The heart of the BMW M5 may now include an electric motor, but its soul remains undeniably V8. On November 2, BMW officially launched the new M5, priced at 1.4689 million yuan. Positioned as a high-performance, medium-to-large luxury sedan, this new iteration of the BMW 5 Series features a robust plug-in hybrid system, combining a 4.4T V8 engine with an electric motor to deliver a maximum power of 727 horsepower.
Aggressive Exterior Design for Enhanced Aerodynamics
The new BMW M5 showcases a bold, athletic appearance, starting with an enlarged signature kidney grille outlined with an LED light strip and adorned with the M logo on the right side. Its front fascia includes a large air intake to optimize airflow and cooling, with additional aerodynamic details like guide grooves on both sides, giving the car a more aggressive stance.
On the sides, the M5 sports 20-inch front and 21-inch rear smoked alloy wheels, accompanied by yellow brake calipers and M carbon-ceramic brake discs for a powerful visual impact. Carbon fiber elements extend to the horn-shaped rearview mirrors and roof. The M5's suspension system has been fine-tuned by BMW’s M division, using a front double-wishbone and rear five-link setup, with ground clearance reduced by 18 mm compared to its predecessor. At the rear, the car features quad exhausts and a pronounced diffuser, leaving no doubt about its performance potential.
Tech-Infused and Performance-Driven Interior
Inside, the M5 is equipped with a newly designed three-spoke, flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel that includes a red center return mark and a dedicated driving mode selector. Dual digital screens – a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central control screen – complement ambient lighting to enhance the car's modern, high-tech feel. The M5 also sports a red start button and extensive carbon fiber trim, exuding a sporty atmosphere.
Further interior features include a refined electronic shift lever, a crystal iDrive knob, M multi-function seats, seat heating, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system. Additional options include an Alcantara headliner, M carbon fiber exterior kit, and seat ventilation.
Powerful Hybrid V8 Performance
The new M5’s powertrain combines a 4.4T V8 engine with an electric motor, yielding a total of 727 horsepower and a torque of 1,000 Nm, paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. This setup enables the M5 to accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 3.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 306 km/h with the optional M Driver’s package. The V8 engine itself produces 585 horsepower, while the electric motor adds 197 horsepower. The car’s 18.6 kWh battery offers a pure electric range of 67-69 km (WLTP).
The M5 features a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system with multiple modes, including rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and sports four-wheel drive. Additional driving modes include HYBRID, ELECTRIC, eCONTROL for brake energy recovery, and Dynamic and Dynamic Plus for enhanced performance. For an extra adrenaline boost, the M5 comes with an M lap timer and Boost Control mode, allowing for a short burst of added acceleration.
In the new BMW M5, cutting-edge technology meets the thrill of a classic V8 engine, creating a high-performance driving experience wrapped in luxury and innovation.