With BMW already working on a new mid-cycle 5-Series and the electric i5, a lot of tuning companies are already rushing to make some adjustments to the current models. It is also the case of German-based tuner AC Schnitzer, which worked its magic on the present i5. The German tuner has released images of a modified i5 that leans into visual upgrades rather than mechanical changes. No extra power. No software trickery. Just presence.
Exterior
Up front, there’s a new splitter. It works together with matching side skirts and two different rear spoilers. Touring models get their own rear spoiler variation. All of these pieces are developed for i5 models equipped with the M Sport package — an important detail, since that version already carries a sportier bumper as standard.
If subtle isn’t the goal, stripe decals can be added along the sides. However, the real visual shift comes from the car`s wheels. Three design choices are offered, with sizes from 19 to 21 inches. The ones seen on this i5 are wearing AC3 FlowForming 21-inch alloys with a five-double-spoke layout. We can also see red brake calipers, which perfectly contrast the darker finish.
The stance changes, too, thanks to the newly-installed lowering springs which reduce the i5’s ride by 20 to 25 mm. Wheel spacers also push the track width out by 20 mm. It doesn’t transform the car — but it grounds it. Visually, at least.
Performance
AC Schnitzer has left the engine and power intact, meaning that the i5 M60 in question is powered by two dual motors with an impressive 593 horsepower and 820 Nm of torque.
AC Schnitzer appears to consider that sufficient. Performance upgrades for the EV aren’t part of the plan, with engine-focused development reserved for combustion models, including the upcoming M5.
Prices Involved
All these new body upgrades come at a cost. However, we can’t consider much of an effort to pay the dollars. The front splitter alone is $1,500 while the side skirts cost around $1,000. There is also the roof spoiler with a $580 cost, while the rear lip spoiler adds another $640. As for wheels, these cost around $7,700, yet can go higher depending on the specifications. Wheel spacers are listed at €486 ($580), and lowering springs are priced at €581 ($830).
It’s not a reinvention of the i5, and it even doesn’t pretend to be. But for owners who want the electric sedan to look sharper before BMW officially updates it, AC Schnitzer has already made its move.
BMW i5 by AC Schnitzer – Photo Gallery
