2025 BMW M5: 717 HP Hybrid Super Sedan Review

The 2025 BMW M5 marks a bold evolution in the iconic super sedan’s lineage, fusing a thunderous twin-turbo V8 with a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system. This powerhouse delivers a staggering 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0-60 mph in as little as 3.0 seconds while offering up to 27 miles of electric-only driving. Despite a curb weight exceeding 5,200 pounds, advanced chassis tuning and all-wheel drive maintain its reputation for razor-sharp handling and luxury refinement.

Powertrain Innovation: V8 Muscle Meets Electric Surge

At the heart of the new M5 lies a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 577 horsepower on its own, augmented by a 145-kW electric motor integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. This setup yields combined figures of 717 hp and 738 lb-ft, surpassing the previous Competition model’s output while introducing seamless electrification. The 14.8-kWh battery enables practical EV mode for short commutes, with instant torque delivery mimicking pure electric acceleration off the line.

Real-world testing confirms explosive performance: MotorWeek clocked 0-60 mph in 3.1 seconds and a quarter-mile in 11.1 seconds at 129 mph, thanks to heavy EV-style propulsion blending into V8 fury. Car and Driver reported even quicker 3.0-second sprints, emphasizing the hybrid’s warp-drive capability. Launch control remains impeccably consistent, with shifts that are lightning-fast and interruption-free.

Chassis and Handling: Taming the Extra Mass

The M5’s prodigious power is matched by engineering feats to counter its 5,251-pound heft—a roughly 1,000-pound increase over the prior generation due to the hybrid hardware. Standard all-wheel drive with rear bias, an active rear differential, and customizable traction modes ensure versatility from composed cruising to rear-wheel-drive burnouts. Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires (285/295 widths) provide abundant grip, enabling 0.98 g on the skidpad.

Reviewers praise its cornering prowess: it feels nimble on twisty roads, gobbling apexes with uncanny agility despite its SUV-like width. The suspension balances suppleness for daily drives with firmness under load, while steering offers calm precision—though some note a lack of raw feel compared to rivals like the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. Braking is exemplary, halting from 60 mph in 115 feet, with optional carbon-ceramic upgrades ($8,500) minimizing fade during aggressive sessions.

• Key Handling Strengths: Balanced chassis, exceptional grip, confident trail braking.
• Drive Modes: Overwhelming options allow tailoring from pussycat compliance to track-ready aggression.
• Wagon Variant: The M5 Touring mirrors sedan dynamics with added practicality.

Interior Luxury and Cutting-Edge Technology

Inside, the M5 elevates BMW’s already upscale cabin with hybrid-specific interfaces and M-focused enhancements. The panoramic curved display integrates iDrive seamlessly, controlling everything from powertrain modes to augmented-reality navigation. Materials exude quality, with supportive M Sport seats offering grand touring comfort akin to “your grandfather’s favorite chair”.

Refinement shines: the powertrain is whisper-quiet in EV mode, and active noise cancellation tames V8 roar when desired. Rear space accommodates adults comfortably, though the battery slightly intrudes on trunk volume. Tech highlights include a head-up display, 360-degree cameras, and over-the-air updates, making it ideal for long hauls.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality: Hybrid Advantages

While EPA ratings of 11 mpg city/17 highway seem underwhelming—worse than the prior model’s 15/21—the plug-in system transforms usability. Real-world gains come from the 25-42 mile electric range (EPA/WLTP), yielding 50 MPGe combined and up to 26 mpg on highways for the Touring. Frequent charging maximizes savings over pure-petrol rivals, especially for urban duties.

MotorWeek observed 13.9 mpg in mixed testing (premium fuel required), underscoring the need for EV utilization. Home charging is straightforward, with DC fast-charging options for longer trips.

Pricing, Rivals, and Ownership Verdict

Starting around £111,885 ($120,000+ est.), the M5 undercuts some supercars while offering four-door versatility. Key rivals include the Mercedes-AMG E63, Audi RS7, and Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. It edges them in hybrid efficiency and all-electric poise but trails pure ICE models in agility due to weight.

Ownership pros: Unmatched dual-purpose appeal, future-proof tech. Cons: Steep price with options, complexity of modes. Warranty covers hybrid components robustly.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Mind-bending acceleration, balanced ride/handling, usable EV range, luxurious interior.
• Cons: Hefty weight dulls some playfulness, numb steering, thirsty without charging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2025 BMW M5 faster than the previous model?

Yes, with 717 hp vs. 617 hp, it achieves similar or better 0-60 times (3.0-3.4 sec) despite extra weight, though quarter-mile lags slightly behind the CS variant.

How much electric range does it offer?

Up to 27 miles EPA or 42 miles WLTP, ideal for daily errands.

Is the M5 Touring as capable?

Absolutely—identical powertrain and dynamics, plus more cargo space.

What’s the top speed?

155 mph standard, 190 mph with M Driver’s Package.

Does the weight hurt performance?

Not significantly; AWD and tech compensate for exceptional road speed.

Final Driving Impressions

The 2025 M5 seamlessly blends supercar thrills with executive sedan poise, proving hybrid tech elevates rather than compromises its M DNA. It’s a bad-ass super sedan for autobahn storms or school runs.