The BMW M5 is more than just a car—it’s a statement of power, luxury, and engineering excellence. As a high-performance variant of the iconic BMW 5 Series, the M5 has carved a niche for itself in the world of sports sedans since its inception in 1984. Revered for its ability to blend everyday usability with track-ready dynamics, the M5 has evolved over the decades into a technological marvel that appeals to enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. The latest iteration of the BMW M5, introduced as part of the seventh generation (G90), brings a bold new chapter to its storied legacy with a hybrid powertrain, cutting-edge features, and a design that exudes aggression and sophistication. Launched in India as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), this sedan is a testament to BMW’s M division’s relentless pursuit of perfection, offering drivers an exhilarating experience wrapped in a package of refined elegance.
What sets the BMW M5 apart is its ability to cater to dual personalities. On one hand, it’s a comfortable, tech-laden sedan suitable for daily commutes or long highway cruises. On the other, it’s a beast waiting to be unleashed, capable of delivering blistering acceleration and razor-sharp handling. With a rich history spanning nearly four decades, the M5 has consistently raised the bar for performance sedans, and the current model continues that tradition by integrating a hybrid system without compromising its core ethos. In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth look at what makes the M5 a standout, alongside its closest competitors in the market.
Technical Specifications
The BMW M5 is powered by a sophisticated hybrid powertrain that combines a traditional combustion engine with electric assistance, delivering unmatched performance. Below is a comprehensive table outlining its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, with details verified for accuracy as of March 12, 2025.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | M TwinPower Turbo V8 + Electric Motor (M HYBRID System) |
| Displacement | 4395 cc |
| Max Power | 727 PS (Combined Output: 600 PS from V8 + 197 PS from Electric Motor) |
| Max Torque | 1000 Nm (Combined: 800 Nm from V8 + 280 Nm from Electric Motor) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed M Steptronic Automatic with Drivelogic |
| Drivetrain | M xDrive (Full Variable All-Wheel Drive) |
| 0-100 kmph | 3.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 305 kmph (with M Driver’s Package; 250 kmph standard) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Hybrid) |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 9-10 kmpl (Estimated, varies with driving mode) |
| Emission Norm Compliance | BS6 Phase 2 |
| Suspension (Front) | Adaptive M Suspension |
| Suspension (Rear) | Adaptive M Suspension with Rear-Wheel Steering |
| Brakes (Front & Rear) | M Compound Brakes (Ventilated Discs) |
| Tyre Size | Front: 285/40 R20, Rear: 295/35 R21 |
| Wheel Type | Alloy Wheels (M Design) |
| Length / Width / Height | 5096 mm / 1970 mm / 1478 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3006 mm |
| Kerb Weight | ~2435 kg (Due to Hybrid System) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Boot Space | 466 litres |
These specifications highlight the BMW M5’s engineering prowess, blending a high-revving V8 with an electric motor to achieve a staggering 727 PS, making it one of the most powerful sedans in its class. The adaptive suspension and rear-wheel steering further enhance its agility, while the M xDrive system ensures optimal power distribution for both performance and stability.
Variants
The BMW M5 is offered in limited variants globally, with India receiving it as a single, fully-loaded model due to its CBU status. Below is a table summarizing the variant available in India, based on data from CarDekho and ZigWheels.
| Variant Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| BMW M5 Sedan (G90) | M HYBRID Powertrain, M Exterior Package, Adaptive M Suspension, Rear-Wheel Steering, Full LED Lights, 20-21” M Alloy Wheels, Touchscreen Infotainment with BMW OS 8.5, M Sport Seats, Ambient Lighting |
Currently, BMW offers the M5 in India as a single variant, equipped with all the bells and whistles expected from an M car. Unlike some markets where additional trims like the M5 Competition or Touring (estate) might be available, the Indian market gets the standard M5 Sedan with the hybrid setup as the sole offering. This streamlined approach ensures that buyers receive the pinnacle of performance and luxury without the complexity of multiple configurations.
