2018 BMW M5

THE NEW BMW M5 WITH M XDRIVE

Munich. The new BMW M5 (fuel consumption combined: 10.5 l/100 km 26.9 mpg imp; CO2 emissions combined: 241 g/km) is the most exciting and emotionally enthralling high-performance sedan from this model range ever released by BMW M. The sixth generation of this fantastically sporty machine will be launched in 2017 complete with the M xDrive system, whose all-wheel-drive technology enables the business sedan's dynamic prowess to be experienced in even greater depth. Quite apart from its notably enhanced performance, the new BMW M5 also boasts far greater everyday practicality and supreme poise. It therefore constitutes another evolutionary step in every respect for an exceedingly successful vehicle concept that first emerged in 1984 with the launch of the original BMW M5.

A superior drivetrain: M xDrive.
High-performance driving dynamics on the one hand paired with the everyday practicality and qualities of a business sedan on the other: this neatly sums up M's traditional approach to model development – one which strives to harmonise individual drive components into a flawless whole.

'The core component of M xDrive is a central intelligence unit with M-specific software delivering integrated control of longitudinal and lateral dynamics. The new drivetrain technology – making its debut on the new BMW M5 – therefore combines all of the agility and precision of standard rear-wheel drive with the supreme poise and traction of the all-wheel-drive system,' explains Frank van Meel, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW M GmbH. 'As a result, the new BMW M5 can be piloted with the familiar blend of sportiness and unerring accuracy on both the race track and the open road – and in various weather conditions, too.'

The M xDrive system enables a wonderfully fleet-footed rear-biased set-up by only bringing the front wheels into play when the rear wheels aren't able to transmit any more power to the road and additional tractive force is required. Even when it is being driven in a particularly sporty manner and unleashing high levels of power, the new BMW M5 with M xDrive behaves predictably and can be controlled with ease by the driver, paving the way for an even richer experience of the business sedan's extraordinary performance capabilities.

The driver can choose from five different configurations based on combinations of the DSC modes (DSC on, MDM, DSC off) and M xDrive modes (4WD, 4WD Sport, 2WD).

The configurations allow the drive system's characteristics to be tailored to both the driver's personal preferences and the nature of the journey. Purists can opt for classical rear-wheel drive by completely deactivating the all-wheel-drive system.

All in all, the new drive system engenders class-beating handling dynamics accompanied by unrestricted everyday usability. This is made possible by a central intelligence unit with M-specific software for integrated control of longitudinal and lateral dynamics. The result is optimum performance in each of the different configurations. With the advent of M xDrive, the engineers have succeeded in fusing the classical qualities of standard rear-wheel drive with the benefits of the sports-focused BMW xDrive.

This all adds up to a sense of dynamic flair that astounds even seasoned DTM drivers: 'I'm a big M5 fan,' explains BMW works driver Timo Glock, for example. 'I often drive long distances and I need plenty of room for my family, but I wouldn't wish to give up the chance to explore the car's sporting character. With M xDrive, not only can the new BMW M5 be steered with the usual precision and agility, it also offers me something I really appreciate, living in Switzerland: a noticeable boost to traction and controllability – even when driving in particular environmental conditions, such as wet weather and snow, and in both everyday driving situations and when pushing the car to its performance limits.'

Sportiness and smoothness: eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.


In addition, the transmission offers impressively smooth start-off characteristics, makes manoeuvring easier and has a wide ratio spread that helps to keep fuel consumption low. The driver has the usual choice of three shift programs, as well as the option of changing gear manually using shift paddles on the steering wheel and even performing sporty multiple downshifts. The eight-speed M Steptronic forms part of a new, finely honed overall package that turns the BMW M5 into a high-performance sedan offering genuine everyday practicality, and also resolves the apparent contradiction between sportiness and comfort.

More powerful and more efficient: the newly improved turbocharged V8 engine.

Lurking under the bonnet of the new BMW M5 is the latest version of the 4.4-litre V8 engine featuring M TwinPower Turbo technology. The further improved high-revving engine outperforms its predecessor in terms of power output and torque. The enhancements implemented by the engineers include higher injection pressure, new turbochargers, more powerful lubrication and cooling systems, plus a modified, lighter exhaust system, which generates an even clearer rendition of the unmistakable M soundtrack. Thus equipped, the V8 propels the sedan to still greater feats of dynamic performance. However, it is the combination of engine, M xDrive and eight-speed M Steptronic, even more than the upgrading of engine's technical specifications, that really sharpens the high-performance character of the new BMW M5; it takes the dynamic driving experience to a far higher level than the relatively moderate increase in power alone would allow.

