Thanks to the internet, we have had a few leaked images and data of what the next iteration of one of the greatest performance sedans would look and feel like. Well, BMW has officially revealed the sixth-generation M5, and there are some major headlines.
The biggest of which probably being that, for the first time, the F90 M5 is available with BMW’s M-specific xDrive system, the all-wheel-drive drivretrain usually found in the German automakers’ 4x4s. M5 drivers of the purist position do have the option to switch to rear-wheel-drive, with a cherry on top of this system being a supposed drift mode.
The power sent to the M5’s four wheels will be derived from a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine, which develops a grand total of 441 kW and 750 Nm of torque. With this power being sent to all four corners via an eight-speed automatic transmission, the new M5 takes the title of being the fastest production car that BMW has ever made, claiming a 0-100 time of 3,4 seconds, and while the car will be electronically limited to a top speed of 250 km/h, the optional M Driver’s package will see that set aside to achieve the true top speed of 305 km/h.
As usual in BMW M-performance vehicle, drivers have the ability to adjust all facets of the cars technical to enjoy a preferred ride and driving experience. On top of the three different M xDrive modes, drivers can choose from three settings on the Dynamic Stability Control, and three modes (Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus) to determine damper control and the Servotronic steering. The engine characteristics can also be altered according to preference.
Design wise, the M5 has undergone a few changes to the exterior of the 5-Series, boasting redesigned side panels and a front bumper. On the back, the rear bumper is realigned to fit four tailpipes, and to save weight, the M5 boasts a bonnet made from aluminium, and a roof made with plastic reinforced with carbon fibre. Additional weight can be saved with the optional extra of carbon ceramic brake calipers, donned in a shade of gold and shedding 23 kg off the gross weight of the car.
The new BMW M5 will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2018, with pricing to be listed by the end of this year. BMW will also produce 400 units of a limited-edition M5 simply entitled the First, which will feature a Frozen Dark Red Metallic Paintwork.
We can expect the First Edition to also reach South Africa, though in very limited numbers.
