The days of gasoline-guzzling engines ruling the roads are giving way to a future that is green and fast. For the first time in its illustrious history, the BMW M5 is taking a step into the electric age. Throughout six generations, we’ve seen it powered by everything from inline-six to V10 engines, but the seventh iteration debuts a plug-in hybrid approach. A 14.8-kWh battery propels an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, providing a new dimension to the M5's legendary performance.
This fresh setup means you can expect an estimated electric range of 25 miles (40 kilometers) in the US, while European models are slightly more optimistic, quoting a 43-mile (69-kilometer) range. The difference comes down to the variations in testing cycles between the EPA and WLTP. However, the M5's top speed in electric mode is capped at 87 mph (140 km/h) to conserve battery life. When performance demands a bit more oomph, the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 awakens, ensuring the M5's heart remains as ferocious as ever, especially when paddle shifters come into play.
What sets this M5 apart is not just its electric capabilities but also its intelligent design. BMW has cleverly mounted the battery in the underbody. This design not only serves to reduce any loss of practicality but also lowers the car's center of gravity, enhancing its handling prowess. Yes, the plug-in hybrid setup adds weight, but the trade-off is an electrifying burst of power and the retention of the beloved V8 for another generation. The battery, while smaller than that of the BMW XM, can still be charged up to 7.4 kW, reaching full capacity in just over three hours.
But the excitement doesn't end with the sedan. The M5 Touring “G99” is set to join later in the year, featuring the same technical marvels. While it may be slightly less efficient due to the additional weight that comes with a wagon, it marks a historic first for North American markets. For the first time, an M wagon will grace the roads of the United States and Canada, blending European practicality with BMW's iconic performance.
As the auto industry leans into a future fueled by electricity, BMW's move to electrify the M5 proves that performance doesn't have to be sacrificed for sustainability. By integrating cutting-edge technology with engineering brilliance, the 2025 BMW M5 remains a true testament to the legacy of the M series, now electrified and turbocharged for the next era.