Since its inception in the mid-1980s, the M5 has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a four-door sports car can achieve, evolving through multiple generations to deliver ever-greater performance and technological advancements.
This latest iteration of the M5 isn’t just about embracing hybrid technology—it’s about redefining what’s possible for a high-performance sedan in a world increasingly focused on sustainability. With nearly 720 horsepower, advanced driving modes, and cutting-edge technology, the 2025 M5 aims to be the most capable and versatile version yet. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into its powertrain, design, features, and what this electrified transformation means for the future of the M5 lineup.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2025 BMW M5 takes a revolutionary step in performance engineering by integrating a plug-in hybrid system into its legendary powertrain. At its core, the new M5 features a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, a staple of BMW’s high-performance models, now paired with an electric motor to deliver staggering power figures. This hybrid system, derived from the BMW XM Label Red, produces a total output of approximately 717 horsepower (535 kW) and 738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) of torque, making it the most powerful M5 ever produced.
M xDrive and Transmission
Like its predecessor, the system allows for various configurations, including a rear-wheel-drive mode (2WD) for those who prefer a more traditional M5 driving experience with dynamic oversteer.
Paired with an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, the M5 ensures lightning-fast gear changes, whether in automatic or manual mode via the paddle shifters. The transmission has been fine-tuned to accommodate the hybrid system, ensuring smooth power delivery and an exhilarating driving experience.
Hybrid System and Electric Assist
The electric motor, housed within the transmission, adds extra responsiveness and efficiency to the M5’s power delivery. It not only enhances acceleration but also contributes to a more refined and quieter drive in urban settings. The 18.6 kWh battery pack allows for an electric-only driving mode, offering approximately 67 km (41 miles) of zero-emission range—ideal for city commuting or short trips without using the gasoline engine.
Performance Summary
- Power Output: 717 hp, 738 lb-ft of torque
- 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): 3.5 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed M Steptronic automatic
- Electric Range: 67 km (41 miles)
- Battery Capacity: 18.6 kWh
By merging electrification with high-performance engineering, the 2025 BMW M5 sets a new benchmark for what a modern performance sedan can achieve. It retains the raw power and driving excitement expected from an M5 while embracing hybrid technology to enhance efficiency, response, and versatility.
Driving Modes and Efficiency
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2025 BMW M5 is its versatile driving modes, which allow drivers to tailor their experience depending on their needs—whether they want maximum.
Three Core Driving Modes
The 2025 M5 offers three primary driving modes that modify how the gasoline engine and electric motor interact:
1. HYBRID Mode (Balanced Performance & Efficiency)
- Perfect for daily driving, as it provides strong acceleration while keeping fuel consumption in check.
2. ELECTRIC Mode (Zero-Emission Driving)
- Ideal for city driving, short commutes, or stop-and-go traffic, where the gasoline engine remains off to maximize efficiency.
- The M5 can reach speeds of up to 140 km/h (87 mph) in electric mode, making it practical for highway use in urban areas.
- This mode significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making the M5 a more eco-conscious option in everyday scenarios.
- This mode ensures that the battery charge is preserved or replenished by using regenerative braking and energy recuperation from the gasoline engine.
- This mode optimizes energy management, ensuring the M5 remains efficient while maintaining performance readiness.
Additional M-Specific Driving Features
Beyond the hybrid driving modes, BMW has equipped the M5 with additional M-specific performance settings that further refine the driving experience:
M xDrive System
- Drivers can customize power distribution for different driving conditions, whether on the track or a winding road.
Adaptive M Suspension
- The electronically controlled suspension system adjusts in real-time to provide the perfect balance between comfort and sportiness.
- Enhances handling precision by automatically adapting damping force based on road conditions and driving style.
Regenerative Braking System
- Captures energy during braking and converts it into electrical power to recharge the battery.
- Improves efficiency without compromising braking performance.
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
Thanks to its plug-in hybrid system, the 2025 BMW M5 offers significant improvements in fuel efficiency compared to previous gasoline-only models. While official fuel economy ratings may vary based on driving habits and conditions, the hybrid powertrain allows for:
- Lower fuel consumption during daily driving when using electric assistance
- The ability to drive emission-free in city centers using Electric Mode.
