The latest M5 from BMW, the top-tier offering in the 5 Series lineup, is not an entirely electric vehicle. Instead, it embraces a plug-in hybrid setup that establishes new benchmarks in the world of luxury sedans, following the lead set by the XM model.
The impact of BMW’s unconventional power SUV, the XM, has been significant, providing an exhilarating driving experience behind the wheel. However, the bar has been raised significantly with the introduction of the new BMW M5 Plug-in Hybrid, surpassing its competitors effortlessly. A recent test drive of the G60 generation M5 reveals that this vehicle is poised to redefine excellence. Enthusiasts of estate cars will be delighted to know that the M5 will once again be offered in a family-friendly Touring variant after a considerable absence. Despite being camouflaged, the distinct features like the flared wheel arches, four tailpipes at the rear, side skirts, and the imposing 20/21-inch wheels unmistakably signify that this is the latest flagship model from Garching.
In contrast to certain rivals, BMW has opted not to completely transition to the electric era or compromise on the number of cylinders. The BMW M5 retains its trusty turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, fortified to a remarkable output of 535 kW / 727 PS and a commanding 1,000 Nm of peak torque thanks to an electric motor integrated into the transmission tunnel. The eight-cylinder turbo engine, delivering 430 kW / 585 PS, is complemented by an electric motor discreetly situated within the housing of the eight-speed automatic transmission, providing an additional 145 kW / 197 PS / 450 Nm.
Upon its launch later this year, it is evident that this is just the inception for this model. Enhanced variants branded with monikers like Competition or Label Red are anticipated to unleash over 800 PS from this sedan. Despite this, the standard M5 package offers formidable acceleration responses. While only a limited number of BMW M5 vehicles may experience a racetrack environment, the capabilities offered by this four-door sedan are exceptional, even on such demanding circuits. The sophisticated suspension system, incorporating a front double wishbone axle and a rear five-link axle constructed from a combination of aluminum and steel, adapt dynamically based on the driving mode, effectively masking the 2.5 tonnes of weight when pushed to its limits.
Weighing in at 5.10 meters and considering its mass, the upcoming BMW M5 is essentially an M7, a designation that never officially materialized. Despite its substantial weight, the chassis, steering, brakes, and the luxurious hybrid powertrain collectively diminish the weight factor, making it effortless to navigate this behemoth from Dingolfing with its balanced handling, even on a circuit like the Salzburgring with its array of corners. In comparison to a similar drivetrain found in the Bentley Continental GT Hybrid, which boasts comparable power and weight, utilizing a ten-piston front brake setup alongside a four-piston rear configuration for optimal deceleration, the Bavarian power-centric sedan employs a six-piston fixed caliper upfront and a single-piston floating caliper at the rear.
The remarkable handling at its limits is not solely attributed to a balanced weight distribution and refined suspension but also to the mixed tires. Power from the engine is translated to the ground through 285/40 ZR 20 front tires and 295/35 ZR 21 rear tires. This all-wheel-drive hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of up to 305 km/h upon request. For individuals inclined towards environmentally friendly motoring, the vehicle can travel up to 140 km/h solely on electric power for approximately 70 kilometers. Energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery pack discreetly placed beneath the luggage compartment, boasting a capacity of 22.1 kWh, with 18.6 kWh being usable. The anticipated increase in the maximum charging power from a modest 7.4 kilowatts to a competitive 11 kilowatts by the time of market launch is expected. The upcoming BMW M5 PHEV is projected to be priced slightly below the XM, with an estimated cost of around 150,000 euros.
