BMW has unleashed its fastest, most powerful M5 yet. But while the hybrid powertrain adds serious performance and efficiency, it also strips away something crucial: the raw, unfiltered essence that made the M5 legendary. It’s an engineering marvel, but it might leave die-hard fans yearning for the car’s rebellious past.
Highlights
The Good:
Over 40 miles of electric-only range
Tax benefits for hybrid tech
Blisteringly fast and rock-solid stability
The Bad:
Heavy and tech-heavy
Feels less like a true M5
Lacks that visceral edge
What’s Changed?
The M5 has always been about squeezing big performance into an understated 5 Series. This time, though, BMW has redefined the formula. Instead of just cranking up the engine, the new M5 pairs its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with an 18.6kWh plug-in hybrid system. This setup offers up to 42 miles of electric-only driving and is designed to take advantage of tax incentives.
The hybrid system adds nearly 200bhp and 200lb ft of torque through an eight-speed gearbox, boosting the total output to a staggering 727bhp and 737lb ft. The result? A 0-62mph time of just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 155mph—or 189mph if you tick the M Driver’s Package box.
A Beast That Plays It Safe
By any measure, 727bhp is a lot of power. Yet thanks to all-wheel drive, an active rear differential, and a host of traction control systems, the new M5 can feel surprisingly tame when you want it to. Its default setup leans rear-biased, but you can dial it up for more aggression or even switch to two-wheel drive for tire-melting antics. It’s quick, confident, and impeccably stable. But if you’re looking for the kind of tail-happy chaos that earlier M5s delivered, you’ll have to work for it—or rely on the electronics to simulate it.
Does It Look the Part?
The M5 isn’t trying to be a head-turner, but it’s got presence. With a wider stance—75mm up front and 48mm at the rear—it looks like a car that means business. New cooling vents, deeper sills, and a proper rear diffuser add purpose without going overboard. The quad exhausts and optional carbon roof are nice touches, though the rear bumper’s resemblance to underwear might be hard to unsee once it’s pointed out.
It’s purposeful, but not exactly pretty.
How Does It Drive?
On the road, the new M5 is ferociously fast. It excels on open highways, where its stability and power make it an unstoppable force. It’s equally impressive in the corners, where clever chassis tuning and active tech disguise its hefty 2.5-tonne weight.
But the magic starts to fade the more you push it. The car’s heavy reliance on tech makes the driving experience feel less natural, more artificial. Systems like the programmable "Boost" mode—where holding a paddle triggers a full-power overtake complete with disco-flashing “BOOST” in the head-up display—can feel gimmicky. And while you can customize nearly every parameter, finding that perfect setup is more frustrating than fun. Even the sound is a letdown. Inside, it’s artificially enhanced, while outside, the exhaust’s pops and bangs feel canned and repetitive.
The Verdict
The new M5 is undeniably brilliant. It’s fast, advanced, and loaded with features. But here’s the rub: it doesn’t feel like an M5. The plug-in hybrid tech, while impressive, adds weight and complexity that take away from the car’s natural character.
An M5 should be more than just the best 5 Series—it should have soul, attitude, and a rebellious streak. This one feels like it’s playing it too safe, relying on clever systems rather than raw thrills to impress, but its still has the soul of the machine that we all love.
If you want a cutting-edge super saloon that can do it all, the new M5 delivers. But if you’re craving the visceral magic of M5s past, you might leave feeling a little cold. lastly if you can buy it BUY IT!
Alternatives to Consider
Mercedes-AMG E63: Offers similar performance with a bit more soul.
Audi RS7: A tech-forward bruiser with a sleeker look.
Porsche Panamera: A more dynamic blend of luxury and performance.
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