The BMW M5 Comes to India: A Super Sedan that Redefines Luxury Performance
The wait is over for fans of high-performance sedans in India as the seventh-generation BMW M5, also known as the G90, has finally made its debut on Indian soil. This arrival comes hot on the heels of its global premiere in June, and it's generating quite a buzz. Initially rolling out for $123,275 in the U.S., the M5's price tag in India skyrockets to an impressive $235,000, making it a true luxury performance vehicle among the world’s most populous countries.
The M5 hit the tarmac at the renowned Buddh International Circuit in Uttar Pradesh from December 1-3, where BMW hosted its exhilarating M Town driving experience. Here, car enthusiasts witnessed the M5 command the track alongside other iconic M models like the M2, M4, and the powerful XM SUV. The striking Individual Isle of Man Green hue of the M5 turned heads, offering a stunning visual contrast against the expansive backdrop of the racing circuit.
As professional drivers took the wheel of this super sedan, they were also accompanied by a lineup of other M models participating in the event, including M Performance variants like the Z4 M40i and the locally produced M340i. BMW even showcased the future of performance with the i5 M60 xDrive, emphasizing their commitment to hybrid and electric innovations. Attendees had the unique opportunity to experience the nuanced dynamic offerings that each model brings to the table.
Interestingly, BMW has noted that they don't expect to see the M5 frequently on the tracks. G90's product manager, Daniela Schmid, revealed earlier this year that the overwhelming majority of M5 owners rarely, if ever, drive their luxury machines to the circuit. She candidly mentioned, "For M5 customers, we know that there’s a very small percentage of people who only go once on the track. Consistently… I’d say hardly anyone does it." This reveals a compelling truth: the M5 is designed for the road more than the racetrack.
Indeed, with its considerable size and weight, the new M5 may not fit the racing enthusiast's dream of a track-oriented vehicle as seamlessly as its predecessors did. Its shape and style cater to a different breed of driving pleasure—one that prioritizes comfort, prestige, and the overall driving experience rather than pure lap times. Enthusiasts might find that pairing the M5 with a sportier model, such as the M2 or Z4 M40i, could create an ideal two-car garage setup.
Who exactly is in the market for a vehicle like the M5? According to Schmid, the typical M5 buyer is generally a middle-aged male entrepreneur or a high-ranking executive. These customers often transition from smaller M models to the M5, gravitating towards the larger sedan as their income and desire for luxury increase alongside age. The transition signifies not just an upgrade in cars but an elevation in lifestyle that these executives are achieving.
While BMW hasn't confirmed plans to sell the peerless M5 Touring model in India, one could surmise that such a variant would be even more rare on the circuit than its sedan counterpart. The G90 is marketed as an all-around vehicle; with its luxury finishes, sophisticated technology, and competitive performance specs, it's crafted to appeal to those who want a taste of excitement while still enjoying the comforts of everyday life. It serves as a reminder that while the thrill of the track might be alluring, true luxury is often defined by how a car performs off the circuit.
For those considering the M5, the opulence doesn’t come without a price. Significant investment is required, reflecting not only the cost of the vehicle but the idea of a lifestyle centered around luxury, performance, and exclusivity. This car is not just a tool for transportation; it represents a statement, a badge of honor among a select group of automotive enthusiasts.
It’s fair to say that the arrival of the BMW M5 in India has set the stage for exciting developments in the country’s luxury automotive scene. This super sedan continues to push boundaries in performance and luxury, captivating both current owners and potential buyers eager to experience the next level in driving sophistication. With stunning looks, an electrifying performance, and a premium price tag, the BMW M5 is here to redefine what it means to drive a dream.