BMW enthusiasts in India are in for a treat as the legendary Bavarian carmaker has introduced its flagship performance sedan, the all-new BMW M5. Priced at ₹1.99 crore (ex-showroom), this luxury powerhouse brings the brand’s ultimate blend of performance and sophistication to Indian roads. Positioned above the M4, the M5 comes as a fully-imported CBU (Completely Built-Up) unit, offering an exhilarating driving experience with 717 horsepower on tap.
This model builds on the new-generation BMW 5 Series, which debuted in India earlier this year in its long-wheelbase format. Let's delve into the details of this stunning machine, from its powerful engine to the premium features that set it apart.
The exterior of the BMW M5 has undergone significant design changes, giving it a more muscular and aggressive presence compared to the standard 5 Series. Thanks to sculpted bumpers, flared wheel arches, and a carbon fibre roof that reduces the car's weight by over 30 kg, the M5 stands out as a true performance machine.
At the rear, the redesigned bumper features a two-section diffuser with gloss black-finished quad exhausts, emphasizing the car's sporty demeanor. The addition of carbon fibre mirror caps further enhances its dynamic styling. The M5 sits on 20-inch front and rear alloy wheels, which are also finished in carbon fibre for an even more striking appearance.
For those who prefer an extra touch of luxury, there’s the option of a panoramic sunroof, though it adds 50 kg to the car’s overall weight.
Step inside the BMW M5, and you’ll immediately notice the focus on performance-oriented luxury. While the cabin layout remains similar to the standard 5 Series, the M5 benefits from M-specific elements designed for an immersive driving experience. The flat-bottomed steering wheel, illuminated M5 logo on the seats, and ambient lighting contribute to the car’s high-performance persona.
The center console has been optimized for M drivers, featuring fewer physical buttons but additional controls for a more intuitive driving experience. A revised, knurled circular drive selector adds to the performance feel.
In terms of technology, the M5 boasts BMW’s latest curved display, which integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch central touchscreen running the latest BMW OS 8.5. Key features include:
Head-up display
Adaptive suspension
Four-zone automatic climate control
Wireless smartphone charging
18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System
These features combine to create a cabin that's both luxurious and functional, perfect for a high-performance sports sedan.
The heart of the BMW M5 lies in its 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, complemented by an electric motor. This hybrid powertrain generates a staggering 717 bhp and 1000 Nm of peak torque. The combustion engine alone delivers 585 bhp and 750 Nm, while the electric motor adds an additional 194 bhp and 280 Nm of torque.
Power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and BMW's rear-biased xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The result is a jaw-dropping acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and 0 to 200 km/h in a blistering 10.9 seconds.
The BMW M5 is electronically limited to a top speed of 250 km/h, but with the M Driver’s Package, this limit can be extended to 305 km/h. The hybrid powertrain features an 18.6kWh battery pack, offering an electric-only range of up to 69 km (as per the WLTP cycle). In electric mode, the M5 can reach a top speed of 140 km/h.
Charging is made easier with AC fast charging up to 7.4 kW. There are three driving modes available: Hybrid, Electric, and eControl. The eControl mode allows brake energy recuperation to maintain the battery charge at a constant level.
For braking, the M5 is equipped with M compound brakes, with the option for carbon-ceramic brakes for enhanced stopping power and performance.
With its exhilarating performance, striking design, and cutting-edge features, the new BMW M5 is an extraordinary addition to India’s luxury car market. Whether it’s the power-packed hybrid engine, the high-tech interior, or the remarkable driving dynamics, the M5 promises an unmatched driving experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
BMW has truly set a new benchmark in the world of luxury performance sedans with the M5.