BMW i5

Importing a used BMW i5 from the USA

The i5 is the fully electric version of BMW's eighth-generation 5 Series (chassis code G60), sold alongside the petrol and plug-in-hybrid models rather than as a separate car. It launched for the 2024 model year and quickly became a common sight in US EV-friendly markets, which means early lease returns are now reaching the used market with low mileage and strong equipment. USCar Trader arranges these as an independent broker for used US vehicles: no stock of our own, no vehicle margin and no manufacturer tie. If you want to import a used BMW i5 from the USA, this page covers the American-market versions and the steps involved.

Model history: years and generations

The i5 belongs to the current G60 5 Series generation introduced in 2023 for Europe and 2024 for North America. It is a single generation so far, with the meaningful choices being the rear-drive eDrive40, the all-wheel-drive xDrive40 added slightly later, and the performance i5 M60 xDrive. Europe also gets an i5 Touring estate, but US cars are sedans only, so importers should not expect a wagon from the American market. BMW builds the i5 in Dingolfing, Germany.

Engines, transmissions and drive

Every i5 is electric, drawing on a battery of roughly 84 kWh gross (about 81 kWh usable). The eDrive40 uses a single rear motor for around 335 hp and rear-wheel drive; the M60 xDrive adds a front motor for dual-motor all-wheel drive and up to roughly 590 hp in boost, cutting 0-60 mph to the high-three-second range. DC fast charging peaks near 205 kW, and AC charging runs up to 11 kW. All versions use a single-speed transmission and BMW's adaptive recuperation, which eases off regen when the road ahead is clear.

Equipment lines and body styles

US i5s are four-door sedans in familiar BMW structure: the eDrive40 and xDrive40 in standard and M Sport guises, and the M60 xDrive at the top. Standard equipment is generous, with the curved display running iDrive 8.5, the interaction bar, adaptive LED lighting and a broad suite of driver assistance. Options of note include the Highway Assistant hands-free system, air-suspension-equipped adaptive chassis on some cars, Bowers & Wilkins audio, rear-axle steering and ventilated seats. M60 cars add stronger brakes, unique styling and the full power figures.

The US used market

The i5 sold well in coastal and metro EV markets, so supply on the used side is healthier than for many new EVs. Most examples are 2024 cars with low mileage, frequently former leases with complete histories and rich option lists. As with any recent BMW EV, confirm the software is up to date, check for closed recalls, and request a battery state-of-health reading; given the low mileage these usually read close to new.

Is an import right for you?

The i5 suits a buyer who wants an executive electric sedan that still drives like a 5 Series, with the option of genuine M60 performance. It is a strong long-distance cruiser thanks to its refinement and driver-assistance suite. It is less relevant to buyers who need an estate or maximum range, since rivals stretch further on a charge; the i5's appeal is balance, comfort and brand-typical dynamics.

Specs at a glance

Common issues buyers should know

The i5 is early in its life, so the reliability picture is short, and the recurring themes are software rather than mechanical. Owners have reported occasional iDrive 8.5 glitches, connectivity drops and the odd need for a software reset, most of which BMW addresses over the air or at the dealer. A 12-volt battery that ran flat while a car sat unsold is worth checking, as is even tyre wear given the sedan's weight and torque. The electric drivetrain itself is simple and low-maintenance; the main ongoing costs are tyres, brake fluid and cabin filters rather than engine servicing.

Differences from the European version

US i5s use a CCS1 or NACS charge port depending on build, miles and Fahrenheit displays, amber rear indicators and no rear fog lamp. Some connected services and map regions are US-locked and may need updating. There is no US Touring estate, so American stock is sedan only. Lighting aim, RF banding and eCall differ from EU spec and form part of the conversion. Mechanically it is the same G60 platform sold worldwide, keeping the work predictable.

Import step by step

The route is the same for any US car: pick a specific vehicle, verify the VIN and build plant, place funds in escrow, book ocean freight to a port such as Bremerhaven, clear customs, complete the TUEV individual approval (Einzelabnahme), then register. USCar Trader handles sourcing, verification and logistics while you keep the final purchase decision.

Customs and taxes: what applies

Remember: no origin proof, no 0% duty – and 19% German import VAT is due on every import.

The i5 is listed with neutral origin, so the import duty depends on the actual plant of your specific car, which the VIN reveals. The i5 is built in Dingolfing, Germany, so a typical US-market car is EU-origin and would not qualify for the 0% US-origin rate under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461; only a car with provable US build and direct transport can access that rate. Separately from any duty, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) always applies to the customs value. We never describe any import as duty-free or guaranteed, and we add no margin to official charges.

Modifications and single-vehicle approval

Plan for the standard conversion: fitting a rear fog lamp, adjusting or replacing headlights for right-hand traffic, verifying indicator behaviour, and documenting the odometer in kilometres. The individual approval also reviews the high-voltage and charging documentation. Once the TUEV certificate is issued, local registration is routine.

What to verify before buying

Before buying a used i5: confirm the full VIN and decode the plant; obtain a Carfax or AutoCheck report for accidents, title and lease history; request a battery state-of-health reading; verify a clean (non-salvage) title; confirm all recalls and software updates are closed; check charge-port type and that cables and any adapters are present; and inspect wheels and tyres for kerb damage and even wear.

Common questions

Can I import a used BMW i5 from the USA to Germany?

Yes. With early leases returning to the US market, a used i5 can be sourced, shipped and registered in Germany through the individual approval process.

Does the i5 qualify for 0% import duty?

Only with provable US origin. US-market i5s are built in Dingolfing, Germany, so most are EU-origin and do not qualify; the VIN plant code is decisive.

Is German import VAT charged on top?

Yes. The 19% Einfuhrumsatzsteuer always applies to the customs value, separately from any duty.

What is the i5's range?

The eDrive40 carries an EPA estimate around 295 miles; the M60 is a little lower, and real-world figures depend on climate, wheels and driving style.

How fast does the i5 charge?

DC fast charging peaks near 205 kW, and AC charging runs up to 11 kW, giving a practical fast-charge stop of roughly half an hour for the bulk of the battery.

Can I get an i5 Touring from the USA?

No. The US market received the sedan only; the i5 Touring estate is a European-market body style.

Is the i5 reliable?

It is early days, but reported issues are mostly software-related and addressed by updates; the electric drivetrain is mechanically simple and low-maintenance.

Explore more in the BMW in the Carhub, compare the related BMW i4, BMW iX and BMW 5 Series, or view current i5 listings.