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February 25, 2015
Test Drive: The BMW M5 – The Most Powerful M Sedan Ever
BMW M5
Test Drive: The Most Powerful M Sedan in M History (1)
Adopting a downsizing concept to improve environmental performance, it houses a 4.4-liter engine that boasts the highest output in M history, delivering 412kW. This is the new generationM5Journalist Yasuhisa Shimashita test drives the new M5.
By Yasuhisa Shimashita
A New Generation V8 Twin-Turbo: Enhanced Performance and Environmental Friendliness
The biggest feature of the new BMW M5, the fourth generation since the debut of the first model in 1985, which mounted an engine from the supercar 'M1' onto the body of the practical 5 Series sedan, is undoubtedly its powertrain.
Replacing the previous 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine is a 4.4-liter direct-injection V8 twin-turbo. Yes, the wave of downsizing, direct injection, and turbocharging has finally reached this model.
While it's no longer an era where M models can solely pursue driving pleasure, compromising on power performance is unacceptable in this segment. Indeed, its specifications show a maximum output of 560 hp, an increase of 53 hp, and a maximum torque of 680 Nm, a significant 160 Nm increase. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time has also improved from 4.7 seconds to 4.4 seconds.
Yet, fuel consumption is 9.9 L/100km (approx. 10.1 km/L) and CO2 emissions are 232 g/km, a reduction of about 30 percent from the previous model, thanks to the energy regeneration system and start/stop function. It's exactly as intended. BMW's 'Efficient Dynamics' is embodied in its ultimate form in the new M5.
Efficient Dynamics Embodied in Its Ultimate Form
This immense power is transmitted to the rear wheels via the newly adopted 7-speed M DCT Drivelogic with dual-clutch transmission and the Active M Differential, which freely controls torque distribution between the left and right wheels from 0 to 100 percent.
A characteristic inherited from the previous model is the ability to freely switch engine and transmission response, power steering effort, and suspension stiffness, all electronically controlled, via the iDrive settings screen or the M buttons on the steering wheel.
BMW M5
Test Drive: The Most Powerful M Sedan in M History (2)
Maintaining a Formal Silhouette with a More Aggressive Finish
The international test drive event for the new M5 was held in Seville, Spain. Despite it being late September, the sun shone like midsummer. The car presented maintained the inherent formality of the 5 Series, but with a large air intake in the front bumper, air outlets on the front fenders, and dual exhaust pipes, it had a subtly aggressive appearance that only those in the know would appreciate.
The interior, fully upholstered in leather, does not exude an aggressive atmosphere. However, pressing the start button awakens the engine, and a deep, low-frequency exhaust note, though subdued, resonates, strongly reminding you that you are in an extraordinary car.
Surprisingly, the ride comfort was remarkably supple. With the electronic dampers set to 'COMFORT,' the ride was incredibly comfortable, almost unbelievable for a car on 19-inch tires.
The engine characteristics are similar. Torque is immense from low RPMs, requiring no more than 20% throttle input in city driving. Even when accelerating, a further 10% press is enough to easily lead the pack. Unlike the previous SMG with its noticeable gear changes due to the single clutch, the dual-clutch M DCT shifts smoothly. This means no extra effort is needed for everyday driving. But of course, this is only one facet of the M5.
As the suspension is set to 'SPORT' or 'SPORT+' and the transmission is shifted to 'S2' mode for manual shifting with increased shift speed, the M5 gradually begins to reveal its true nature.
The V8 engine, thanks to its twin-turbo setup, generates maximum torque across a wide range from 1,500 rpm to 5,750 rpm. This provides exceptional flexibility, allowing for effortless overtaking maneuvers that would have required downshifting twice with the left paddle on the previous model, simply by applying gentle pressure to the accelerator pedal.
However, this doesn't mean it has become a merely easy-to-handle engine. The specifications make that clear. Maximum output is achieved in the high-RPM range of 6,000-7,000 rpm, just beyond the peak torque band. To unleash its full potential, you still need to rev it enthusiastically.
BMW M5
Test Drive: The Most Powerful M Sedan in M History (3)
A Lack of Speed That Defies Common Sense
While it can be pushed beyond its 7,200 rpm limit momentarily, those accustomed to the previous V10 engine, which revved past 8,000 rpm, might find the sharpness lacking. It's true that even with its exceptionally sharp response for a turbo, it's not as direct as a naturally aspirated engine. However, the warp-speed acceleration, available instantly from any point, is extraordinary, making its performance as a sports engine truly outstanding.
Moreover, the chassis handles this speed with remarkable composure. The lack of perceived speed is astonishing; I often found myself driving at about 1.5 times the speed I thought I was going. Is 180 km/h really this peaceful? It makes you question your own sense of speed, but is that a good thing...?
Despite this stability, the handling possesses the sharpness expected of an M model. While not exactly nimble due to its nearly 2-ton weight, the nose follows steering inputs precisely, allowing for confident turn-ins. Like the previous model, this new M5 does not feature Integrated Active Steering or run-flat tires. However, with such responsive cornering, four-wheel steering is unnecessary.
The New M5: A Car That Lets You Unleash High Performance with Relaxation
If anything, it would be ideal if the brakes, equipped with 6-piston calipers and large 400mm rotors at the front, offered slightly more initial bite. However, considering they showed no signs of fade during a full day of testing, including track driving, perhaps it's unfair to complain.
The track performance was equally stunning. Engaging the M button to switch all electronic systems to their sportiest settings and heading onto the course, the sheer power was astonishing once again. The nearly 2-ton car continued to accelerate without losing momentum even at speeds approaching 200 km/h, making my palms sweat.
Yet, the absence of fear is thanks to the exceptional handling. Given its weight, aggressive braking into corners is not advised, but as long as that's managed, it corners beautifully and offers high stability. Of course, with such power, careless acceleration can easily unsettle the car, but likely thanks to the Active M Differential, it moves forward steadily even when sliding. It offers a coexistence of security and driving enjoyment.
The previous M5 constantly urged you to push the accelerator harder. The new M5, however, has evolved into a car that allows you to unleash high performance with more relaxation. While it's true that it has become somewhat more refined, and a part of me misses its raw edge, it has gained depth and robustness. Fuel efficiency has improved alongside increased speed. Despite downsizing, its fangs remain sharp; the new M5 has evolved into a high-performance sedan befitting the current era.
BMW M5
Body Dimensions: Length 4,910 x Width 1,891 x Height 1,467 mm
Wheelbase: 2,946 mm
Vehicle Weight: 1,945 kg
Engine: 4.4-liter V8 with Twin-Scroll Turbo
Maximum Output: 412 kW (560 hp) / 5,750-7,000 rpm
Maximum Torque: 680 Nm / 1,500-5,750 rpm
Fuel Consumption: 9.9 L/100km (approx. 10.1 km/L)
CO2 Emissions: 232 g/km
Price: 14,950,000 yen