The systematic evolution of the high-performance concept
The new BMW M5 takes driving dynamics into a new dimension. Making its debut in the sixth generation of the high-performance sedan is the new M-specific all-wheel-drive system M xDrive. Not only does this drive system enable the M5 to reach new heights of dynamic performance, it means that it excels in terms of everyday practicality and delivers supreme poise in all driving conditions as well.
Frank van Meel, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW M GmbH, explains the benefits of the pioneering drivetrain technology aboard the new BMW M5: “Thanks to M xDrive, the new BMW M5 can be piloted with the familiar blend of sportiness and unerring accuracy both on the race track and out on the open road, while also delighting drivers with its significantly enhanced directional stability and controllability right up to the limits of performance when driving in adverse conditions such as in the wet or snow.”
The new BMW M5 includes revisions to its bodywork over the regular BMW 5 Series to satisfy its challenging dynamic brief. The broader front side panels and front bumper trim have been redesigned to include larger apertures for the air feeding the cooling systems and brakes. Also new is the rear diffuser. The exhaust system’s quartet of tailpipes are a visual pointer to the power generated by the BMW M5 and also lay a suitably sporting soundtrack, courtesy of their flap control system, enabling the driver to adjust the engine sound as desired.
The M-specific-designed bonnet is made from aluminium and boasts eye-catching sculpture lines. These extend into the extremely lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof – a standard feature of the new M5. The weight savings contributed by the CFRP roof and other components such as the exhaust system help to ensure the new BMW M5 with M xDrive all-wheel drive is lighter than its predecessor.
The new BMW M5 is fitted as standard with M compound brakes, which are lighter than conventional grey cast iron items, lowering the car’s weight while having the speed-shedding power to befit the car’s dynamic potency. The optional M carbon ceramic brakes, which can be identified by gold-painted calipers and shave another 23 kilograms off the M5’s weight, can withstand even greater punishment.
The car’s ability to juggle complete suitability for everyday use on the one hand and sheer driving pleasure and superb track performance on the other is down to the M xDrive system’s central intelligent control capability. When the engine is first started, the new BMW M5 will be in all-wheel-drive mode (4WD) with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) switched on. The driver is then able to vary the handling characteristics of the M5 by activating various driving dynamics modes, including a rear-wheel-drive mode with no DSC. In this 2WD mode, the new BMW M5 allows accomplished drivers to enjoy a purebred form of driving pleasure.
Hard at work under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 is the latest and most advanced version of the 4.4-litre V8 engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology. A 600 hp output and peak torque of 750 Nm promise supreme propulsive power and formidable performance. The twinturbo V8 unit propels the new M5 from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.4 seconds. The new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic teams up with the M xDrive system to transfer the high-revving engine’s turbocharged might to the road in all driving conditions. All this imply that the new BMW M5 is not just the fastest M5 built since 1984, but the most nimble too.
Electronic Arts and the BMW Group debuted the all-new BMW M5 in Need for Speed™ Payback, the action driving blockbuster releasing this fall. This marks first time BMW has revealed a car through a videogame partnership, unveiling the new BMW M5 at GamesCom, Europe’s biggest trade fair for interactive games and entertainment. The new BMW M5 builds on the traditional concept of a luxurious four-door business sedan by appealing to drivers with a taste for high speed and adrenaline. Need for Speed™ Payback players will be among the first to experience the new M xDrive all-wheel drive this fall.