Hardware and software with an M-specific set-up.


The principal hardware components of M xDrive are based on those of the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and the Active M Differential, while the M-specific driving dynamics control software ensures innovative deployment. The drivetrain has been reinforced for greater rigidity and strength to factor in the high torque, rear-biased configuration and 2WD option. While the transfer case splits a portion of the engine's drive between the front and rear wheels in a smoothly adjustable ratio (depending on requirements), the Active M Differential is responsible for then distributing the drive between the rear wheels. This active control element is part of the M xDrive system's functionality and its locking effect can be varied between zero and 100 per cent, as the situation demands. This ensures enhanced traction, agility and handling stability when the car is being driven in a very sporty manner or on roads with differing levels of grip – i.e. exactly when it is needed. Since M xDrive includes M-specific dynamics control capability, stabilising interventions from the DSC system are only required in extreme situations. And so the engine's huge power can be converted into propulsive force with virtually zero losses. The upshot of all this is that the new BMW M5 can be guided with even greater precision and directional accuracy, responds sensitively and directly to the driver's inputs and thus requires few steering corrections when driving at the limit.

À la carte handling dynamics: 4WD, 4WD Sport or 2WD.

Drivers with an even greater thirst for sporty action can tap into the car's full performance potential by engaging a second configuration: M Dynamic Mode (MDM) with the M xDrive system's 4WD Sport mode has been configured for ultra-sporty and dynamic handling. As a result, the new BMW M5 becomes far more agile than in the standard configuration and channels even more drive to the rear wheels. At the same time, MDM permits far greater wheel slip, allowing the enthusiastic driver to send the sedan into a controlled drift and experience the remarkable agility of the new BMW M5 – a familiar trait of M models – to the full. The onset of oversteer is telegraphed in good time while the linear increase of sideslip angle makes it easily controllable, particularly as MDM aids stability at the limits of performance.

With DSC deactivated, there is a choice of three modes (4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD). In 4WD mode, M xDrive has a neutral set-up that lends itself to optimum controllability and outstanding traction. This is of particular benefit on roads that are in mediocre or poor condition. At the same time, 4WD mode also lets the driver explore the dynamic performance capabilities of the new BMW M5 with the DSC control system deactivated.

Engaging 4WD Sport mode alters the M xDrive configuration for even greater agility and sportiness. The blend of absolute precision, delightful handling and phenomenal traction it reveals is a sure-fire route to supreme driving pleasure. 4WD Sport mode's set-up has been fine-tuned with the assistance of highly experienced specialists and is geared towards track use in dry conditions.

With 2WD mode activated, the new BMW M5 offers the keen driver the experience of driving a high-performance sedan with rear-wheel drive only, delivering a pure form of driving enjoyment that captivates in its own unique way. The combination of incredibly agile handling, terrific feel and exceptional controllability can be attributed to the Active M Differential.

The display and control concept.

The driver-focused cockpit of the new BMW M5 now has an even clearer layout courtesy of the lowered instrument panel with freestanding Control Display. The M-style instrument cluster featuring two classical circular dials and red needles also accommodates an additional digital speedometer on the left-hand side, while the rev counter on the right includes a variable rpm pre-warning field and sporty shift lights when the Head-Úp Display is switched on. In the centre of the instrument cluster, the driver will find the readouts for the gear selection, Drivelogic shift program, M xDrive mode and M1/M2 set-up, plus the drive and suspension settings currently engaged. When the Head-Úp Display is activated, key information can be projected onto the windscreen so it appears in the driver's immediate field of view. The graphics of the M view option developed for dynamic driving have been completely revised and M view now also allows navigation information to be displayed, if desired. The projection area of the Head-Úp Display in the new BMW M5 has increased in size by around 70 per cent.

On top of the redesigned gear selector can be found the three-position rocker switch for selecting the Drivelogic shift programs. The P button below it for the parking lock is also within easy reach. In typical M fashion, the gears of the new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission can be changed using both the selector lever and the shift paddles on the steering wheel, while drivers can also opt for the automated D mode. In the manual S mode, meanwhile, the M Steptronic allows multiple downshifts, resulting in a significant reduction in shift times when performing sporty driving manoeuvres, such as braking hard into corners.

