The all-new BMW M5 made its debut at the 2024 Guangzhou International Auto Show. In recent years, the performance car market has undergone significant changes, with the trend towards electrification gradually reducing the space for traditional fuel-powered performance cars. However, these models still possess an irreplaceable unique charm, especially in terms of driving experience and dynamic response. As technology advances and market competition intensifies, major manufacturers continue to innovate to maintain the position of their performance models in the market.
This upgrade of the all-new BMW M5 is BMW's response to market changes and to meet the needs of performance car enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at the comprehensive upgrades of the all-new BMW M5 in terms of exterior, interior, and power system.
Exterior Design:
Compared to the previous model, the all-new BMW M5 features a more aggressive appearance, incorporating BMW's latest familial design language.
The front part includes a wider and lower kidney grille, emphasizing its dominance as a high-performance sedan. The new M5's body lines are sharper, with widened wheel arches and a streamlined roof profile creating a lower and more aggressive visual effect. Aerodynamic components have also been added to enhance downforce.
This new design style is not only for aesthetic purposes but also an improvement in functionality by BMW, ensuring that the vehicle maintains good handling and stability at high speeds.
On the sides of the vehicle, a blackened design is adopted, with 20-inch front wheels and 21-inch rear wheels. The car also features carbon fiber bullhorn-shaped rear-view mirrors and a carbon fiber roof. Additionally, the ground clearance has been reduced by 18 millimeters compared to the previous generation.
At the rear, the entire back surround is designed extravagantly, with dual quads of exhaust and a large diffuser.
Interior
The all-new BMW M5 continues the luxurious and sporty style of the M series in its interior design, while also featuring the latest generation of the iDrive operating system, enabling more convenient control for the driver.
The dual-screen setup, with a 12.3-inch and 14.9-inch screen, along with a head-up display, radiates a high-tech feel. Attention to detail is showcased through the use of various materials and colors to enhance the sense of sportiness. The newly designed M series sports multifunction steering wheel provides driving mode control.
Furthermore, the interior extensively uses carbon fiber trim and Alcantara material, infusing it with a racetrack ambiance. The seats have been redesigned to offer enhanced support and comfort, providing excellent support during long drives or intense maneuvers.
Engine
In terms of power, the new car is equipped with a plug-in hybrid system composed of a 4.4T V8 engine and an electric motor. It retains the traditional internal combustion engine and incorporates an electric motor to enhance power output and fuel efficiency. The combined maximum power is 727 horsepower and the maximum torque is 1000 Nm, matched with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. It accelerates from 0-96 km/h in 3.4 seconds and can reach a top speed of 306 km/h with the optional M Driver's package.
The all-new BMW M5 features an all-electric mode, allowing for zero emissions during low-speed urban driving. This power combination not only continues the M5’s robust acceleration performance but also adapts to increasingly stringent environmental regulations, marking an important step in BMW’s electrification transformation. Although the previous model M5 had impressive performance, it was somewhat lacking in environmental and fuel efficiency.
Competitive Analysis
The upgrade of the new M5 makes it more competitive in the luxury performance car market. Its main rivals still include high-end models like the Mercedes AMG E63 and Audi RS7, which also boast powerful engines and luxurious features. However, the all-new M5's enhancements in electrification and technological aspects make it more competitive in the market.
Summary
From any angle, it is the strongest choice ever in the BMW M5 series. Undoubtedly, this is the first time BMW, as a manufacturer, offers more than 700 horsepower, making it a unique milestone in history.
However, some people feel that by using a plug-in hybrid system, the M5 has lost the pure essence of BMW. What do you think?