BMW i5 eDrive40 vs BMW 520i — full comparison

BMW i5 eDrive40

Sedan · Electric · FWD

BMW 520i

Sedan · Gasoline · FWD

Car A

BMW i5 eDrive40

The BMW i5 eDrive40 is a premium electric saloon that blends long range with strong performance for road trips and daily use. Its high price and FWD layout may not suit shoppers prioritizing low cost or classic rear-drive dynamics.

5 seatsSedanElectric5-star safety340 hpElectric

Car B

BMW 520i

The BMW 520i is an efficient five-seat saloon that suits road trips and growing families. Its balanced performance and 530 L boot make it good value in its segment.

5 seatsSedanGasoline5-star safety

Why compared performance gapdifferent powertrainsame body typesame brandsame seats

Usage fit

Family 56 / 63

City 32 / 37

Budget / value 19 / 54

Road trip 65 / 64

Performance 32 / 33

Cargo 31 / 29

Practical 24 / 46

Premium 63 / 57

Winter 30 / 30

Scores out of 100. Blue = BMW i5 eDrive40 · Orange = BMW 520i

Specs side-by-side

Spec BMW i5 eDrive40 BMW 520i

Values are representative — confirm for your market and trim.

Pros & cons

BMW i5 eDrive40

561 km range supports long highway stints between charges
560 L trunk and five seats suit growing families and luggage
340 hp, 430 Nm and 5.7 s 0-100 km/h enable confident overtakes
Premium positioning with strong safety signals
Premium price of 67,500 may exceed tighter budgets
FWD layout may not appeal to drivers seeking rear- or all-wheel-drive feel
Saloon body’s separate boot limits cargo flexibility versus open-load designs
Focus on comfort, range and refinement over maximal practicality for bulky gear

BMW 520i

Efficient for its class at 6 L/100 km, ideal for long-distance driving
530 L trunk handles family luggage for holidays and weekends
Adequate pace for highways (184 hp, 0–100 km/h in 7.9 s, 235 km/h top speed)
At about 55,000, it represents good value in its segment
Saloon body limits loading flexibility for bulky items despite the volume
Front-wheel drive may not suit buyers seeking AWD confidence for harsh winters
Moderate acceleration; not for those prioritizing punchy performance
Price may exceed tighter family-sedan budgets

Verdict

Pick BMW i5 eDrive40 if…

Efficiency & everyday ease

BMW i5 eDrive40 is the choice if fuel economy and city-friendly driving are your priority.

Pick BMW 520i if…

Performance & capability

BMW 520i is the choice if you want more power, speed, or all-weather capability.

Usage fit

Specs side-by-side

Pros & cons

BMW i5 eDrive40

BMW 520i

Verdict

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