As on the outgoing model, the M sports steering wheel includes two individually configurable M Drive buttons (M1, M2) that allow the driver to retrieve a previously stored set-up. The buttons have been completely redesigned and are prominently located. This ensures they are even easier to reach and, in customary M style, offer excellent speed of use. As well as the M xDrive mode and the Drivelogic shift program, the engine and damper mapping, Servotronic steering characteristics and readouts in the Head-Úp Display can also be memorised. The desired settings can be stored via the iDrive menu. An icon in the instrument cluster indicates to the driver when a stored M1/M2 set-up is activated.

A short press of the DSC button in the centre console activates M Dynamic Mode (MDM) and a long press engages DSC off mode. When DSC off mode is activated, the M xDrive settings menu appears in the Control Display at the same time. Plus, it is now possible to select 4WD, 4WD Sport or 2WD mode using either the iDrive Controller or the touchscreen function. The mode activated is displayed in the instrument cluster and can also be saved as part of an M Drive set-up...

Source - BMW

•Sixth generation of the BMW M5 introduced by BMW M GmbH.
•Most advanced version yet of the 4.4-litre V8 engine with TwinPower Turbo technology.
•Now equipped with innovative M xDrive drivetrain system offering superior driving dynamics and four-wheel-drive traction capability.
•New eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic for rapid gearchanges.
•On sale now with OTR prices starting from £89,645.
The BMW M5 is the original model that started the high performance super saloon genre. Now an all-new sixth generation of the BMW M5 Saloon, will launch in February 2018 equipped with an enhanced V8 engine, a new M-specific, all-wheel drive system known as M xDrive and performance statistics that surpass all previous incarnations.




Power comes from the latest 4.4-litre V8 engine with BMW M TwinPower Turbo technology. It delivers a maximum torque of 750Nm, accelerating the new M5 from zero to 62mph in just 3.4 seconds, making it the fastest M5 yet. Power is transferred to the road via a new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

All of this performance is wrapped in a design that adheres to the form follows function mantra of all BMWs. The front design serves to splice the oncoming air in the most aerodynamic fashion while at the same time providing the breathing and cooling requirements for a 600hp engine and its braking system, and the downforce required of a high performance saloon.



The engine characteristics can be changed by pushing the Drive Performance from the basic setting 'Efficient' to 'Sport' and 'Sport Plus', both of which provide a faster turbo response.

BMW's M engineers have developed new turbochargers and a higher injection pressure of up to 350bar. This allows shorter injection times and better fuel atomisation, making it both faster and more efficient.

Improved lubrication and cooling systems include an oil pan with a small front silencer and an indirect charge air cooler, which is more powerful than its predecessor, despite its smaller size. The oil supply, which is operated by a variable pump, is designed for racing track applications and allows high G acceleration with no risk of oil starvation.

The exhaust manifolds have also been modified to ensure the best transfer of exhaust gas energy into the two turbochargers. Through the use of a resonator between the two rear silencers, the M engineers have also reduced the car's mass. The exhaust note is flap-controlled and is influenced by the different driving modes to enhance the driving experience further. An M Sound Control button allows the driver to reduce noise levels at the push of a button.

Power is transmitted to the road via the newly developed M xDrive all-wheel drive system. M xDrive brings the front wheels into play only when the rear wheels reach their limits of adhesion.

The main components of M xDrive are based on the intelligent all-wheel drive BMW xDrive system and Active M differential, controlled by a central M-specific vehicle dynamics control system. The drivetrain is stiffer and stronger than the previous model, while the transfer case constantly controls the torque distribution between the front and rear axles. The Active M differential splits distribution of the drive between the rear wheels. With M xDrive, the DSC intervenes only when necessary in extreme situations, so that the high engine power can be converted almost without power loss.

Enthusiastic drivers can configure M xDrive at any time according to their needs. In the default setting with DSC and 4WD switched on, the new M5 is similar to the typical M rear-wheel drive dynamic characteristics when accelerating out of a corner. At the same time, the car remains forgiving. The superior traction of the all-wheel drive system also provides impressive acceleration values from zero to 62mph in just 3.4 seconds and zero to 124mph in just 11.1 seconds.

If the driver switches to M Dynamic mode (MDM, 4WD Sport), the M5 becomes sharper and more agile. More torque is fed to the rear axle and the rear wheels give more wheel slippage. This allows controlled drifts and playful handling, but with controlled oversteer.

