2025 BMW M5: A Symphony of Power and Precision (Edmunds Review)
The BMW M5 has long held a revered position in the automotive world, a benchmark for performance sedans that seamlessly blends everyday practicality with breathtaking speed. Now, in 2025, the legendary nameplate returns with a new iteration, promising a more refined and engaging driving experience than ever before. We at Edmunds had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of the 2025 M5, and we’re here to share our impressions.
A Familiar Yet Evolved Design
The 2025 M5 retains the familiar, aggressive silhouette that defines the M division’s design language. The signature kidney grilles, now slightly larger and more assertive, dominate the front fascia, flanked by sharp, laser-like headlights. The sculpted hood, with its prominent power bulge, hints at the potent engine lurking beneath.
Along the flanks, the M5 boasts muscular wheel arches that accommodate the standard 20-inch wheels, while the sloping roofline and pronounced rear haunches create a dynamic, athletic stance. At the rear, the signature quad exhaust tips emerge from a diffuser, emphasizing the car’s performance intentions.
The overall design, while undeniably bold, remains elegant and sophisticated, reflecting the M5’s dual nature as a high-performance machine and a luxurious daily driver.
A Tech-Forward Interior
Stepping inside the 2025 M5, you’re greeted by a luxurious and driver-focused cockpit. The dashboard is dominated by a massive curved display that houses both the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system. This innovative setup, dubbed BMW’s "iDrive 9," offers a clean and intuitive interface with crisp graphics and responsive touch controls.
The M5’s seats, available in a range of leather and Alcantara combinations, offer exceptional support and comfort, even on long drives. The driver-oriented layout places all controls within easy reach, while the generous use of high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail exudes a sense of craftsmanship.
The Heart of the Beast: A Hybrid Powertrain
The 2025 M5 marks a significant departure from its predecessors, embracing a hybrid powertrain that promises both electrifying performance and increased efficiency. Under the hood lies a potent 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing a heart-stopping 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.
But the real magic lies in the integration of a 150-horsepower electric motor, seamlessly working in tandem with the V8 to deliver an astonishing 750 horsepower and 663 lb-ft of torque. This potent combination allows the M5 to sprint from 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.2 seconds, catapulting it into the upper echelon of performance sedans.
The hybrid system doesn’t just enhance performance; it also improves fuel efficiency. The electric motor provides instant torque and regenerative braking capabilities, allowing the M5 to achieve an impressive combined fuel economy rating of 28 mpg.
A Symphony of Handling and Performance
The 2025 M5’s performance isn’t just about raw power; it’s about the seamless integration of power, handling, and technology. The car’s adaptive suspension, with electronically controlled dampers, provides a remarkable balance between comfort and agility. In Comfort mode, the ride is surprisingly compliant, absorbing road imperfections with ease. But switch to Sport or Sport Plus, and the M5 transforms into a precision instrument, reacting to every input with lightning-fast precision.
The steering, precise and responsive, provides excellent feedback, allowing you to feel every nuance of the road. The M5’s brakes, powerful and fade-resistant, provide unwavering confidence, ensuring that you can stop on a dime, even after repeated hard braking.
The M5’s handling is further enhanced by the standard xDrive all-wheel drive system, which intelligently distributes power to all four wheels, maximizing traction and stability. While the M5’s performance is undeniably thrilling, it remains remarkably composed and predictable, even when pushed to its limits.
The M5’s Technological Edge
The 2025 M5 isn’t just a powerful machine; it’s a technological marvel. The iDrive 9 system, with its intuitive interface and vast array of features, provides a seamless and engaging driving experience. The navigation system, with its real-time traffic information and advanced route planning, makes navigating even the most unfamiliar roads a breeze.
The M5 also boasts a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These features not only enhance safety but also make driving less stressful, especially during long commutes or highway driving.
The Verdict
The 2025 BMW M5 is a masterpiece of automotive engineering, a car that seamlessly blends power, luxury, and technology. It’s a machine that delivers an exhilarating driving experience while remaining surprisingly comfortable and practical for everyday use.
While the M5’s price tag might seem daunting, it’s a testament to the car’s exceptional build quality, performance, and technological prowess. For those seeking a performance sedan that can do it all, the 2025 M5 is undoubtedly the ultimate choice.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the 2025 M5’s performance and features:
Performance:
- Engine: 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 + Electric Motor
- Total Horsepower: 750 hp
- Total Torque: 663 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 190 mph
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: xDrive all-wheel drive
Features:
-
iDrive 9 infotainment system with:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 14.9-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Navigation with real-time traffic information
- Over-the-air software updates
-
Driver Assistance Features:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Automatic emergency braking
- Parking assist
-
Interior:
- Leather and Alcantara upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated rear seats
- Panoramic sunroof
- Head-up display
-
Exterior:
- Aggressive styling with M-specific design cues
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Carbon fiber roof
- Quad exhaust tips
Pros:
- Exhilarating performance: The hybrid powertrain delivers breathtaking acceleration and exhilarating driving dynamics.
- Luxurious interior: The M5’s cabin is a haven of comfort and refinement, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
- Advanced technology: iDrive 9 infotainment system and driver assistance features provide a seamless and engaging driving experience.
- Practicality: Despite its sporty nature, the M5 offers ample cargo space and comfortable seating for five passengers.
- Exceptional handling: The combination of xDrive all-wheel drive and adaptive suspension provides incredible grip and agility.
Cons:
- High price: The M5 is a premium vehicle with a hefty price tag.
- Fuel economy: While the hybrid system improves fuel efficiency, the M5 is still a gas-guzzler when driven aggressively.
- Large size: The M5’s size can be challenging in tight parking spaces or narrow streets.
- Competition: The M5 faces stiff competition from other high-performance sedans like the Mercedes-AMG E63 S and the Audi RS6 Avant.
Overall:
The 2025 BMW M5 is a phenomenal car that sets a new standard for performance sedans. It’s a machine that delivers an exhilarating driving experience while remaining surprisingly comfortable and practical for everyday use. If you’re looking for a car that can do it all, the M5 is a strong contender. However, its high price tag and gas-guzzling nature might deter some buyers.
Conclusion:
The 2025 BMW M5 is a testament to the German automaker’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and technology. It’s a car that embodies the spirit of M, delivering a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. While it’s not without its flaws, the M5 remains a compelling choice for discerning drivers who demand the best of the best.
