Overview
BMWs speedy M5 was re-launched in April this year with even greater hi tech credentials.
The most powerful 5-series saloon it has a naturally aspirated five-litre V10 engine.
Basically the M5 is a super-saloon with previously unheard of bhp.
Specification
Zero to 100 km/h is accomplished in under five seconds and can be even faster still if the vehicles launch control is activated.
When you consider this vehicles impressive credentials it becomes clear BMW intended to provide a supercar masquerading as a four-door saloon when they conceived of the latest M5.
Compared to the normal BMW 5-Series the new M5 is set up to be even more solid and aggressive in appearance thanks to some subtle redesign. A small rear spoiler, large alloy wheels and the M5s trademark four-pipe exhaust system compliment the rear end - giving indications of the cars serious performance credibility.
Besides the engine developments Formula One technology is carried over to the seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) - another first for BMW.
Reviews
Heres a summary of some of the industry views bubbling up.
The Automobile Association, for example, has said that at around 62,705 the initial expense involved will be a concern as will the fact that at 19.1 mpg the V10 is a demanding engine before going on to add: Considering the cars performance potential its surprisingly easy to live with on a day-to-day basis. The AA also say the various electronic gadgets could be viewed as a distraction by some and that handling requires some practice.
Autocar magazines road test confirmed power is the nature of the game with the M5: The hairs on the backs of my hands went stiff when the full range of abilities of the M5s V10 engine and its astonishing transmission became apparent...
It has been 20 years since the launch of the first BMW M5 and as sales have increased so has the power on offer. After three generations and more than 35,000 M5s sold it still appears to be offering something unique. But what do our reviewers think?
Vital Statistics
Engine: 4999cc.
Power: 507bhp.
Transmission: Seven-speed manual.
Fuel: 19.1mpg (combined).
Acceleration 0-62mph: 4.7sec.
Max speed: 204mph.
Insurance Group: 20.
