BMW's legendary M5 enters a new era with a plug-in hybrid powertrain delivering over 700 horsepower. The latest generation combines sustainable technology with track-ready performance in unprecedented ways. Early test drives reveal a masterful balance of luxury and raw power that sets new benchmarks in the super sedan segment.
The automotive world stands at attention as BMW unveils its most powerful M5 ever, marking a pivotal moment in the storied history of this performance icon. The 2024 BMW M5 represents not just an evolution, but a revolutionary leap forward as the first M5 to embrace electrification through an advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain system.
At the heart of this technological tour de force lies a sophisticated powertrain that pairs BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine with a high-output electric motor. The combustion engine alone produces 577 horsepower, while the electric motor contributes an additional 194 horsepower, resulting in a combined system output of 718 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque. This remarkable power is channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which has been specifically calibrated for M5 duty.
The integration of the hybrid system brings more than just raw power. A 25.7 kWh battery pack enables an estimated 40 miles of pure electric driving range, allowing owners to handle daily commutes without consuming any fuel. The added weight of the hybrid components is offset by extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the roof, hood, and various body panels.
BMW's engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure the M5's handling characteristics remain true to the nameplate's heritage. The suspension system features electronically controlled dampers and active roll stabilization, while the steering has been retuned to provide enhanced feedback despite the additional weight. The brake system has also been upgraded with larger rotors and more powerful calipers to handle the increased performance potential.
Inside the cabin, the 2024 M5 showcases BMW's latest interior design philosophy while maintaining its driver-focused orientation. The curved display combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch central touchscreen, both running BMW's latest iDrive 8.5 operating system. The M-specific displays provide detailed information about the hybrid system's operation, including power flow, battery status, and regenerative braking settings.
The sport seats, wrapped in Merino leather with illuminated M5 logos, offer exceptional support during spirited driving while maintaining long-distance comfort. The interior features carbon fiber trim elements and customizable ambient lighting, creating an atmosphere that balances luxury with sporting intent.
On the road, the new M5 demonstrates remarkable versatility. In pure electric mode, it glides silently through urban environments with sufficient power for confident acceleration. When both power sources are engaged, the acceleration is nothing short of explosive. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 seconds, making it the quickest M5 ever produced.
The handling characteristics remain impressively sharp despite the added weight of the hybrid system. The electronic stability control system has been specifically calibrated to work with the instant torque delivery of the electric motor, allowing for precise control during aggressive driving. The variable all-wheel-drive system can send up to 100% of power to the rear wheels when desired, enabling the traditional rear-wheel-drive character that M5 enthusiasts cherish.
Fuel efficiency, while not typically a primary concern for M5 buyers, shows significant improvement over the previous generation. BMW estimates combined fuel economy of 26 mpg when operating in hybrid mode, representing a 30% improvement over the outgoing model. The ability to complete most daily driving tasks in pure electric mode further reduces the overall environmental impact.
The exterior design evolves BMW's current styling language while incorporating functional elements required by the hybrid powertrain. The enlarged kidney grilles serve a practical purpose, providing additional cooling for both the combustion engine and electric systems. The wider front fenders and more pronounced side skirts accommodate the hybrid powertrain components while enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.
Pricing for the 2024 BMW M5 starts at $128,995, positioning it at the premium end of the super sedan segment. While this represents a significant investment, the combination of performance, luxury, and newfound efficiency makes a compelling case for buyers seeking the ultimate in four-door performance cars.
The 2024 BMW M5 demonstrates that the future of high-performance vehicles need not be compromised by the integration of hybrid technology. Instead, electrification can enhance the driving experience while providing environmental benefits that increasingly conscious consumers demand. This new generation M5 sets a new standard for performance sedans, proving that the marriage of traditional BMW M engineering with modern hybrid technology can produce extraordinary results.
