The New Era of Performance: BMW M5 Enters its Seventh Generation

After four decades of setting the benchmark for high-performance sedans, the legendary BMW M5 is stepping into its seventh generation, ushering in a new era with its first-ever hybrid drive system. Featuring a bespoke version of the M Hybrid system, the new M5 delivers a staggering 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque motivating the car to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds.

This power is courtesy of a revised S63 high-revving, twin-turbo V8 engine equipped with an electric motor, seamlessly paired with a ZF 8-speed, M xDrive all-wheel-drive and some smart programming. But it’s the hybrid system that’s particularly interesting to us.

The G90 M5 At a Glance

BMW M Hybrid drive system produces 717 hp, 738 lb-ft of torque.

0-60 mph – 3.4 seconds, top speed of 190 mph (with the M Driver’s Package) and 25 miles of electric range.

Base MSRP $119,500 with a worldwide launch in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Electrification Meets Performance: The M Hybrid System

The latest BMW M5 marks a significant leap in BMW M’s journey toward electrification. Its hybrid setup is inspired by the powertrain found in the BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance racer, showcasing a blend of combustion and electric power. The 4.4-liter V8 engine produces 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque – down slightly from the 627 we saw in the M5 CS. However this is complemented by an electric motor that adds up to 194 hp and 207 lb-ft. This results in an impressive total output of 717 hp and 738 lb-ft, controlled by the 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive system.

Cutting-Edge Engineering: The Heart of the New M5

Under the hood, the S68 4.4-liter V8 engine is very familiar as it’s derived from the S63 that we’e known for years. It features a cross-bank exhaust manifold, reinforced crankshaft, close-mounted turbochargers, and an array of innovative components designed for peak performance and efficiency. The engine alone delivers its maximum output from 5,600 to 6,500 rpm, with a rev limit of 7,200 rpm. The electric motor, integrated into the transmission, enhances performance with instantaneous power delivery that fills the gaps in performance that you didn’t know existed. The results is a car that pulls even harder than before from any point in the rev range.

So Why is it Slower?

So why is it slower? Because it’s nearly 5,400 lbs. With a maximum system output of 717 hp and torque peaking at 738 lb-ft, the new S68 is constantly working hard to reduce the weight penalty and almost eliminates it. The new BMW M5 gets to from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. The hybrid system’s torque ensures breathtaking elasticity, allowing the M5 to sprint from 50 to 75 mph in just 2.9 seconds in fifth gear, and 2.2 seconds in fourth. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but can be raised to 190 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Newly Developed Sport Exhaust

The 2025 BMW M5’s sport exhaust system, equipped with electronically controlled flaps, delivers a symphony of power. Dual 4-inch diameter tailpipes integrated into the rear apron enhance both the acoustic and visual appeal, making a bold statement even at a standstill.

High-Voltage Battery and Power Electronics

The high-voltage battery, with a usable energy content of 14.8 kWh, is strategically positioned to lower the center of gravity and enhance handling. This setup ensures no compromise in cabin or luggage space. The power electronics optimize the synergy between the V8 engine and electric motor, allowing for electric-only driving in certain conditions and significantly reducing fuel consumption during steady cruising.

Advanced Cooling and Charging Systems

The M5’s cooling system is tailored for both track and everyday use, featuring large air intakes and heat exchangers to maintain optimal temperatures. The Combined Charging Unit manages electricity flow for both charging the battery and powering the electric motor, incorporating predictive heat management to optimize charging times and battery longevity.

Precision Transmission: 8-Speed M Steptronic with Drivelogic

The 8-speed M Steptronic transmission, with integrated electric motor and Drivelogic, adapts to enhance efficiency, comfort, or performance based on the driver’s needs. The new Boost Control function delivers an instant burst of speed between 20 and 90 mph, triggered by holding the left shift paddle for over a second, ensuring that the M5’s acceleration is always ready to thrill.

With the new BMW M5, BMW M continues to redefine what a high-performance sedan can be, blending its rich motorsport heritage with cutting-edge hybrid technology to deliver a driving experience like no other. Stay tuned as this legend makes its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Unleashing the Beast: BMW M5’s Versatile M Hybrid System

The BMW M5’s M Hybrid system offers up to five operating modes, allowing drivers to fine-tune performance and efficiency. Accessing these modes is a breeze via the M HYBRID button on the center console, displaying the options on the control screen. Standard fare includes three driving modes, with two additional modes available as options.

