The BMW M5 still retains its V8, but it is now paired with an electric motor to give 717bhp and 1,000Nm of torque.
BMW has just unveiled the new M5. The V8 lives on, but it is now coupled to a new hybrid system; 577bhp 4.4-litre from the V8, 194bhp from the electric motor.
Combined, the M5 can churn out a staggering 717bhp and an eye-watering 1,000Nm of torque.
But, because of the new system, the M5 tips the scales at a hefty 2,435kg, compared to the 1,895kg of its 2020 predecessor.
That extra weight shows: BMW claims the new M5 will hit 100km/h in 3.5 seconds, just a hair slower than the previous model’s 3.4 seconds.
Keep it in EV mode, and you get 69km of range and speeds of up to 140km/h without waking the V8, thanks to an 18.6kWh battery that can be charged up to 7.4kW. But come on, you bought an M5 for the big engine up front, right?
All this power is sent to the wheels via a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can send all the power to the rear wheels by turning off the car’s Dynamic Stability Control system. Tempting.
The M5’s double-wishbone front axle and five-link rear axle suspension setup, complete with model-specific kinematics and elastokinematics, ensure you have optimal feedback and directional accuracy. The electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering, rigidly connected to the front axle subframe, enhances this precision.
The adaptive M suspension system with electronically controlled dampers, and BMW’s Integral Active Steering, which can steer the rear wheels by up to 1.5 degrees, further refine the driving experience.
The new M5 sports a nearly entirely enclosed gloss black kidney grille with the M-typical double-bar and M5 badge, flared wheel arches increasing the car’s width by 75mm at the front and 48mm at the rear, and a rear spoiler and two-section diffuser.
The embossed ‘M5’ logo at the Hofmeister kink is a nod to its rich heritage.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an M-specific centre console, a flat-bottomed M leather steering wheel with illuminated M buttons, and M multifunction seats. BMW’s Curved Display running Operating System 8.5 with M-specific content ensures you stay connected and in control.
The BMW M5 will make its world premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2024, with production set to start at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing the same month.
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