The new bodywork has the kind of subtle sportiness BMW’s uber-sedan is known for, with big engine-feeding air intakes in the front fascia, signature “M-gills” on the fenders, bulging wheel arches and quad exhaust pipes.
Mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (rumor has it a manual is on the way, too) the M5 is good for a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, thanks to a healthy 502 lb-ft of torque. The new generation brings a high-revving 4.4-liter V8 engine with an M TwinPower Turbo package that delivers an impressive 560 hp at 6,000 – 7,000 rpm and a peak torque of 502 lb-ft from 1,500 rpm. The model will sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and, when the speed limiter is removed, is capable of hitting an impressive top speed of 190 mph. Despite these impressive performance numbers, the car will deliver an estimated fuel economy of 28.5 mpg.
Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, but an optional M Driver’s Package unlocks the governor and allows the M5 to reach 190 mph. BMW's official efficiency figures for the 2012 M5 say it can offer a fuel economy of up to 28.5 mpg with a 232 g/km CO2 emissions level.The M5's main competitors are the Euro-only Audi RS6 (twin-turbocharged V-10), Cadillac CTS-V (supercharged V-8), and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG (naturally aspirated V-8). The current M5 is losing its appeal among this group, and the game will definitely get more interesting with BMW's next entry.
2012 BMW M5 - The new model is set to hit showrooms in spring 2012.
2012 BMW M5
