BMW M5 gains weight and loses its edge in performance

The latest model of the BMW M5, unveiled on March 31, 2025, represents a critical shift in the iconic sports sedan's design and performance. For the past 40 years, BMW has built a reputation on creating M5s that blend luxury with high-performance capabilities. However, this new model diverges from its predecessors, leading critics to suggest it has lost its way. This transition is marked by the integration of advanced technologies aimed at enhancing driving experiences, but, ironically, it results in a vehicle that feels heavier and less agile than earlier models. Under the hood, the M5 boasts a 4.4 L twin-turbocharged V8 engine capable of producing 577 hp alongside an electric motor contributing an additional 194 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. The combined M Hybrid powertrain achieves an impressive total of 717 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque, driving all four wheels. While the specifications suggest an incredibly powerful vehicle, the reality of driving this new M5 has raised questions about its handling dynamics and overall driving pleasure. Weighing in at approximately 5,400 lbs, the new M5 is heavier than its all-electric counterpart and about a thousand pounds more than the last generation. This weight gain, combined with a noticeable increase in size, leads to a vehicle that handles more like an SUV than a traditional sports sedan. Although the aesthetic changes, such as flared fenders and a more aggressive stance, arguably improve its visual appeal, they do not compensate for the diminished driving excitement that enthusiasts have come to expect from the model. Additionally, the interior features extensive technological advancements, including a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers numerous customization options. However, the user interface complicates basic tasks like adjusting climate controls, requiring drivers to focus on the screen rather than the road. While the car is equipped with multiple performance settings and can be tailored to individual driver preferences, the complexity and the shift towards digital controls may detract from the intuitive, driver-focused experience commonly associated with BMW’s brand. In conclusion, while the latest generation of the M5 showcases impressive technological advancements and powerful specifications, the conclusions drawn from its handling characteristics and the driving dynamics indicate a departure from the fundamental sports sedan identity established over the past four decades. As a result, the new M5 leaves some fans questioning whether the pursuit of more power justifies the increased weight and complexity that accompanies it.