Price in Metro Cities
The BMW M5 commands a premium price, reflecting its status as a high-performance luxury sedan. Below is a table detailing its on-road prices in major Indian metro cities as of March 2025, compiled from CarWale and CarDekho. Prices include ex-showroom cost, RTO, insurance, and additional taxes, which vary by location.
| City | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹ 2.29 Crore |
| Mumbai | ₹ 2.35 Crore |
| Bangalore | ₹ 2.33 Crore |
| Chennai | ₹ 2.31 Crore |
| Kolkata | ₹ 2.28 Crore |
The ex-showroom price of the BMW M5 in India starts at ₹ 1.99 Crore, but on-road prices escalate due to taxes, registration, and insurance, pushing it well above ₹ 2 Crore in metro cities. Mumbai, with its higher tax structure, sees the highest on-road price, while Kolkata offers a marginally lower figure. These prices position the M5 as a luxury purchase, targeting affluent buyers who value performance and prestige.
About the BMW M5
Design and Aesthetics
The BMW M5’s exterior design is a masterclass in combining aggression with elegance. The seventh-generation model adopts BMW’s modern design language, featuring a larger kidney grille with illuminated surrounds, sharp full-LED adaptive headlights, and a sculpted hood that hints at the power beneath. The M-specific exterior package includes aerodynamic bumpers, side skirts, and a rear diffuser, all crafted to enhance both aesthetics and performance. The car sits low to the ground, with a wide stance accentuated by 20-inch front and 21-inch rear M alloy wheels, giving it a muscular, planted look. Available in striking colors like Frozen Deep Grey and Marina Bay Blue, the M5 exudes a commanding presence on the road.
Inside, the BMW M5 offers a cockpit that’s both driver-focused and luxurious. The cabin is adorned with premium materials like Merino leather, carbon-fiber trim, and Alcantara accents. The M Sport seats, with their bolstered design and heating/ventilation options, provide exceptional comfort and support during spirited drives. A curved display integrates a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, running BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5. Ambient lighting with customizable colors adds a touch of personalization, while the three-spoke M steering wheel, complete with paddle shifters and red M1/M2 buttons, keeps the driver in complete control.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
At the heart of the BMW M5 lies its M HYBRID powertrain—a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor. This combination delivers a jaw-dropping 727 PS and 1000 Nm of torque, propelling the sedan from 0-100 kmph in just 3.5 seconds. The 8-speed M Steptronic transmission ensures lightning-fast gear changes, while the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system offers variable power distribution, including a 2WD mode for purists who crave rear-wheel-drive thrills. With a top speed of 305 kmph (with the optional M Driver’s Package), the M5 is a force to be reckoned with.
The driving experience is further elevated by the Adaptive M Suspension, which adjusts damping in real-time to suit road conditions or driving style. Rear-wheel steering enhances agility, making the M5 surprisingly nimble despite its size and weight (approximately 2435 kg, owing to the hybrid system). Multiple driving modes—ranging from Efficient (emphasizing electric power) to Sport Plus (unlocking full performance)—allow drivers to tailor the car’s behavior. The M Compound brakes provide immense stopping power, ensuring confidence even at high speeds. On the road, the M5 feels like a beast tamed for daily use, with a dual nature that’s both exhilarating and practical.
Technology and Features
The BMW M5 is a technological tour de force, packed with features that enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system. Gesture control, voice commands, and a head-up display keep the driver connected without distraction. Safety is paramount, with features like Level 2 ADAS (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking), a 360-degree camera, and parking assist.
The hybrid system includes an 18.6 kWh battery, offering an electric-only range of around 60-70 km (WLTP), though real-world figures may vary. This allows for silent, emission-free driving in urban settings, a nod to sustainability without sacrificing the M5’s performance heritage. The car’s regenerative braking system and intelligent energy management further optimize efficiency, though the ARAI-claimed mileage of 9-10 kmpl reflects its focus on power over frugality.
