The latest iteration of the BMW M5 Sedan will launch in Australia in Q4 this year.
The new, seventh-generation M5 will, for the first time, be available as an electrified variant with the M Hybrid system pairing a 430kW/750Nm 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 with an electric motor, integrated in the transmission, pumping out 145kW and 280Nm. Total system output is 535kW and 1000Nm.
The combination of the petrol and electric drive units – with power sent through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and electronically controlled Active M Differential – means this M5 variant will deliver some stonking performance.
BMW says 100km/h is reached in 3.5 seconds, while Australian-delivered models will achieve a top speed of 305km/h due to the offering of the M Driver’s Package as standard equipment.
The sports exhaust system of the new BMW M5 integrates electrically controlled, continuously adjustable flaps to provide a note that is channelled through four tailpipes.
The electric motor can propel the BMW M5 to a top speed of 140km/h, while the 18.6kWh battery enables an electric-only driving range of between 67 to 69 kilometres on the WLTP testing cycle.
BMW says chassis dynamics are tuned to effectively put all the M5’s ample power to the road. There’s a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle and adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers. 20- and 21-inch M light alloy wheels feature at the front and rear.
The interior offers a combination of luxury and high-performance styling, integrating cutting-edge tech such as the latest version of BMW iDrive running Operating System 8.5.
There’s a newly designed flat-bottomed steering wheel, Merino leather trim, the BMW Interaction Bar and ambient lighting with M-specific interior lighting including Welcome and Goodbye Animation.
A control panel on the centre console houses a model-specific composition of buttons that allow the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. This includes the Setup switch that enables configuration of the drive system, Drivelogic (transmission), chassis, steering, braking and M xDrive. Different M HYBRID modes can also be selected via the centre console.
A new BOOST mode, enabled by a long pull of the left gearshift paddle, delivers maximum thrust between the speeds of 30km/h and 150km/h for bursts of acceleration.
The list of driver assistance, safety, and comfort features is long and top-notch, and includes Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional, wireless charging tray, interior camera, an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, M Compound Brakes, Blue (Red or Black as no-cost option), Automatic Tailgate, front and rear heated seats, and much more.
Pricing for the new BMW M5 sedan will see it come in at $259,900 (excluding on-road costs).
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (August 2024)
29 August 2024