attention to sensory detail.
Above The interior of the BMW i5 features sleek and futuristic styling
The interior of the BMW i5 features sleek and futuristic styling
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Despite its futuristic vibe, the i5 doesn’t compromise on comfort. Premium materials and an intuitive layout create a space that feels both luxurious and durable—built for long journeys as much as for first impressions.
On the outside, the i5 stays true to BMW’s signature styling. The LED headlight and “Sharknose” grille give it a sleek yet athletic stance. But it’s the rear design where the car truly shines—the streamlined lines and modern taillights create a striking, seductive silhouette that turns heads wherever it goes.
The driving exercises took place at Plaza Arkadia in Desa Parkcity
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When it comes to the driving experience, the i5 retains the hallmark BMW traits—smooth, precise, and undeniably exhilarating. Despite being an EV, the i5 handles like the best of its ICE counterparts. Agile and responsive, it takes on corners effortlessly, with a lightness that belies its electric drivetrain. The car glides through city streets and highways alike, delivering a performance that’s both fun and practical, perfectly embodying BMW’s iconic “sport sedan” ethos.
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Equipped with 340 horsepower and a top speed of 193 km/h, this electric sedan can unleash thrilling acceleration, especially with the “Boost” paddle for an instant surge of power. It has a range of up to 582 km, making it an ideal companion for long-distance drives. The battery placement ensures excellent balance, giving you the confidence to tackle every twist and turn.
BMW has introduced a unique approach to driving modes in the i5. Beyond the standard Sport and Efficient modes, the i5 offers a series of “profiles” like Expressive, Relax, and even Digital Art, adding a new dimension to the driving experience. In Relax mode, special settings ensure relaxing driving. In Expressive mode, your BMW has an expressive appearance in the interior. For those conscious of range, the Max Range toggle under the Efficient mode can extend the vehicle’s reach by up to 25 per cent, limiting speed and power while deactivating certain comfort features.
Nadia Heng
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The day concluded back at SKY5PACE with a celebratory launch event. Tatler friends joined the festivities, which featured delectable canapés, refreshing drinks, and live band performances—a fitting end to a day that showcased the future of luxury motoring.
For more information, visit BMW’s website.
Credits
Images: BMW Group Malaysia
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Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.
As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.
Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb
