The new BMW M5 is ushering in a new era. Celebrating 40 years of unparalleled performance and innovation, this legendary high-performance sedan is now entering its seventh model generation with a significant advancement—an electrified drive system.

New BMW M5The latest BMW M5 boasts a model-specific version of the M HYBRID system, delivering an impressive maximum output of 535 kW/727 hp and peak system torque of 1,000 Nm (737 lb-ft). This combination of a high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor, coupled with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.5 seconds.

Design and Aesthetics

The new BMW M5’s design reflects a fresh interpretation of the high-performance car aesthetics for which M models are known. The vehicle features prominent wheel arch and side skirt extensions, a sculptural front apron, and model-specific surfacing around the C-pillar, including an embossed “M5” logo on the Hofmeister kink.

These elements contribute to an athletic appearance that distinguishes it clearly from the BMW 5 Series Sedan. The extensive use of body color surfaces adds a puristic look, subtly emphasizing its dynamic capabilities.

Inside, the luxurious interior of the new BMW M5 is enhanced with M-specific features that highlight its multi-faceted character. The cabin exudes a sense of poise and assurance, underpinned by vast reserves of power that are always on tap. This performance remains discreet during relaxed, electric-only cruises but becomes vividly apparent over longer distances and is fully unleashed on the track.

Power and Performance of the New BMW M5

M HYBRID System

The M HYBRID system in the new BMW M5 brings together a 4.4-litre V8 engine and an electric motor, each finely tuned to deliver exceptional performance. The combustion engine, featuring cutting-edge M TwinPower Turbo technology, produces a maximum output of 430 kW/585 hp and peak torque of 750 Nm (553 lb-ft).

The electric motor adds another 145 kW/197 hp and a nominal torque of 280 Nm (206 lb-ft), which can be boosted to 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) through a pre-gearing stage.

New BMW M5This hybrid system adheres to the principles of the BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance racing machine, providing instant power delivery and a seamless interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor. The eight-cylinder engine can rev up to 7,200 rpm, delivering a relentless power surge typical of BMW M models. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), but can be increased to 305 km/h (189 mph) with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Exhaust and Sound

The sports exhaust system enhances the driving experience with a rich, multi-faceted engine note, thanks to electrically controlled, continuously adjustable flaps and dual tailpipes with 100-millimetre trims in Black Chrome. BMW IconicSounds Electric provides an acoustic backdrop for the electric motor, delivering authentic responses to accelerator movements in all-electric mode and a dynamic soundtrack when additional electric power is deployed.

Electric Range and Charging

In all-electric mode, the BMW M5 can reach speeds of up to 140 km/h (87 mph). Its high-voltage battery, located low in the car’s underbody, has 18.6 kWh of usable energy, offering an electric range of 67–69 kilometres (42–43 miles) in the WLTP cycle. The Combined Charging Unit allows AC charging at up to 7.4 kW.

Driving Dynamics

M xDrive and Chassis Technology

The M HYBRID system’s power is channelled through the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, with a rear-biased setup especially pronounced in 4WD Sport mode. Drivers can also select 2WD mode, sending power exclusively to the rear wheels with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system switched off for a more traditional performance experience.

The M xDrive and electronically controlled Active M Differential are specially tailored to the hybrid system’s characteristics.

The chassis features a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle with bespoke kinematics and elastokinematics. The electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering with M Servotronic and variable steering ratio is rigidly connected to the front axle subframe for optimal feedback and directional accuracy. This setup, combined with wide tracks and high torsional rigidity, ensures agility, precision, and a linear build-up of lateral forces.

Adaptive Suspension

Standard adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and Integral Active Steering, which steers the rear wheels by up to 1.5 degrees, further enhances the driving experience. The M-specific tuning and individually selectable settings optimize the car’s connection to the road, balancing everyday driving comfort with race-ready dynamics.

Braking and Wheels

The BMW M5 features standard M Compound brakes and optional M Carbon ceramic brakes, both integrated into a system offering two pedal feel settings. M light-alloy wheels (20-inch front, 21-inch rear) with high-performance tires come standard.

Advanced Assistance Systems

The new BMW M5 offers a wide range of standard and optional systems for automated driving and parking. Standard features include front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning with steering assistance, Evasion Assistant, Attentiveness Assistant, and Speed Limit Info.

New BMW M5The optional Driving Assistant Professional adds Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, traffic light detection, automatic Speed Limit Assist, and Active Navigation.

Standard Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant simplifies maneuvering, while the optional Parking Assistant Professional allows automated parking over distances up to 200 meters, controllable from inside the car or via smartphone.

Customizable Driving Experience

Control Panel and Setup Options

The control panel on the center console allows drivers to tailor the BMW M5’s driving experience. The Setup button provides direct access to configure the drive system, Drivelogic, chassis, steering, braking system, and M xDrive, as well as brake energy recuperation intensity. Two overall vehicle setups can be stored and selected using the M buttons on the steering wheel.

The Launch Control function is available in all settings except M xDrive’s 2WD mode.

Dynamic and M Modes

M Dynamic Mode, activated by the DSC button, raises intervention thresholds for a sportier drive. The M Mode button allows switching from ROAD to SPORT, limiting driver assistance interventions to essential functions for sporty driving. If equipped with M Drive Professional, drivers can also use TRACK mode. Additional features of M Drive Professional include M Laptimer and Boost Control for maximum longitudinal dynamics during sprints and overtakes.

M HYBRID System Modes

The M HYBRID system’s operating modes can be adjusted using the new M Hybrid button. HYBRID mode manages the interplay between the combustion engine and electric motor for efficiency or performance. ELECTRIC mode uses the electric motor exclusively until accelerator kickdown or gearshift paddles engage the combustion engine.

New BMW M5eCONTROL mode focuses on effective brake energy recuperation and maintaining battery charge. M Drive Professional adds DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PLUS modes, optimizing the system for constant high output or short bursts during track driving.

Interior and Technology

Sports Car Cockpit
The progressive sports car cockpit includes a flat-bottomed M leather steering wheel with illuminated M buttons, M multifunction seats, and the BMW Curved Display with M-specific content. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional, standard in the new M5, features the BMW Maps navigation system and Augmented View.

BMW iDrive

An upgraded BMW iDrive, based on Operating System 8.5, is designed for touch control and natural speech. The system also includes controls for climate functions, allowing touch or voice command adjustments for temperature, airflow, seat heating, and steering wheel heating.

Exclusive Interior Features

The interior features Merino leather trim, the BMW Interaction Bar, four-zone air conditioning, heated front seats, ambient lighting with M-specific animations, and a panoramic glass sunroof. Standard features also include the Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, wireless charging, Comfort Access, an alarm system, automatic tailgate operation, and the charging cable Professional.

In Conclusion

The new BMW M5 represents a significant leap forward in performance, luxury, and technology. With its powerful M HYBRID drive system, sophisticated chassis, advanced assistance systems, and customizable driving experience, it sets a new benchmark in the high-performance sedan segment.

The world premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2024 marks the beginning of a new chapter for the BMW M5, with production starting the same month and a worldwide market launch in November 2024, including the new BMW M5 Touring. Key markets include North America and Europe, with the USA leading in sales, followed by Great Britain, Germany, South Korea, China, Japan, and Canada.




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