BMW has today uncovered its seventh-generation M5 for 2025, ushering in the seventh chapter of one of the world’s most storied performance sedan nameplates, but this time with a major twist.
It’s been well known for some time the M5 would return as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), with a powertrain broadly similar to that seen in the XM hyper-SUV. This has turned out to be the case, albeit with some key differences.
A 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 sits up front, with a ‘hot-vee’ layout for the turbos. It generates 430kW (727hp) and 750Nm, with a redline of 7200rpm. This closely mirrors the outputs for the ICE version of the BMW XM Label Red. Like that car, it is all-wheel drive and can drive on electric power alone thanks to the electric component of its powertrain, bringing total system output to 535kW and 1000Nm.
Am 18.6kWh battery pack allows the car to travel 67-69km on electric power alone, but when called into action with the ICE powertrain, it can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.5 seconds. The top speed for locally-delivered models will be limited to 305km/h. Top speed is a respectable 140km/h in EV mode.
While driving in electric-only mode, occupants will be treated to BMW IconSounds Electric – a synthetic tone to break the silence of electric cruising. Alternatively, four 100mm cannons at the rear will let the twin-turbo V8 bark its Bavarian lungs out when let off its leash.
Chassis-wise, a lot of work has been done to differentiate the 2025 M5 from the standard 5 Series, featuring double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension with unique geometry and electronically controlled dampers. M5 logos feature not only on the Hoffmeister-kinked C-pillar, but are stamped into the structural members of the B-pillar as well.
21-inch alloy wheels, sill extensions and a unique grille opening as well as rear diffuser set the M5 apart stylistically, with an available carbon package adding some carbon fibre parts including a ducktail rear spoiler.
Pricing for the 2.3-tonne hyper sedan in Australia will be announced in July of this year, before expected November customer deliveries. Driving Enthusiast will keep you posted.
UPDATE: Prices have been confirmed to start from $259,900 (excluding on-roads).
