2025 BMW M5: The Ultimate Hybrid Powerhouse Unleashed
The seventh generation of the BMW M5 has finally hit the stage, and it’s tearing up the automotive rulebook. Nicknamed the G90, this Bavarian marvel is shaking things up by blending the ferocity of a V8 with the sophistication of a plug-in hybrid system. It’s a nod to the future without completely abandoning its old-school roots, positioning itself as a trailblazer in the performance sedan segment. But does this bold move make the new M5 the ultimate driving machine, or has BMW bitten off more than it can chew?
Under the Hood: Power Meets Efficiency
At the heart of the 2025 M5 lies a monstrous twin-turbo, 4.4-liter V8 engine paired with an electric motor. This combination churns out a staggering 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, earning it the title of the most powerful M5 yet. The internal combustion engine alone delivers 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque available from 1,800 to 5,400 rpm and maximum output between 5,600 to 6,500 rpm. The electric motor, built into the eight-speed automatic transmission, adds 194 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque, creating a seamless blend of power and efficiency.
This electrified powertrain is supported by a lithium-ion battery pack with a net energy content of 18.6 kWh, granting the M5 an electric range of 25 miles under the stricter U.S. test cycle. A full recharge at 7.4 kW takes just three hours and 15 minutes, thanks to an advanced sensor in the charging socket that prevents overheating.
The Weight of Innovation
Inevitably, the hybrid setup adds extra weight, pushing the M5 to a hefty 5,390 pounds in the U.S. Despite this, it remains a rocket on wheels, with a 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 189 mph with the M Driver’s Package. Even more impressive is its acceleration from 50 to 75 mph in just 2.2 seconds in fourth gear, showcasing its prowess in real-world driving scenarios.
The chassis enhancements are equally noteworthy. The G90 features advanced torsional rigidity thanks to a combination of shear panels, custom strut braces, and underfloor bracing elements. Integral Active Steering, which adjusts the rear wheels based on speed, comes standard, improving both maneuverability at low speeds and stability at high speeds.
Driving Modes: Tailored Performance
The 2025 M5 offers multiple driving modes to optimize the interaction between the combustion engine and electric motor. The default HYBRID mode utilizes both power sources, with sub-modes enhancing efficiency or performance. The ELECTRIC mode allows for emission-free driving at up to 87 mph, ideal for short commutes. The eCONTROL mode conserves battery for future urban drives, while the optional DYNAMIC and DYNAMIC PLUS modes unleash full system power for track use.
BMW has also equipped the M5 with electronically controlled dampers, which adjust in milliseconds to provide the perfect balance of comfort and performance. The optional carbon ceramic brakes shed 55 pounds off the curb weight while offering exceptional stopping power.
Exquisite Design Inside and Out
Visually, the M5 is a feast for the eyes. Its wide hips, aggressive front grille, and quad exhausts exude athleticism. The car is 5096 mm long, 1970 mm wide, and 1510 mm tall, making it larger than the average 5 Series. The redesign includes broader wheels – 20-inch in the front and 21-inch in the rear, wrapped in performance rubber.
The interior is no less luxurious. A new flat-bottomed steering wheel adorned in M-specific stitching, redesigned shift paddles, and an optional panoramic glass roof set the cabin apart. The Full Merino Metallic leather trim debuts in the M5, available in a variety of colors including Black, Silverstone/Black bi-color, Red/Black bi-color, and Kyalami Orange/Black bi-color.
Technology and Pricing
The new M5 boasts the latest iDrive 8.5 Operating System, along with a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System featuring 18 speakers and 655 watts. Various interior trims in aluminum, carbon fiber, and dark oak are available, each with Dark Silver accents.
In terms of pricing, the 2025 BMW M5 starts at $120,675 in the United States, including destination and handling fees. Production is set to begin in July, with global sales kicking off in November. A touring version with additional cargo space is expected to debut shortly afterwards.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 BMW M5 represents a thrilling evolution in the world of performance sedans, blending raw power with state-of-the-art hybrid technology. While it may not please purists longing for the simpler days of gasoline-only engines, it sets a bold precedent for what the future of high-performance driving can look like. Whether heading to the track or navigating city streets, the new M5 promises an exhilarating ride every time.