Design and Features
Exterior Design: A Bold and Aggressive Look
1. Wider and More Muscular Stance
- Compared to the previous F90 M5, the G90 M5 has a wider body with flared wheel arches, giving it an aggressive and planted stance.
2. Redesigned Front Fascia
- The front features a sculpted, aerodynamically optimized bumper with larger air intakes, ensuring better cooling for the twin-turbo V8 and hybrid components.
3. M-Specific LED Headlights
- Optional Shadowline headlights add a darker, sportier look.
4. Staggered Wheel Setup
- The M5 rides on a staggered wheel setup, with 20-inch front wheels and 21-inch rear wheels, wrapped in high-performance tires for maximum grip.
- Available in multiple finishes, including a forged lightweight alloy option for reduced unsprung weight.
5. Quad Exhaust and Hybrid Badge
- The signature quad exhaust system remains, with black chrome-finished exhaust tips, emphasizing the car’s performance pedigree.
- Unique hybrid badging on the fenders and trunk signals the M5’s new electrified powertrain.
Interior Design: Luxury Meets Technology
1. BMW Curved Display & iDrive 8.5
- The centerpiece of the dashboard is BMW’s Curved Display, which merges a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.
- The display is customizable, allowing drivers to see performance data, navigation, and hybrid system information in real time.
2. M-Specific Digital Cockpit
The instrument cluster offers M-specific displays, including:
- Hybrid power distribution
- Real-time G-force meter
- M-Mode configurations for performance driving
3. High-Quality Materials & Customization
- The M5’s interior is wrapped in premium leather, carbon fiber, and aluminum trim.
- Standard Merino leather seats with M-color contrast stitching elevate the luxurious feel.
4. M Carbon Bucket Seats (Optional)
- Feature integrated headrests with illuminated M logos and extended side bolsters for maximum stability.
5. Bowers & Wilkins Sound System
- Wilkins Surround Sound System provides studio-quality audio for an immersive experience.
6. Four-Zone Climate Control & Heated Steering Wheel
- Rear passengers benefit from dedicated climate control zones for personalized comfort.
- The M leather-wrapped steering wheel is heated and features carbon fiber paddle shifters.
Technology & Connectivity Features
1. BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant
- Drivers can use voice commands like “Hey BMW” to adjust settings, control navigation, or even check hybrid battery levels.
2. M-Specific Head-Up Display
- Displays speed, navigation, hybrid system info, and shift indicators directly onto the windshield.
3. Remote Software Updates & Over-the-Air Upgrades
- BMW regularly pushes software updates that enhance infotainment, hybrid efficiency, and driving dynamics.
4. Smartphone Integration & Digital Key
- Supports wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
- BMW Digital Key allows drivers to unlock/start the car using a compatible smartphone or smartwatch.
Safety & Driver Assistance Features
1. Driving Assistance Professional Package (Optional)
Includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Traffic Jam Assist for semi-autonomous driving
2. Parking Assistance Package
- 360-degree surround-view camera with 3D visualization.
3. Collision Avoidance & Emergency Braking
- Front collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
- Active emergency braking to mitigate accidents.
Weight and Handling Considerations
Why Is the 2025 M5 Heavier?
1. Hybrid System Components
- 18.6 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (located under the trunk area).
- Electric motor integrated within the transmission.
- Additional cooling systems for both the internal combustion engine and hybrid powertrain.
2. Luxury and Technology Features
- More high-tech materials in the cabin, including a larger curved display, enhanced sound system, and advanced driver assistance features.
Handling and Suspension Upgrades to Counteract Weight
1. Adaptive M Suspension Pro
- Provides a balance between comfort and performance, adapting to smooth highways or aggressive track driving.
- The intelligent AWD system distributes power dynamically between the front and rear wheels for maximum grip and stability.
- Enthusiasts can switch to 2WD mode (rear-wheel drive only) for a more traditional M5 driving experience, allowing for controlled drifts and greater agility.
2. Wider Track and Improved Weight Distribution
- The G90 M5 features a wider stance than its predecessor, helping with stability and reducing body roll.
- While the hybrid system adds weight, BMW engineers have positioned the battery low and centrally to improve the car’s center of gravity and weight distribution.
3. High-Performance Braking System
Given the additional weight, BMW has equipped the new M5 with:
- Larger M Compound brakes as standard.
- Regenerative braking system, which helps recharge the battery while slowing the car down.
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