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Here it is: the first hybrid BMW M5.
Now the most powerful nameplate example in its 40-year history, the G90 series BMW M5 accepts Plug-in Hybrid Assist, resulting in increased outputs but lower tailpipe emissions.
It’s expected in Australia between October and December 2024, with local pricing to be announced in July.
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While its engine is still a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, it’s the new ‘S68’ mill from XM An SUV, not the S63 that powered the outgoing sedan.
Although power is down 30kW from its M5 Competition predecessor, the new M5’s V8 engine power and torque of 430kW and 750Nm respectively are complemented by an electric motor.
Integrated into its eight-speed automatic transmission, the motor brings total system output to 535kW and 1000Nm, making this the most powerful M5 yet
It’s just shy of the XM Label Red’s 550kW power figure, with the SUV remaining BMW’s horsepower hero for now.
With drive sent to all four wheels, BMW claims the new M5 can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds – two tenths slower than the outgoing M5 Competition.
All examples delivered to Australia will be fitted with the M Driver’s Package, which raises the M5’s top speed from 250km/h to 305km/h.
BMW claims it can travel up to 69km on electric power, thanks to an 18.6kWh lithium-ion battery.
As with BMW’s electric and plug-in hybrid models, there is a unique acoustic noise generator when driving at low speeds in electric mode.
The exterior design of the BMW M5 is, as expected, even more aggressive than the 5 Series on which it is based.
The kidney grille now features a single strip across its width, while there are large lower air intakes and angular side vents.
At the rear, there’s an aggressive diffuser that juts out four 100mm tailpipes, while a subtle spoiler sits atop the boot lid.
We have yet to see the much-anticipated M5 Touring, which will be the first M5 estate since the E60/E61 generation that ended production in 2010.
The new-look wheels measure 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, shod in 285/40 and 295/35 tires, respectively, to offer an even wider contact patch and more single sidewall than its predecessor.
Under the hood is a double-wishbone front suspension and a five-link rear suspension, all controlled by electronically adjustable adaptive dampers.
Inside the cabin, the BMW Curved Display is now included in the M5, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch infotainment screen.
The M5 uses BMW Operating System 8.5 software, which enables wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, personal eSIM, over-the-air updates and My BMW App connectivity – the latter of which can be linked to the Digital Key Plus smartphone app.
A head-up display is standard.
Passengers are greeted with a new “welcome light carpet” projection that includes M-specific graphics that can also be played when leaving the car.
The flat-bottomed steering wheel with red 12 o’clock markings features stitching in BMW M colors and is equipped with multiple buttons to control the digital display and infotainment system settings.
The M5’s electrically adjustable sports seats are upholstered in Merino leather, which are said to be more comfortable than the previous generation’s seats.
Standard safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot assist, speed sign recognition, rear cross traffic assist, highway lane center assist, and lane change assist and surround view camera.
More details on the BMW M5’s Australian specification and pricing will be announced next month.
MORE ▼: Everything BMW M5
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