2025 BMW M5 becomes a 535kW PHEV V8 weapon

Here it is: the first hybrid BMW M5.

Now the most powerful example of the nameplate in its 40-year history, the G90-series BMW M5 adopts plug-in hybrid assistance, leading to increased outputs but lower tailpipe emissions.

It’s due in Australia between October and December 2024, with local pricing set to be announced in July.

Though its engine is still a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, it’s the new ‘S68’ mill from the XM SUV, rather than the S63 which powered the outgoing performance sedan.

Despite power being down 30kW compared to its M5 Competition predecessor, the new M5’s V8 engine power and torque outputs of 430kW and 750Nm respectively are supplemented by an electric motor.

Integrated into its eight-speed automatic transmission, the motor brings total system outputs to 535kW and 1000Nm, making this the most powerful M5 ever

It’s only just shy of the XM Label Red’s 550kW power figure, with the SUV remaining as BMW’s horsepower hero for now.

With drive sent to all four wheels, BMW claims the new M5 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds – two-tenths slower than the outgoing M5 Competition.

This is due in part to the M5 PHEV tipping the scales at 2435kg, a massive 540kg gain compared to the M5 Competition, attributed largely to its battery pack.

All Australian-delivered examples will be fitted with the M Driver’s Package, which raises the M5’s top speed from 250km/h to 305km/h.

BMW claims it’s capable of driving up to 69km on electric power, courtesy of an 18.6kWh lithium-ion battery pack. 

As with BMW’s electric and plug-in hybrid models, there’s a unique acoustic noise generator when driving at low speeds in electric mode.

The BMW M5’s exterior design is, as expected, even more aggressive than the 5 Series upon which it’s based.

The kidney grille now incorporates a single bar across its width, while there are large lower air intakes and angular side vents.

At the rear, there’s an aggressive diffuser from which four 100mm exhaust tips protrude, while a subtle lip spoiler sits atop the boot lid.

We’re yet to see the highly anticipated M5 Touring, which will be the first M5 wagon since the E60/E61 generation that ended production in 2010.

New-look wheels measure 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, shod in 285/40 and 295/35 tyres, respectively, to offer an even wider contact patch and chunkier sidewall than its predecessor.

Under the skin there’s double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension, all controlled by adaptive dampers that can be electronically adjusted.

Inside the cabin, BMW’s Curved Display screen now features in the M5, mating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.9-inch infotainment screen.

The M5 uses BMW’s Operating System 8.5 software, which allows for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, a personal eSIM, over-the-air updates and My BMW App connectivity – the latter of which can link to the Digital Key Plus smartphone app.

A head-up display is standard.

Occupants are greeted with a new “welcome light carpet” projection that includes M-specific graphics, which can also play when departing the vehicle.

A flat-bottomed steering wheel with a red 12-o’clock marker features stitching in the BMW M colours, and is fitted with multiple buttons to control digital display and infotainment settings.

The M5’s power-adjustable sports seats are upholstered in Merino leather, claimed to be more comfortable than the previous generation’s seats.

Standard safety equipment includes adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot assist, speed sign recognition, rear cross-traffic assist, highway lane-centring and lane change assistance, and a surround-view camera.

More details about the BMW M5’s Australian specifications and pricing will be announced next month.

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