First Look at the 2025 BMW M5: A 717-HP Hybrid Beast That's Heavier Than Ever
The automotive world is buzzing with the arrival of the seventh-generation BMW M5, a vehicle that boldly steps into a new era with a groundbreaking plug-in-hybrid powertrain. This isn't just a superficial update; it’s a significant transformation that fuses electrification with traditional power to produce an astonishing 717 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. Let’s dive deep into what makes this new M5 a monumental leap for BMW’s performance lineup.
The Powerhouse: A Twin-Turbo V8 Meets Electric Muscle
At the heart of the 2025 BMW M5 lies a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, which now works in tandem with a 194-hp electric motor. This hybrid setup marks the first instance of a plug-in-hybrid powertrain in the flagship M car. The combined output of 717 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque dwarfs the previous M5 CS, which delivered 627 hp and 553 pound-feet.
A 14.8-kWh lithium-ion battery underpins the electric motor. Ingeniously housed beneath the vehicle's floor, it propels the M5 with an e-motor capable of a torque boost from 206 to 332 pound-feet. This integration of electric torque results in a jaw-dropping 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds, although some speculate it might be even quicker in real-world conditions. The top speed peaks at 190 mph with the optional BMW Driver's package, or 155 mph without it.
Heavier Yet Swifter: The Weigh-In
Accompanying all this phenomenal power is a significant increase in weight. The new M5 tips the scales at a hefty 5390 pounds, making it 1153 pounds heavier than its predecessor. This mass even exceeds that of the fully electric 2024 BMW i5 M60 xDrive. Despite this, the engineers at BMW have meticulously tuned the car to ensure it doesn't sacrifice its sportiness or agility.
Enhanced Personalization and Control
The new M5 brings a suite of personalized control options, making it more adaptable than ever before. There are five driving modes ranging from Electric to Hybrid and eControl battery-saver modes, allowing drivers to optimize their experience based on different driving conditions. For those looking to push the envelope on the track, the Dynamic and Dynamic Plus modes are available through the optional M Drive Professional package.
Additionally, customization extends to the drive settings. Drivers can fine-tune the throttle mapping, transmission response, chassis setup, steering feel, and braking force. The all-wheel-drive system allows for power distribution adjustments, adding another layer of control. A unique boost control function can be activated by pulling the left-hand shift paddle between 20 and 90 mph, instantly setting powertrain and chassis systems to their most aggressive settings.
A Striking New Look
Aesthetically, the new M5 sets itself apart with an aggressive, unmistakable design. Carbon-fiber channels extend from the redesigned kidney grille, and wider fenders further emphasize its muscle-bound stance. The car’s tail is punctuated by quad exhaust tips that peek through a sporty diffuser, while the 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, coupled with a track width increase of 0.4 inches, add to its imposing presence.
Inside the Cabin
Step inside, and you'll find the M5’s interior loaded with luxury and tech. Carbon-fiber accents punctuate the interior, creating a sporty yet refined atmosphere. A new three-spoke leather-wrapped M steering wheel includes a flat bottom and a red center marker at the 12 o'clock position. The programmable M buttons and paddle shifters have been slightly redesigned for better usability, adding to the hands-on driving experience. The center console, as with other recent M models, features permanent buttons for adjusting DSC settings, adding to the high level of control the driver holds.
The M5 is set for a grand unveiling at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July and will go into production the same month. Availability in showrooms is slated for November, with a starting price of $120,675, positioning it $9,000 above the base price of the 2023 model.
Conclusion
The 2025 BMW M5 is more than just an update; it's a paradigm shift for what enthusiasts can expect from a high-performance sedan. With its potent hybrid powertrain, advanced customization options, and bold design, it's clear the M5 is setting new benchmarks in its segment. As it enters its seventh generation, it blends traditional power with futuristic technology, promising an exhilarating driving experience that defies its weight and redefines the luxury sports sedan.