BMW’s all-new, high performance M5 sedan has been revealed in Europe.
One of the world’s most desirable four-door sedans, the new BMW M5 runs BMW’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 instead of the V10 engine which powered the previous model. For the M5, BMW has squeezed some extra power from the V8 – now up to 412kW at 6,000 – 7,000 rpm - while peak torque is 680Nm from 1,500rpm – that’s 10 per cent more power and 30 per cent more torque than the V10.
BMW has also introduced an EfficientDynamics package to the new M5 including Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration. As a result, fuel consumption of 9.9l/100kms is 30 per cent improved over the previous model.
Drive is via BMW’s seven-speed M Double Clutch automatic with traction optimization and launch control. All of this propels the BMW M5 from zero to 100km/h in just 4.4 seconds (one tenth of a second faster than the current Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG – although Benz’ new turbo V8 is just around the corner).
As expected the new BMW M5 is a performance car techno-overload with gob-smacking technology including the electronically controlled multi-plate limited slip Active M Differential and new M Drive buttons which deliver two individually configured vehicle set-ups managing accelerator response, braking response, shift control and dynamic dampers.
Externally there is an avalanche of aero kit including a bootlid mounted gurney-style spoiler and a rear diffuser between the twin exhaust tailpipes. Wheels are an exclusive M-Design 19-inch light alloy.
And inside is the latest M Design sports/luxury including black-panel technology for the dashboard, M Sport seats in Merino leather, four-zone climate control, ambient lighting, an Anthracite roof liner and electronically adjustable steering column.
The all-new BMW M5 makes its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September with European sales closely following. Expect this stunner in Australia a few months later, although BMW Australia has not as yet given any indication about local prices.
