Forty years after its original inception, the BMW M5 has a new electrified drive system for the first time.
The legendary high-performance sedan is entering its seventh model generation and a new era for BMW with new editions of this icon. A model-specific version of the M HYBRID system gives the new BMW M5 a maximum output of 727 hp and peak system torque of 1,000 Nm. The combination of a high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor, plus power transfer courtesy of an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds.
A new innovative and engaging performance experience is accompanied by a new interpretation of the high-performance car design for which M is renowned. Prominent wheel arch and side skirt extensions, the sculptural front apron and model-specific surfacing around the C-pillar – including an embossed “M5” logo for the Hofmeister kink – give the car an athletic appearance that helps to differentiate it more clearly than ever from the BMW 5 Series Sedan. At the same time, an unusually high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour create a puristic appearance with stylish references to its superior dynamic talents.
The exterior design accentuates the multi-layered character of the new BMW M5. Its sense of poise and assurance is fuelled by vast reserves of power that can be summoned at any time. Kept discreetly in reserve during relaxed, electric-only cruises, this performance comes vividly to the fore as the BMW M5 reveals the “sporty sedan” side of its personality over longer distances – and is unleashed in full during sessions on the track.
The new M HYBRID drive system combines a 4.4-litre V8 engine with a classically high-revving character and an electric motor. The electric motor’s performance characteristics are tuned specifically for the BMW M5, and it is integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. The combustion engine benefits from cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology, a cross-bank exhaust manifold and optimised oil separation. The ability of the electric motor to generate its power instantly and the intelligently controlled interplay of the combustion engine and motor ensure the M HYBRID system responds without delay to every movement of the accelerator.
The sports exhaust system of the new BMW M5 underscores the performance experience with a multi-faceted and emotionally enthralling engine note. It features electrically controlled, continuously adjustable flaps and the two pairs of dual tailpipes familiar from other M models, each with 100-millimetre trims in Black Chrome.
Providing an acoustic accompaniment to the power delivery of the electric motor is BMW IconicSounds Electric. This M-specific electric drive sound provides authentic responses to movements of the accelerator when the car is operating in all-electric mode. With the relevant drive system configuration, it also generates an engaging track to highlight the arrival of extra electric power on top of the output from the V8 engine. The power generated by the combustion engine and electric motor is channelled to the road via the all-wheel-drive system M xDrive, whose rear-biased setup is particularly pronounced in 4WD Sport mode. However, the driver can also select 2WD mode.
The chassis design comprises a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle with bespoke kinematics and elastokinematics, plus a host of other specially tuned components. The electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering with M Servotronic and variable steering ratio is rigidly connected to the front axle subframe to ensure optimal road feedback and a high degree of directional accuracy.
Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and Integral Active Steering, which steers the rear wheels by up to 1.5 degrees, are also standard. M-specific tuning, the individually selectable settings, and the ability to adjust the dampers at each wheel optimise the body’s connection to the road and maximise the car’s range of talents—from everyday driving comfort to race-ready dynamic prowess. Turning the rear wheels as required improves directional stability at high speed, as well as agility and comfort when manoeuvring.
Traction, agility, and directional stability all benefit from near-actuator wheel slip limitation and the networking of all control systems within the integrated transverse dynamics management setup. The standard M Compound brakes and optional M Carbon ceramic brakes combine with an integrated braking system that offers the driver two pedal feel settings. M light-alloy wheels (20-inch at the front axle, 21-inch at the rear) come as standard and are fitted with high-performance tyres.
Inside, the progressive sports car cockpit of the new BMW M5 contains a newly designed, flat-bottomed M leather steering wheel with illuminated M buttons, M multifunction seats with a wide range of electric adjustment and the BMW Curved Display which, like the standard BMW Head-Up Display, includes M-specific content. The standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional also brings the BMW Maps navigation system and the Augmented View function on the control display. An upgraded version of BMW iDrive features as standard in the new BMW M5. It is based on the BMW Operating System 8.5 and is designed squarely for use via touch control and natural speech.
Also playing their part in the exclusive interior ambience are the standard Merino leather trim, the BMW Interaction Bar, four-zone air conditioning, heated front seats, ambient lighting with M-specific interior lighting including Welcome Animation, and the panoramic glass sunroof. The standard specification also provides customers with the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, a wireless charging tray, Comfort Access, an alarm system, automatic tailgate operation and the charging cable Professional.
Among the items on the options list are the M Carbon exterior package, an Alcantara headliner, steering wheel heating, active seat ventilation and a trailer tow hitch. Model-specific BMW M Performance Parts will also be offered for the new BMW M5 from launch. The selection includes M Performance forged light-alloy wheels and exterior components made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic.