Practicality and Comfort
Despite its performance credentials, the BMW M5 remains a practical sedan. With seating for five and a 466-litre boot, it’s well-suited for family use or long trips. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, thanks to the 3006 mm wheelbase, while the cabin’s sound insulation ensures a quiet ride when cruising. However, the hybrid system’s added weight and the low ground clearance (tuned for performance) may pose challenges on India’s uneven roads or speed bumps.
Ownership Experience
Owning a BMW M5 is a commitment to luxury and performance, but it comes with considerations. Maintenance costs are high, given its complex hybrid powertrain and premium components. BMW offers a comprehensive warranty (typically 2-3 years, extendable) and service packages, but spare parts and repairs can be expensive in India due to its CBU status. Fuel economy, while improved by the hybrid system, remains modest for a car of this caliber, and buyers should expect frequent visits to the pump during enthusiastic driving. Nonetheless, the M5’s resale value tends to hold strong among enthusiasts, making it a worthwhile investment for those who cherish its blend of attributes.
Close Competitors
The BMW M5 operates in a niche segment, but it faces stiff competition from other high-performance sedans and luxury cars. Here’s an in-depth look at its closest rivals in India:
Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance
Priced at ₹ 1.95 Crore (ex-showroom), the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance is the M5’s closest direct competitor. It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain producing 680 PS, slightly less than the M5’s 727 PS. While it accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 3.4 seconds, its four-cylinder engine lacks the visceral V8 roar of the M5. The AMG offers a sporty yet plush interior, advanced tech, and a rear-wheel-drive layout, appealing to buyers who prefer Mercedes’ brand of luxury. However, its smaller size and less imposing presence make it less of a statement than the M5.
BMW i7
Within BMW’s own lineup, the BMW i7 (₹ 2.03 Crore ex-showroom) poses an alternative for buyers seeking electric luxury. This all-electric sedan delivers 544 PS and a range of over 600 km, focusing on silent, effortless performance rather than track-ready dynamics. Its opulent interior, featuring a 31.3-inch rear theatre screen, outshines the M5 in luxury, but it lacks the visceral driving experience and hybrid versatility of the M5.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (₹ 1.79 Crore ex-showroom) targets buyers prioritizing comfort over performance. With powertrains ranging up to 503 PS in the S 63 AMG variant, it’s less potent than the M5 but excels in refinement and rear-seat luxury. Features like air suspension and a Burmester 4D sound system make it a limousine-like experience, contrasting with the M5’s driver-centric focus.
Porsche Taycan Turbo
The Porsche Taycan Turbo (₹ 1.89 Crore ex-showroom) is an electric rival, offering 871 PS and a 0-100 kmph time of 2.8 seconds. Its low-slung design and superior handling make it a track star, but its fully electric nature and limited rear space cater to a different audience than the hybrid, practical M5.
Comparison Summary
The BMW M5 stands out for its hybrid V8 powertrain, offering a balance of raw performance and efficiency that competitors like the AMG C 63 and Taycan can’t fully match. While the i7 and S-Class lean toward luxury, the M5’s combination of track-ready dynamics, all-wheel-drive versatility, and sedan practicality gives it a unique edge. Its closest rival, the AMG C 63, comes close in performance but falls short in engine character and size, making the M5 the preferred choice for buyers seeking a no-compromise sports sedan.
Final Thoughts!
The BMW M5 is a triumph of automotive engineering, blending the ferocity of a 727 PS hybrid powertrain with the sophistication of a luxury sedan. Its technical prowess, striking design, and cutting-edge features make it a standout in the high-performance segment, while its practicality ensures it’s more than just a weekend toy. Priced between ₹ 2.28-2.35 Crore on-road in metro cities, it’s a significant investment, but one that delivers an unmatched driving experience. Against competitors like the Mercedes-AMG C 63, Porsche Taycan, and even BMW’s own i7, the M5 holds its own as a versatile, exhilarating machine that appeals to both the heart and the mind. For those who crave power, precision, and prestige, the BMW M5 remains an icon that continues to redefine the sports sedan category.
