The BMW M5
Let me introduce you to the seventh-generation BMW M5—a car that redefines performance sedans with a staggering 727hp plug-in hybrid V8 engine. Launched in India at ₹1.99 crore (ex-showroom), it’s the most powerful M5 yet and a significant leap from its predecessor, which debuted at ₹1.62 crore in 2021.
Powertrain The Heart of the Beast
At its core, the new BMW M5 retains the iconic 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, but now it’s paired with an electric motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic gearbox, reminiscent of the BMW XM SUV. Together, they churn out 727hp and a colossal 1,000Nm of torque, sending power to all four wheels through BMW’s rear-biased xDrive system.
Despite weighing around 2.5 tonnes (thanks to the hybrid setup), this monster rockets from 0-100kph in just 3.5 seconds. The top speed? 250kph out of the box or 305kph with the optional M Driver’s Package. Plus, with its 18.6kWh battery pack, you can enjoy an electric-only range of 69km at speeds of up to 140kph.
Drive Modes & Suspension
You get three drive modes—Hybrid, Electric, and eControl (for maintaining battery charge). The M5’s suspension setup includes adaptive dampers and rear-wheel steering as standard, ensuring precise handling despite its weight. And if you’re looking to stop on a dime, the standard M compound brakes can be upgraded to carbon ceramics.
Design Aggression Meets Elegance
Visually, the BMW M5 oozes aggression. Its sculpted bumpers, flared wheel arches, and shorter wheelbase (compared to the standard 5-Series) give it a sporty edge. The front grille, with its gloss black surround and bold ‘M5’ badge, grabs attention, while larger air inlets and a pronounced air dam enhance its menacing stance.
The rear features a spoiler, quad exhausts in gloss black, and a two-section diffuser. Vertical reflectors on the bumper accentuate its width, while staggered 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels complete the look. Oh, and the carbon-fiber roof? Standard. Prefer a panoramic sunroof? Sure, but be prepared for an extra 50kg.
Interior Familiar Yet Sporty
Step inside, and it’s an upgrade from the regular 5-Series, but with a distinct M twist. The cabin boasts M-specific touches like a flat-bottomed steering wheel, ambient lighting, and seats with an illuminated M5 logo. The revised center console houses additional buttons tailored for performance driving.
The tech on offer is equally impressive—14.9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, four-zone climate control, and a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System. Wireless charging? Of course.
How It Stacks Up
At ₹1.99 crore, the new BMW M5 is just ₹4 lakh pricier than the recently launched Mercedes-AMG C 63, but it offers so much more—more power, more presence, and a greater electric-only range.
In a nutshell, the new BMW M5 isn’t just a car; it’s an experience—a seamless blend of raw performance and cutting-edge hybrid tech. If you’re in the market for a luxury performance sedan, this might just be your perfect match.
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