HYBRID Mode is the default, delivering full system output from both the combustion engine and electric motor. In Comfort mode, the electric motor takes precedence, enhancing efficiency. If the battery is low, the generator function kicks in to recharge it, ensuring full system power remains available. Sport and Sport Plus modes keep the combustion engine engaged for maximum performance.

ELECTRIC Mode is ideal for emission-free driving, with the V8 engine stepping in only under heavy acceleration or manual transmission use via paddle shifters. eCONTROL Mode maintains or increases battery charge through energy recuperation, preserving electric driving capacity for later use, such as in urban areas.

Specifying the optional M Drive Professional package introduces DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PLUS Modes. These modes ensure both the combustion engine and electric motor are active, with the cooling system optimized for track driving. DYNAMIC mode offers balanced high performance, while DYNAMIC PLUS unleashes full system power for short bursts on the circuit.

Power Precision with M xDrive and Active M Differential

In every mode, power from the combustion engine, electric motor, or both is delivered to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This system uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch for fully variable power distribution between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and performance. The transfer case is lighter and more efficient than before, with improved cooling and oil-level control, and increased torque capacity to handle the M Hybrid system’s power.

M xDrive’s responses can be tailored through the M Setup menu. Beyond the default 4WD setting, 4WD Sport Modeemphasizes rear-biased power distribution for dynamic handling, a hallmark of M models. Activating this setting requires M Dynamic Mode or deactivating DSC (Dynamic Stability Control). For a pure rear-wheel-drive experience, experienced drivers can select 2WD Mode with DSC fully deactivated, perfect for executing track drifts.

Working with M xDrive, the electronically controlled Active M Differential on the rear axle enhances traction, agility, and stability. It adjusts power distribution between the rear wheels based on driving conditions, improving dynamic cornering by transferring power to the outer wheel and mitigating understeer without brake intervention. Both the M xDrive and Active M Differential are integrated with the central transverse dynamics management for precise power transfer regulation.

Rigid Body Structure with M-Specific Bracing

The new M5’s body structure benefits from M-specific bracing elements, boosting longitudinal and torsional stiffness. Up front, a shear panel connects the spring strut towers with the bulkhead, complemented by bespoke struts. Rear sections feature underfloor bracing elements and additional stiffening in the load compartment, enhancing rigidity and mounting strength.

Advanced Chassis Technology

The M5’s chassis technology uses model-specific kinematics and elastokinematics for exceptional dynamic performance. The double-wishbone front axle, with optimized rigidity and aluminum components, reduces unsprung mass. Redesigned wheel carriers and specific kinematic settings ensure precise steering, neutral handling up to the limit, and linear lateral force buildup.

The 5-link rear axle, featuring innovative forged links and aluminum wheel carriers, meets the high dynamic demands of the M5. Enhanced straight-line stability, directional stability, and precise wheel guidance benefit from specific elastokinematics and rigid mountings. These components, along with the rear axle subframe’s stiff design, improve agility and comfort.

M Servotronic Steering and Integral Active Steering

M Servotronic steering combines speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable steering ratio, delivering precise torque in any situation. Integral Active Steering, standard on the new M5, adjusts rear wheel direction based on speed for enhanced maneuverability, stability, and agility.

Adaptive M Suspension

The Adaptive M suspension’s electronically controlled dampers optimize road contact, reduce body roll in high-speed corners, and improve everyday comfort. Sensors monitor body movements, road conditions, and steering adjustments, adjusting damping forces in milliseconds. The driver can alter the basic damper setting via the M Setup menu.

Integrated Braking System

The integrated braking system in the new M5 adjusts stopping power quickly and precisely. Combining brake activation, booster, and control functions in one module, the system ensures immediate brake pressure via an electric actuator. Enhanced DSC functions and near-actuator wheel slip limitation technology offer precise acceleration control on various surfaces, reducing DSC interventions.

Braking is handled by standard M Compound brakes or optional M Carbon ceramic brakes, featuring six-piston front and single-piston rear calipers. The M Carbon ceramic brakes offer reduced weight, stronger braking power, and greater fade resistance.

Stylish and Functional Design

The new M5’s design is both expressive and functional. With prominent wheel arches, side skirts, and unique surface treatments, it stands out from the 5 Series. The front features a modern BMW twin-headlight and kidney grille design, with Adaptive LED Headlights and M Shadowline Lights. The rear boasts flared wheel arches, a diffuser, and M twin exhaust tailpipes in Black Chrome.

