The BMW M5 is more than just a fast saloon. It defines an era where performance, technology and daily usability combine. The current version raises the bar further, mixing cutting-edge hybrid engineering with traditional thrills. For buyers in the UK with an eye on top speed and tax efficiency, the new BMW M5 stands out in a crowded field.
Are BMW M5 Cars Good? UK Drivers Weigh In
Drive enthusiasts and experts alike still rave about the M5’s power and balance. UK long-term reviews reveal a machine that is both brutally quick and refined. Owners highlight the smooth delivery of power thanks to the hybrid system, which adds instant torque without sacrificing the V8’s classic thunder.
- The new model has 717bhp and launches from 0 to 62mph in under 3.5 seconds.
- Power feels muscular out of every corner, ensuring thrilling performance on both motorways and B-roads.
- Adaptive suspension gives comfort on daily commutes yet remains ready for spirited drives on weekends.
- Salon styling keeps the M5 low-key. It looks smart at work or on the school run, and only true petrolheads spot the aggressive details.
Some reviewers, however, note that the M5’s big weight (now around 2,475kg) can be felt on twisty country roads, especially on uneven or subsided tarmac. For city driving, the hybrid set-up allows silent EV-only operation—perfect for early starts or low-emission zones.
BMW M5 Long-Term Review: Living With a Legend
Living with the latest BMW M5 in the UK means experiencing world-class comfort and advanced features. Owners and journalists frequently comment on the plush, tech-laden interior. Standard kit goes well above the segment norm:
- Heated and ventilated M Sport seats finished in Merino leather for support and luxury.
- Large curved digital displays with bespoke M graphics, along with an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
- Heads-up display, ambient lighting and a digital key offer premium convenience.
Long-duration journeys are effortless. The M5 offers over 40 miles of electric-only driving, according to real-world testing, helping those who commute across cities keep fuel costs and tailpipe emissions down. Motorway trips reveal a car just as capable as a full-sized executive saloon, with a compliant ride and low noise.
Practicality remains strong, especially with the new Touring estate variant returning to the range. You now get even more boot space without losing an ounce of excitement.
How Much is the BMW M5 in the UK?
Pricing for the BMW M5 in the UK reflects its status as a flagship performance car. The official recommended retail price (RRP) starts at £111,605, with the possibility of the cost reaching above £130,000 if you tick all the option boxes.
Here is how the typical costs break down:
| Model | Starting Price | Popular Options |
|---|---|---|
| M5 Saloon | £111,605 | Carbon ceramic brakes (£10,000), driver assistance packages |
| M5 Touring | Similar to Saloon | More room and versatility |
Competition from rivals like the Audi RS6 and Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid sees the M5 remain competitive on price, especially given its tax-friendly plug-in hybrid status. For company car drivers, the low CO2 rating means significant Benefit-in-Kind tax savings compared to older petrol-only M5 versions.
If you opt for nearly-new or used examples, expect prices to begin around £93,990 for approved used cars from reputable UK dealers.
BMW M5 Features UK Shoppers Love
The BMW M5 is loaded with features that bridge the demands of comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology:
- Plug-in hybrid drivetrain delivers over 700hp, with 40 miles of real EV driving range on a full charge.
- All-wheel drive (M xDrive) gives sure-footed grip, aided by clever systems that can channel power to the rear for purists.
- Adaptive M suspension fine-tunes the ride between comfort and track modes.
- M Carbon ceramic brakes offer fade-free stopping power, critical given the M5’s weight and performance.
- Bespoke M graphics on the infotainment, special drive mode controls, and a full suite of driver assist systems.
Practical details also get attention. The 16.5 cubic foot boot (on the saloon), family-friendly seating, and generous rear legroom ensure it works both as a family car and an executive express.
The BMW M5 in Daily Life: UK Perspective
In everyday use, the M5 surprises many UK owners with its ease of driving. Adaptive dampers allow it to glide over bumps in urban settings. Staying in electric-only mode for city errands feels futuristic and frugal. Yet, with the push of the M button, the car transforms, delivering serious thrills on demand.
Its build quality, reliability, and level of equipment match anything from Mercedes or Porsche. Still, some drivers do wish for more steering feedback, a hallmark of older M5 models. However, both private and company car buyers are enthusiastic about its company car tax advantages, zero-emission capabilities, and unmatched versatility.
Overall, the BMW M5 continues to be a topic of trending searches across the UK. From pricing to everyday practicality and top-notch features, the BMW M5 secures its place as the ultimate high-performance plug-in hybrid saloon for those who want both speed and sensibility.