New BMW M5's Stonking M Hybrid System - More Power Than Ever

The latest BMW M5 Sedan will launch in Australia in Q4 this year. This seventh-generation model introduces several significant advancements and firsts.
It is the first BMW M5 with an electrified drivetrain in the model’s 40-year history.

The M5 uses an model-specific M HYBRID system, derived from the BMW M Hybrid World Endurance Championship (WEC) racecar, which combines the power of a 4.4-litre M TwinPower Turbo V8 engine with an electric motor. The new BMW M5 hybrid system combines to create a stonking 535kW/1000Nm which sets new benchmarks for the M5’s performance.

The 430kW/ 750Nm petrol engine can rev up to 7,200rpm. The electric motor, integrated within the transmission, produces a maximum output of 145kW and 280Nm of torque. A pre-gearing stage boosts the effective torque at the transmission input to 450Nm. This combination of petrol and electric power, transmitted through an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and enhanced by M xDrive all-wheel-drive and an electronically controlled Active M Differential, results in a car capable of astonishing performance. The new M5 has a 0 to 100km/h of 3.5 seconds, and Australian models, equipped with the M Driver’s Package as standard, can reach a top speed of 305km/h.

ABOVE: All New BMW M5 Hybrid

The new M5’s exhaust employs electrically controlled, continuously adjustable flaps, providing a raucous exhaust note, worthy of it four 100mm diameter tailpipes. The new M5 has all-electric mode alone can get the BMW M5 to a top speed of 140km/h, with an 18.6kWh battery providing 67 to 69 kilometers of WLTP electric driving. BMW IconicSounds Electric is a feature that accompanies the electric motor’s operation with naff noises.

The M5’s chassis dynamics are tuned to make the most of the immense power. Suspension is double-wishbone at the front axle and five-link at the rear. Both have unique kinematics and elastokinematics, and adaptive M suspension with electronically-controlled dampers for the full driver satisfaction experience.

BMW is returning to the handsome designs it was once known for, eschewing the much-maligned grille that blites the current M3 and M4.

New BMW M5 includes prominent wheel arch and side skirt extensions, a sculptural front apron, and unique surfacing around the C-pillar, complete with an embossed ‘M5’ logo on the Hofmeister kink. Finishing the exterior are flashy 20-inch front and 21-inch rear M light alloy wheels.

Inside, the BMW M5 continues its tradition of high-performance luxury. Features includes Merino leather trim, a new flat-bottomed steering wheel, a BMW Interaction Bar, and ambient lighting with M-specific interior themes, including Welcome and Goodbye Animations. BMW iDrive 8.5 commands the control and connectivity. A model-specific control panel on the center console allows drivers to customize their driving experience, including configuring the drive system, transmission, chassis, steering, braking, and M xDrive settings. Different M HYBRID modes can also be selected via this interface.

The new BMW M5 is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Plus, intended to position the new M5 as a versatile and powerful option in its segment.

The all-new BMW M5 will debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July, with production starting at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing—the birthplace of all previous M5 generations. Australian pricing will be announced in July, with customer deliveries commencing in November 2024. This latest BMW M5 promises to offer a blend of power, luxury, and advanced technology, maintaining its legacy as a leading high-performance sedan.

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