Available in a range of standard and BMW Individual paint finishes, the new M5 can be personalized to suit any taste. Inside, a new M leather steering wheel, M-specific control panel, and advanced iDrive system create a driver-focused cockpit.

Cutting-Edge Driver Assistance Systems

The new M5 offers an extensive array of driver assistance systems, both standard and optional. These include Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assistant, and Speed Limit Info. The Driving Assistant Professional package adds features like Lane Keeping with Side Collision Protection and Traffic Jam Assistant.

Overall, the new BMW M5 combines cutting-edge hybrid technology, advanced chassis systems, and a luxurious yet functional design, making it a standout in the high-performance sports sedan segment.

Ready for the World Stage: Goodwood Debut

The new BMW M5 is set to make its public debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England, July 2024, with production commencing at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing in the same month. The global market launch follows in November 2024.

2025 BMW M5 Colors

  • Carbon Black metallic
  • Black Sapphire metallic
  • Dark Graphite metallic
  • Marina Bay Blue metallic
  • Storm Bay metallic
  • Isle of Man Green metallic
  • Brooklyn Grey metallic
  • Vegas Red metallic
  • Frozen Deep Grey metallic
  • Alpine White (non-metallic)

2025 BMW M5 B-Roll Video

2025 BMW M5 Photo Gallery

2025 BMW M5 Specifications

2025 BMW M5
Body
No. of doors/seats4 / 5
Length / Width / Height (in)200.6 / 77.6 / 59.4
Wheelbase (in)118.3
Track, front / rear (in)66.3 / 65.4
Ground clearance (in)5.0
Turning circle (ft)41.3
Fuel tank capacity (gal)15.9
Curb weight (lbs)5,390
GVWR (lbs)6,482
Luggage capacity (cu ft)16.5
Engine
Config. / no. cylinders / valvesV / 8 / 32
Engine technologyM TwinPower Turbo technology with cross-bank exhaust manifold: two M TwinScroll turbochargers, indirect charge air cooling, High Precision Injection (max. injection pressure: 350 bar), VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing, Double-VANOS variable camshaft timing
Capacity (cc)4,395
Stroke / bore (mm)89.0 / 88.3
Compression ratio (:1)10.5
Output @ rpm (hp)577 @ 5,600-6,500
Torque @ rpm (lb-ft)553 @ 1,800-5,400
Electric Motor
Motor technologyBMW eDrive technology: permanently excited synchronous electric motor with pre-gearing, integrated into eight-speed M Steptronic transmission; generator function for recuperating energy for the high-voltage battery
Max. output (hp)194
Max torque (lb-ft)207
System Power
Max sys. output (hp @ rpm)717 @ 5,600-6,500
Max sys. torque (lb-ft @ rpm)738 @ 1,800-5,400
High-voltage Battery
Storage technology / installationLithium-ion / Underfloor
Voltage (V)347.5
Useable energy capacity (kWh)14.8
Max. charging rate (kW)7.4
Driving Dynamics and Safety
Suspension, frontAdaptive M suspension with double-wishbone axle in lightweight aluminium construction, M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics
Suspension, rearAdaptive M suspension with five-link axle in lightweight aluminium/steel construction, M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics
Brakes, frontVented disc with six-piston fixed calipers
Brakes, rearVented disc with single-piston floating calipers
Driving stability systemsDSC incl. ABS and M Dynamic Mode (MDM), can be switched off; near-actuator wheel slip limitation, CBC (Cornering Brake Control), DBC (Dynamic Brake Control), Performance Control, Dry Braking function, drive-off assistant, M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential networked with DSC
Safety equipmentStandard: airbags for driver and front passenger, side airbags for driver and front passenger, head airbags for front and rear seats, three-point inertia-reel seatbelts on all seats with belt stopper, belt tensioner and belt force limiter in the front, crash sensors, tire pressure indicator
SteeringElectric Power Steering (EPS) with M Servotronic; Integral Active Steering
Steering ratio overall (:1)14.2
Tires front / rear285/40 ZR20 111Y XL / 295/35 ZR21 110Y XL
Rims, front / rear (in)10.5J x 20 / 11.0J x 21
Transmission
Type8-speed M STEPTRONIC transmission
Gear ratiosI:15.00
 II:13.20
 III:12.14
 IV:11.72
 V:11.30
 VI:11.00
 VII:10.83
 VIII:10.64
 R:13.97
Final Drive :13.31
Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph (sec)3.4
Top Speed (mph)155 (190 w/ opt. M Driver’s Package)