BMW M5 2018 revealed ahead of Frankfurt
The sixth-generation BMW M5 has staked its claim for the title of best super-sedan in the world, with the latest M model combining increased engine outputs with a new torque-convertor automatic transmission and a trick all-wheel-drive system.
Expected to lob in Australia around April next year, the G30-series M5 is motivated by a heavily revised 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol unit, which punches out 441kW of power from 5600-6700rpm and 750Nm of torque between 1800-5600rpm.
These figures are up 18kW/70Nm on its predecessor in standard form, while the F10-series '30 Jahre' and 'Competition Edition' versions matched the latest M5's power figure but fell 50Nm short of its torque output.
However, the most drastic change is the addition of an M xDrive all-wheel-drive set-up for the first time, eschewing five generations of rear-wheel-drive traction.
As previously reported, drifters will be pleased to know this new arrangement comes with three modes – 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD – which allow the rear wheels varying degrees of slip.
The 2WD mode disengages the front axle altogether, as well as the stability control system, offering the type of cornering ability experienced in previous M5s. However, BMW says this set-up was mainly designed for use on race tracks.
Now paired to an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission with Drivelogic, the M5 offers the same quick, sharp gear shifts that were a hallmark of the outgoing model's seven-speed dual-clutch unit.
Combining these three major elements helps the M5 sprint from zero to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds while on the way to 200km/h in 11.1 seconds.
Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, but can be raised to 305km/h when the M Driver's Package is optioned.
Stopping power is handled by M compound brakes with blue-painted six-piston callipers up front and single-piston floating rotors at the rear.
Nevertheless, optional M carbon-ceramic brakes reduce overall weight by 23kg and come with gold-coloured callipers.
The double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspensions from the 5 Series carry over, but have been modified accordingly to accommodate for the M5's M xDrive set-up.
Despite its performance credentials, the M5 drinks 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle test while emitting 241 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.
Much of its efficiency is owing to a reduction in kerb weight by 15kg to 1855kg, thanks to the inclusion of a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic roof panel and a modified lightweight exhaust system.
The Bavarian carmaker's M division has waved its wand over the 5 Series sedan's exterior styling, adding an aggressive front bumper with large air intakes, as well as a chunky rear diffuser with quad exhaust pipes.
Finished in 'Orbit Grey', the M5's standard 19-inch five-double-spoke alloy wheels are shod with 275/40 and 285/40 tyres at the front and rear respectively.
Nevertheless, larger 20-inch seven-double-spoke rims wrapped in 275/35 (front) and 285/35 (rear) rubber are on the options list.
Inside, changes extend to a new M gear selector and sports front seats, as well as red-coloured start/stop engine and steering wheel-mounted M1/M2 driving mode buttons.
According to BMW, the M5 will available with all of the safety and driver assistance equipment found in the rest of the 5 Series range, meaning autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are certainties.
From launch, the M5 is set to be offered in special First Edition guise, which will be limited to 400 units globally. BMW Australia has already expressed interest in securing a sample of these vehicles for the local market.
Each M5 First Edition will have exclusive 'Frozen Dark Red Metallic' paint, as well as high-gloss 'Shadow Line' trim for the kidney grille, M gills and quad exhaust tips. Additionally, the aforementioned 20-inch alloys will also be included.
Cabin upgrades will extend to piano black finishes, M multifunction seats, 'Smoke White' full-leather upholstery with red stitching and an individually-numbered build plate.
There will be no shortage of competitors for the incoming M5, with the 450kW/850Nm Mercedes-AMG E63 S and 445kW/700Nm Audi RS7 Sportback Performance ready and raring to go.
Australian pricing will be announced closer to the M5's local launch, but is likely to be on par with the E63 S' sticker price of $239,900 before on-road costs. Full specification has not been determined yet.
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