BMW i5 vs Ford Explorer
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | BMW i5 | Ford Explorer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 601 | 400 | +50.3% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 820 | 563 | +45.6% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Electric | Petrol | — |
| Transmission | Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $107,460 | $57,200 | +87.9% |
- BMW i5 makes about 50% more power (601 vs 400 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (Germany and US); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: i5 or Explorer?
BMW i5 advantages
- Engine power (+33%)
- Pulling torque (+31%)
Ford Explorer advantages
- Affordability (+47%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the BMW i5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Ford Explorer if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the BMW i5 if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
Ford Explorer delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
BMW i5 vs Ford Explorer: which should you choose?
BMW i5 (2024 M60 xDrive) — electric sedan with 601 hp and 820 Nm, rated at 18.2 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $107,460 in the Germany market.
Ford Explorer (2026 ST AWD) — petrol suv with 400 hp and 563 Nm, rated at 8.5 km/L, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $57,200 in the US market.
BMW i5 vs Ford Explorer: BMW i5 is more powerful. BMW i5 makes about 50% more power (601 vs 400 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The BMW i5 is the more powerful, at 601 hp against 400 hp, with 820 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Electric vs Petrol), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
BMW i5 is rated 5 stars by Euro NCAP and Ford Explorer 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Ford Explorer lists lower at about $57,200 (USD-converted from the US market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BMW i5 better than the Ford Explorer?
BMW i5 takes the overall edge, though Ford Explorer wins in specific areas worth weighing. BMW i5 makes about 50% more power (601 vs 400 hp).
What is the main difference between the BMW i5 and the Ford Explorer?
BMW i5 makes about 50% more power (601 vs 400 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Electric vs Petrol), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Ford Explorer delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the BMW i5 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the Ford Explorer if you want the lower upfront cost.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.