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Starting MSRP
Sustainable Leather
Horsepower
Touchscreen
Battery Range
For Normal drivers looking to make the switch to an all-electric luxury sedan, there’s a familiar model that’s also made the switch: the BMW 5 has returned as an electric vehicle in autumn, 2023: the BMW i5. It’s slated to be a tough competitor against the 2023 Tesla Model S. How do BMW vs. Tesla compare? We think that, once you look past the extraneous details of the Telsa, you’ll definitely see why the BMW i5 is a smarter choice for the way you drive in Decatur. Take a look at how a BMW electric car vs. Tesla compare, and when you’re ready, custom-build a BMW i5 to match the way you drive in Urbana.
With over $20,000 separating their base-level starting prices, the BMW definitely wins this round with a price that’s on par for a luxury electric sedan. The BMW i5 has a starting MSRP of $66,800, while the Tesla is an eye-popping $88,490. Once you see what you get for your money, we’re sure the BMW i5 will be even more appealing to you.
When talking about electric vehicles, power is one of the key points. Both of these sedans have engines that generate the kind of power that’s more useful on the racetrack than when you’re running errands in Bloomington. While at its highest the Tesla can generate over 1,000 hp, you’d likely be spending that extra $20,000 on nothing more than bragging rights. The BMW i5 generates up to 590 hp, which is pretty exhilarating.
The other power we need to check is battery power: how do BMW vs. Tesla compare in terms of electric battery range? The BMW boasts a respectable 295 miles per full battery charge. That’s a drive to Chicago and back. While the Tesla does have an exceptionally high range—405 miles—is it worth an extra $21,000?
It’s no secret that BMW has worked for decades to perfect the luxury sedan interior, and it shows in the BMW i5, especially when compared to the rather bare-bones interior of the Tesla Model S. BMW brings the environmentally friendly ethos of electric vehicles into the cabin with supple recycled leather surfaces. Tesla sticks to the conventionally-treated version. The one thing in the Tesla cabin that does get attention is its “cinematic” 17-inch touchscreen that offers vehicle controls, but the company touts as being perfect for movies and video games. If you’re not ready for that level of entertainment while driving, the BMW’s 14.9-inch touchscreen will be just right.
Ready to make the leap to electric? It’s easy with a BMW i5 from BMW of Bloomington! While pre-orders have closed, you can custom build your BMW i5. Some models will be released for sale when pre-orders arrive. In the meantime, check our BMW information hub to learn more about the BMW i5 or contact us with your questions.