The automotive world often anticipates the arrival of a new BMW M5 with bated breath. However, the initial reaction to the latest iteration has been somewhat muted, even tinged with disappointment. While still undeniably powerful, questions arise about whether the New M5 truly lives up to the legacy of its predecessors and if it represents a step forward, or perhaps a sidestep, in the evolution of this iconic performance sedan.
One of the first points of contention is the new M5’s performance relative to the outgoing model. While boasting impressive figures on paper, real-world comparisons reveal a surprising truth: the new M5 is, in some metrics, slower than its predecessor. In a world where progress is often measured in tenths of a second, this perceived lack of outright pace is a significant talking point among enthusiasts. When even a Tesla Plaid, a much lighter sedan in a different category, offers hypercar-level acceleration at a similar price point, the performance proposition of the new M5 comes under scrutiny.
Beyond outright speed, concerns extend to the overall engineering and design philosophy behind the new M5. There’s a sense that this model may be a product of compromise, a result of juggling market research, accounting constraints, and emissions regulations. The utilization of engines seemingly derived from the less popular XM models, coupled with carry-over braking components from previous generations, suggests a degree of parts bin engineering. The aesthetic choices, particularly the integration of ADAS sensors and the wider body styling, have also drawn criticism, with some observers noting a less elegant and more “pyramid-like” appearance compared to the sleek flared hips traditionally associated with the M5.
Furthermore, under the hood, the new M5’s engine, despite its larger displacement, produces less horsepower than some of its competitors, such as the AMG 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Coupled with an increase in weight, this further impacts the perceived agility and dynamism expected from an M5. The absence of a dedicated, aggressive launch mode that fully utilizes the battery power also feels like a missed opportunity to enhance performance and differentiate the car.
In conclusion, while the new M5 undoubtedly possesses impressive capabilities, it arrives with a sense of missed potential and compromises. The feeling persists that BMW could have delivered a more focused, more exhilarating machine. The dream of a manual, rear-wheel-drive M5 with 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque – a lighter, more driver-focused alternative – remains just that, a dream. Instead, we are presented with what some might consider a heavier, more complex, and ultimately, less inspiring “hippo” in the performance sedan landscape. For some, the allure of a wagon version might still be tempting, but for others, alternatives like the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, with its manual transmission and rear-wheel-drive configuration, are becoming increasingly compelling.
