KUALA LUMPUR: The high-performance luxury sedan, the BMW M5, has received a generation upgrade in the global market. This is the seventh-gen model that marks a radical departure from its predecessor, featuring not only cosmetic and tech changes but also a plug-in hybrid engine for the very first time.

Let’s talk about the electrified powertrain first. The new BMW M5 gets an M Hybrid system that comprises a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and a 197 PS electric motor. The engine kicks out a maximum power of 600 PS at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 750 Nm from 1,800 to 5,600 rpm. Together, the setup makes 727 PS and 1000 Nm.

In terms of performance, the sports sedan hits the 100 kmph mark in 3.5 seconds and 200 kmph in 10.9 seconds. The top speed is rated at 250 kmph, which can be raised to 305 kmph with the optional M Driver’s Package. 

The V8 mill comes paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox, an M xDrive all-wheel drive system, and an 8.6 kWh battery pack. The latter offers an all-electric range of 69 with the top speed electronically limited to 140 kmph. The battery takes three hours and 15 minutes for full charge when using a 7.4 kW AC.

The M Hybrid system delivers fuel consumption as low as 1.6 litres per 100 km, or 10.2  litres per 100 km when the battery is fully drained.

Along with the new drivetrain, the new BMW M5 also gains a heavily revised chassis with upgraded suspension, steering, and structural elements. Standard features include M adaptive suspension, M-specific variable steering, rear-wheel steering, and an M differential on the rear axle. 

The sedan also comes equipped with an adjustable sports exhaust system, an enhanced cooling system, upgraded brakes, and advanced electronic controls that can help maximise performance on the track. For better handling, it now features updated Dynamic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Cornering Brake Control) and Automatic Differential Brake Drivers can choose from five modes: Hybrid, Electric, eControl, Dynamic, and Dynamic Plus. 

The key exterior and interior highlights are as follows - 

• A partially closed-off kidney grille finished in high-gloss black
• Large air intakes with a central partition
• M5 badge on the M-typical double-bar
• Flared wheel arches and side skirts 
• M Carbon Roof
• Rear spoiler
• Two-section rear diffuser
• Black chrome tailpipes
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 14.9-inch central touchscreen with M-specific touches
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel with a red centre marker and M buttons
• Optional M Drive Professional
• Interaction Bar with M-specific customization
• Bowers & Wilkins sound system
• Panoramic glass sunroof

BMW offers extensive personalization options, allowing customers to tailor the new M5 according to their tastes and preferences.

The world premiere of the 2025 BMW M5 will be held at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England next month.

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