The pure rear-wheel-drive 2WD mode is designed for track use by experienced drivers and is dedicated entirely to pure driving pleasure without restrictive control systems.

The new eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic has extremely quick shift times and optimises change points to deliver the best performance. Thanks to a higher final drive ratio, the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission also delivers reduced fuel consumption.

It allows fully automatic shifting in 'D' mode and sequential switching in 'S' mode. This is possible both with the new short gear selection switch on the centre console as well as via M-shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The shift characteristics of the gearbox can be changed via the Drivelogic gear shift lever on the gear selector. Drivelogic Mode 1 stands for efficient driving with comfort shift times. Mode 2 supports fast driving with shortened shift times. Mode 3 is optimised for track driving with extremely short shift times. Those who prefer manual shifting in 'S' mode can also make multiple downshifts to the lowest possible gear, for example when braking into tight corners. An integrated oil cooler ensures the gearbox is protected even when used on the racetrack.

Superior chassis technology - A new era of driving dynamics.
BMW's M engineers made great driving dynamics and the best possible stability their goal in the chassis development of the new M5. Much of the testing took place on the in-house race track in Miramas in France, as well as on the toughest chassis test track in the world, the Nordschleife of the famous Nürburgring.

The precision and agility of previous M5 generations have been further developed for the new M5. Features include M xDrive, eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, M-specific variable damper control (three driving modes: Comfort, Sport, SportPlus) with electronically controlled shock absorbers and M Servotronic steering (three driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus).

The electromechanical M Servotronic steering system provides the right steering torque for every driving situation. The new M5 has incredible turn-in, coupled to excellent steering feedback, yet in city and short-distance traffic it adapts to offer low steering forces during manoeuvring and parking.

The double crossbar axle, seen on the BMW 5 Series Saloon, was significantly revised for use in the M5. BMW M engineers have re-designed all components leading to even greater driving stability.

The five-bar rear axle has also been adapted to M-specific requirements. New steering systems with stiffer rubber pads also meet the increased demands on driving dynamics and steering precision, such as harder stabilisers and lower, stiffer anti-roll bars. The rear axle has an elastomer bearing, specially developed for the M5. An additional steel cross strut and an aluminium cross brace increase the stiffness of the rear axle and improve its response.

Also not visible from the outside, but still critical to the car's handling, are other bodywork measures. For example, a domed aluminium front panel reinforces the front of the vehicle as well as the two front struts.

The tyres were developed especially for the M5 too, with 275/435 R20s at the front and 285/30 R20s at the rear. They are mounted on light-metal cast Double-spoke bicolour wheels. These wheels are also optionally available in Jet black.

Brake pads have been developed using a special M compound, characterised by significantly lower weight compared to conventional cast iron brakes. At the front and rear, perforated and internally ventilated brake discs are mounted within blue-painted six-piston callipers with a distinctive M logo designation.

M Carbon ceramic brakes are also available as an option, distinguished by matt Gold-coloured callipers with M logo designation. These are 23kg, increasing driving dynamics and suspension comfort, among other things. BMW M Carbon ceramic brakes have even better performance, less fade and improved thermal stability.

Sporty design where form follows function.
The design of the new BMW M5 is specific to M. For example, the completely redesigned front bumper with its enlarged air openings has the task of supplying the cooling systems and brakes with sufficient cooling even in race track applications. The track width is greater than the car's predecessor, the front wings are aluminium for weight reduction and carry characteristic M-sport cooling gills.

The bonnet is also made of aluminium, while the roof consists of a very light and stable carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) - the first time such an innovation has been used in a BMW M5.

The rear diffuser was also redesigned, while the M-specific rear apron and the M rear spoiler, coupled to purposeful sill panels, all enhance the sporty and powerful appearance of the M5. The exterior mirrors are also M-specific and designed dynamically. The hexagonal, central air intake is not only separate from the side air intakes, but also integrates the oil cooler – a beautiful combination of form and function.

The interior focuses entirely on the driver. Absolute control under all driving conditions is the maxim. At the same time, the new M5 offers space for up to four passengers, a large boot and high levels of comfort akin to those of the 5-Series saloon, combining the best of both worlds as a high-performance sports car and business vehicle.

Equipment without compromise - The driver is the focus.
The M5 enjoys tremendous levels of standard equipment, all geared towards driving dynamics. The focal point is the driver's seat, from which all switches and buttons can be operated in an ergonomically designed way.

