Key Specifications at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.4 L twin‑turbo V8 + 197 hp electric |
| Total Output | 727 hp, 1,000 Nm |
| Battery Pack | 18.6 kWh |
| Electric Range (EV mode) | ~50–67 km (WLTP) |
| Kerb Weight | ~2,435 kg |
| 0–100 km/h | 3.5 s |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h (305 with M Driver’s Pack) |
| Infotainment Screen | 14.9 inch |
| Driver Display | 12.3 inch |
| Price (India, ex‑showroom) | ₹1.99–2.30 crore |
Introduction: The Hybrid Evolution of the New BMW M5
New BMW M5 has launched its seventh-generation M5 (G90), keeping its iconic 4.4-litre twin‑turbo V8 engine but now integrating plug‑in hybrid tech. The result is a powerful yet considerably heavier super‑sedan. The key questions: Does this M5 retain the full “M” driving experience, or has the added mass dulled its edge?
Performance & Powertrain Analysis
Plug‑In Hybrid V8 Powertrain
The new M5 combines the traditional twin‑turbo V8 (585 hp, 750 Nm) with a 197 hp electric motor and an 18.6 kWh battery pack. BMW claims a combined output of 727 hp and 1,000 Nm, with a WLTP-certified electric range of around 67 km and real‑world EV range of ~50 km (Autocar India).
Acceleration:
- 0–100 km/h: 3.5 s (slightly slower than previous F90’s 3.3 s)
- 0–200 km/h: under 11 s
- Top speed: electronically limited to 250 km/h (305 km/h with M Driver’s Pack).
Despite the impressive figures, the added weight impacts the power-to-weight ratio—down to ~294 hp/ton from ~330 hp/ton—making the M5 slower than its predecessor despite extra horsepower (EVO India).
Driving Experience: High-Speed Performance vs. Soulful Feel
The hybrid setup ensures instant low-end torque and rapid highway acceleration. However, reviewers mention that while the numbers are strong, the visceral sensation of speed feels muted. Sound is amplified through the cabin speakers, but the raw V8 growl is toned down behind layers of luxury and insulation .
Handling & Ride Comfort: A Heavier Beast
Cornering and Dynamics
Weighing around 2.435 kg, the M5 feels notably heavy on the track, especially in long, flowing corners. Understeer and tire scrub are common, and the car lacks the razor-sharp turn-in of earlier generations.
BMW compensates with an advanced M xDrive all‑wheel‑drive system offering a 2WD mode for rear‑wheel bias, plus rear-wheel steering and carbon‑ceramic brakes that enhance track capability.
Customizable Setup: Overwhelming Range or Tailored Precision?
The M5’s array of settings—covering throttle, suspension, steering, braking, hybrid and chassis modes—offers deep customization but can be overwhelming. Fortunately, M1/M2 presets can store favorite configurations, allowing easy recall .
Ride Quality on Public Roads
Off‑track, the M5 excels. In Comfort mode, the adaptive suspension smooths out highway bumps, steering can be dialed down, and the hybrid EV mode (up to 140 km/h) makes city commuting both stealthy and efficient. Ground clearance is low, so slow navigation over poorly maintained speed bumps is advised .
Design & Exterior: Bold, Not Subtle
Gone is the discreet “sleeper” look. The G90 M5 now sports flared arches, aggressive bumpers, and a matte black finish option, with standard 20‑inch front and 21‑inch rear wheels—ensuring it stands out even in a packed parking lot.
Interior & Tech: Luxury Meets Complexity
Dashboard and Infotainment
The M5 carries a minimalistic yet high-tech interior featuring a curved display with a 12.3‑inch digital driver’s cluster and a 14.9‑inch touchscreen. While crisp and high quality, the iDrive menu structure is overly complex, with deep submenus for HVAC, media, and performance modes.
Seats and Space
Front seats combine sporty form with luxury, offering extensive adjustability and comfort. The rear cabin accommodates adults comfortably, and the boot offers ample cargo space—ideal for weekend trips .
Features & Sound
Standard features include ambient lighting, a robust Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and M-specific steering and wheel setup. There’s no sunroof—likely for rigidity and weight savings.
Verdict: Super Sedan for the Highway, Not the Track
- Strengths:
- Exceptional straight-line acceleration and mid-range surge.
- Quiet, comfortable highway driving, especially in EV mode.
- Massive interior luxury blended with tech-laden performance.
- Effective presets (M1/M2) for tailored driving moods.
- Weaknesses:
- Blocky handling and understeer due to hefty kerb weight.
- Slower than previous-gen M5 in power-to-weight terms.
- Menu complexity and synthetic exhaust might jar purists.
Ideal Buyer:
Drivers seeking luxurious daily usability and exhilarating straight-line performance, without prioritizing race-track edge.
Track Enthusiasts:
May miss the sharper, unfiltered driving feel of the F90. The G90 excels more on the Autobahn than the Nürburgring.
BMW M5 vs Main Rivals
At ₹1.99–2.30 crore in India, its closest competitors include the Porsche Panamera GTS and the forthcoming AMG E 63. While the M5 delivers superior acceleration and luxury, its track performance lags slightly behind these rivals.
Conclusion: A Grand Tourer with Muscle
The 2025 BMW M5 remains a potent, elegant super‑sedan that marries hybrid efficiency with robust V8 performance. But if exhilaration and lightness behind the wheel defined the M5 for you, the G90’s added mass may leave you longing for its predecessor. New buyers without F90 baggage will still be impressed, especially with technology, luxury, and hybrid efficiency leading the package.
In the evolving landscape of performance sedans, the G90 BMW M5 defines a new chapter—blending hybrid tech, classic V8 richness, and modern luxury. While the weight may blunt its high-speed agility, it still delivers grand touring brilliance and daily performance charm.
