Tag: BMW i5 LWB launch date

BMW India is gearing up for its biggest electric vehicle (EV) launch of the year. After the massive success of the petrol-powered 5 Series Long Wheelbase, the German carmaker is all set to launch its electric twin—the BMW i5 Long Wheelbase (LWB)—in early 2026.

According to recent reports, the i5 LWB will be the highlight of BMW’s “2026 Product Offensive,” which includes six new model launches. This electric luxury sedan is expected to hit Indian showrooms by February or March 2026.

Here is everything you need to know about this upcoming luxury EV.

Why is the BMW i5 LWB Special?

In India, car buyers love “Long Wheelbase” (LWB) models because they offer extra legroom for rear-seat passengers. BMW noticed this trend and successfully launched the petrol 5 Series LWB last year. Now, they are bringing the same comfort to the electric segment.

The i5 LWB is often called the “Baby i7” because it borrows many high-end features from BMW’s flagship electric car, the i7, but at a lower price point. It will likely be locally assembled at BMW’s Chennai plant to keep prices competitive.

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Design and Interior Features

The i5 LWB looks nearly identical to the standard 5 Series but features distinct “i” badging and a closed-off kidney grille.

• Rear Seat Comfort: The biggest selling point is the backseat. It offers unmatched legroom, reclining seats, and soft pillows on the headrests.
• Tech-Loaded Cabin: The dashboard is dominated by the BMW Curved Display (a 12.3-inch driver screen joined with a 14.9-inch infotainment screen).
• Luxury Touches: Expect vegan leather upholstery (Veganza), a panoramic glass roof, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
• No “Theatre Screen”: unlike the expensive i7, the i5 LWB might skip the massive 31-inch rear theatre screen to keep costs in check, though rear entertainment tablets might be offered.

Battery, Range, and Performance

The India-spec BMW i5 LWB is expected to come in the eDrive40 variant.

• Battery Pack: It will likely house an 81.2 kWh battery.
• Range: On a full charge, the car is expected to deliver a claimed range of 500 to 582 km (WLTP cycle). In Indian real-world conditions, this should translate to a solid 400-450 km.
• Power: The rear-mounted motor produces around 335 bhp and 430 Nm of torque, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in roughly 6 seconds.
• Charging: It supports DC fast charging up to 205 kW, which can top up the battery from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.

Expected Price and Rivals

BMW is expected to price the i5 LWB aggressively to take on the Mercedes-Benz EQE.

• Estimated Price: ₹90 Lakh to ₹1.10 Crore (Ex-showroom).
• Launch Timeline: Bookings are expected to open in February 2026.

What Else is Coming from BMW in 2026?

Apart from the i5 LWB, BMW India has confirmed a busy year ahead with 10 upcoming products (including updates).

• BMW iX Facelift: An update to the popular electric SUV with better range and AI features.
• New MINI Models: The MINI Cooper SE and Countryman are also slated for updates later this year.
• BMW iX3: The next-generation “Neue Klasse” EV SUV is expected to make its debut towards the end of 2026 or early 2027.

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