All vehicle functions are located directly in the driver's field of vision. The large digital display from the BMW 5-Series was reconfigured specifically for M. It informs the driver about dynamic modes, the all-wheel drive M xDrive and the Drivelogic setting. The speed warning alarm is adjustable and shift lights inform the driver when it is the optimal time to change gear in manual shift mode. The data can also be reflected in the head-up display.

Almost all of the dynamics systems can be configured via the central touch-screen display, centre console button and M-Sport steering wheel. The central information display also has a gesture control.

The M5 is now started with a red start button, marking out its sporting intentions, while two red lacquered buttons M1 and M2 next to the shift paddles on the M multifunction steering wheel control the driving settings, including xDrive and DSC, as well as engine, transmission, damper and steering characteristics, plus the head-up display.

The M multifunctional seats are now offered as standard and provide better support in the shoulder area. With its racing cup shape and the more pronounced side edges of seat and backrest, the M multifunctional seat offers even greater lateral support for keen drivers, with an illuminated M5 logo, finished in Fine grain Merino leather. The seats feature electric adjustment, seat heating, and a memory function. The seat depth can be electrically adjusted, along with the seat backrest width to offer the best lateral support to all shapes and sizes of driver.

The new M5 is available in a variety of exterior colours, some of which are exclusively reserved for the model. A brand new shade is Marina Bay blue metallic, an intense blue colour. Also available on request are matt colours such as Frozen Dark Silver or Frozen Arctic Grey.

The M Driver's Package is offered as an option and increases the top speed of the BMW M5 Saloon from 155mph to 190mph. In addition to this, owners are invited to participate in BMW M Intensive Training, a course offered through the BMW Driving Experience Centre. This can be facilitated in the ÚK or in Germany at several different race circuits.

In the best tradition.
For more than 30 years, the M5 has been the epitome of the ultimate sports saloon. Launched in 1984, it was always a car that hid its amazing sporting capabilities behind a discreet yet powerful exterior. The latest model embodies that spirit and takes it yet further.

1984: BMW M5 E28S.
The first generation M5 (Type E28S) was introduced in the autumn of 1984. It was powered by a 24-valve six-cylinder 3.5-litre engine with 286PS, from the mid-engined M1 sports car. The engine was equipped with a single-butterfly valve system and accelerated the first M5 from a standstill to 62mph in just 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 152mph. It was the fastest four-door production saloon of its time.

1988: BMW M5 E34S / E34 / 5S.
With the second generation M5, launched in 1988, BMW Motorsport GmbH once again created a hero. Its 3.6-litre engine developed 315PS and for the first time reached 155mph. In the second generation E34, the displacement increased to 3.8-litres and the output to 340PS. From 1992, a Touring version appeared, of which only 900 were made.

1998: BMW M5 E39S.
The third generation M5, the E39S, was as discreet as its predecessors. Únderneath the bonnet, though, it packed a 5.0-litre 32-valve V8 engine, with an incredible 400PS sent through the rear wheels and 500Nm of torque. Top speed was limited to 155mph, with zero to 62mph in just 5.3 seconds.

2005: BMW M5 E60 / E61.
With the fourth generation M5, the E60, BMW developed a new 5.0-litre V10 engine with 507PS, delivered at an astonishing 7,750rpm. It did the zero to 62mph sprint in just 4.7 seconds and again was limited to 155mph. In some markets, the M5 driver was able to cancel the maximum speed limit with the new M Drivers Package - so the M5 went as fast as 189mph. Also new was the automated Sequential M Transmission (SMG) with seven gears and Launch Control for maximum acceleration.

2010: BMW M5 F10M.
The fifth generation BMW M5 came under the F10M type designation in 2011 and had the first generation of the current 4.4-litre V8-Biturbo. With 560PS, the performance had almost doubled that of the first M5. The 680Nm maximum torque also represented almost double (E28S: 340Nm). Thanks to M TwinPower Turbo technology, the M5 sprinted to 62mph in 4.3 seconds, via a new 7-speed M twin-clutch transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Its unrestricted top speed was 189mph.
In 2013 came the M5 with Competition Package, a variant with 575PS. In 2014, the special 30th anniversary model with 600PS came along, of which only 300 were built.

2017: BMW M5 F90.
With the new BMW M5 (Type F90), BMW M is continuing a success story that began over 30 years ago and is based on a seemingly simple recipe: luxury through the highest level of performance and comfort.

Source - BMW