The BMW M5 has come a good distance since its humble beginnings within the Eighties. From naturally aspirated straight-six engines to V10 screamers, and now an electrified twin-turbocharged V8, the M5 continues to redefine itself. With the most recent technology (G90), BMW introduces electrification, and after practically 1,000 miles behind the wheel, preliminary impressions are largely constructive—with some notable concerns. We not too long ago took supply of our 2025 BMW M5 G90 long-term press automobile and it’s now time to share preliminary impressions and insights about what it’s prefer to reside with BMW’s first electrified M5. On this first assessment, we’ll primarily cowl the brand new M5’s day by day driving traits. In a while, we’ll discover its efficiency on the observe and on winding backroads.
Every day Drivability: Higher Than The F90 M5
One of many greatest questions surrounding the G90 M5 is whether or not its added weight—practically 1,000 lbs heavier than the outgoing F90—is noticeable throughout day by day driving. Surprisingly, the additional heft largely disappears in day by day situations. Actually, consolation is notably improved. The G90’s Consolation mode is balanced, avoiding extreme softness or harshness. In Sport, the journey resembles the earlier technology’s Consolation setting, whereas Sport Plus tightens issues up simply sufficient to reinforce agility with out turning into uncomfortable. The distinction between commonplace mode and Sport Plus is now way more dramatic than within the F90, highlighting the flexibility launched with electrification and adaptive suspension.
Regardless of the numerous weight achieve—approaching practically 5,400 kilos as a result of hybrid {hardware}—it by no means feels cumbersome throughout day by day commutes or freeway cruising. As a substitute, the G90 genuinely looks like a extra refined and comfy on a regular basis automobile in comparison with its predecessor, the F90.
Good
- Twin-Character Drivetrain
- Improved Experience Consolation In comparison with F90 M5
- Rear-Axle Steering
Dangerous
- Weight Affect on Dynamics
- Inside Piano Black Trim
- The hybrid mode transition is just not at all times easy
Round city, I like to make use of principally the Hybrid mode with the automobile deciding one of the best drivetrain choice for me. However I shortly change into the Electrical mode in stop-and-go site visitors so I can take full benefit of the most regenerative braking choice. The Michelin PS5S tires (20-inch entrance, 21-inch rear) fitted on this automobile are noticeably quieter and smoother than the Hankook tires from my earlier G90 M5 check, bettering day by day livability. Apparently, the G90 M5 feels extra like a extremely sporty, downsized 7 Sequence slightly than the normal uncooked M5. Given BMW by no means supplied a correct M7, this M5 may be as shut as we get, delivering luxurious and refinement blended with spectacular efficiency in a manageable bundle.
Surprisingly, BMW omitted Degree 2+ Freeway Assistant, possible emphasizing that the M5 stays a driver-focused machine. Palms-free driving is restricted to 40 mph and just for brief durations—additional reinforcing its performance-oriented intentions.
Electrification: Triple Personalities
Electrification has granted the G90 M5 two completely distinct personalities. On brief, city-based journeys in EV mode, it quietly glides alongside, effortlessly whispering by way of site visitors. It really feels at instances just like the i5 M60 sedan. I used to be notably stunned at how swift and responsive it feels even with out the V8 engaged. But, change to Sport Plus mode, and the automobile transforms fully. Throttle response sharpens, chassis dynamics change into taut, and abruptly, you’re torturing the tires with that energy, and a little bit of a heavy nostril.
Nonetheless, the transition between electrical and gasoline energy isn’t at all times silky easy, notably in colder climate. There’s a slight vibration and uptick in rumble because the V8 wakes up, a delicate however noticeable hand-off between battery and combustion engine. Even in pure EV mode, flooring the accelerator prompts the V8 to kick in—albeit with a slight however tangible delay. But total, the plug-in hybrid drivetrain is extra refined than within the XM.
BMW’s drivetrain flexibility shines by way of the programmable M1 and M2 buttons. I’ve configured M1 for average, ICE-focused driving that maintains a easy, quiet expertise, whereas M2 units the automobile into full efficiency mode with most energy, stiffer suspension, and heightened responsiveness. Basically, you get three distinct vehicles in a single: a relaxed electrical cruiser, a dynamic but comfy sedan, and a full-fledged efficiency monster.
Brakes and Steering
BMW of North America optioned our check automobile with the $8,500 M Carbon Ceramic Brakes. Though dear—and regardless of having no intention to trace the automobile if it was mine—I genuinely recognize their profit: dramatically lowered brake mud. As somebody meticulous about maintaining wheels clear, much less brake mud tremendously satisfies my OCD. Sure, they require barely longer warm-up instances in comparison with metal brakes, however it’s a trade-off price making for on a regular basis cleanliness. If cash no object. I’d say that should you reside wherever close to some canyons, then that might be one other good cause to get the ceramic brakes.
The rear-wheel steering is one other standout function, particularly when driving in a busy metropolis like Chicago. It considerably enhances city maneuverability, making parallel parking and tight turns remarkably simpler. It additionally notably reduces the turning radius, making the G90 M5 surprisingly manageable given its dimension.
Styling and Presence
The design initially didn’t win me over. The squared-off, aggressive look felt polarizing at first, even prompting a candid dialog with designer Jose Casas about this styling path. But, after residing with the brand new M5, the quirky and daring look has grown considerably on me and notably attracts consideration, sparking conversations, particularly amongst non-BMW fanatics.
Inside and Know-how
Inside, the brand new 2025 BMW M5 gives a snug, tech-forward surroundings with a lot of whistles and bells, and lights. Nonetheless, inside high quality may very well be higher. BMW persists in utilizing piano black plastics on the sprint, door sills, and bumpers, which shortly change into fingerprint magnets and are frustratingly prone to scratches.
The newest iDrive 8.5 infotainment system is lastly as much as par—responsive, intuitive, and fast to navigate regardless of its complexity. Though it doesn’t but embody BMW’s forthcoming giant language model-based iDrive X, when you study the voice command construction, making fast changes turns into second nature.
Practicality and Household Use
Seating consolation stays stable, although rear passengers have barely much less room in comparison with the F90—possible as a result of battery’s positioning beneath the ground. Nonetheless, becoming two little one seats proved straightforward, and the M5 stays sensible for household use, although barely extra cosy. Nonetheless, becoming two little one seats posed no challenges, affirming its viability as a family-friendly efficiency sedan.
Remaining Preliminary Ideas
Practically 1,000 miles in, my first impressions are total constructive. Whereas it lacks the uncooked fringe of earlier M5 generations, the brand new G90 M5 has matured into an distinctive day by day driver that seamlessly blends luxurious, consolation, and electrified efficiency. If day by day consolation and flexibility are priorities, it’s a superb selection. For these searching for a pure track-oriented weapon, nevertheless, take into account an F90 M5 Competitors or M5 CS as a substitute. Talking of the latter, it’s nonetheless arguably one of the best M5 ever made.
This preliminary expertise units the stage for a deeper dive as I proceed exploring how the G90 M5 holds up in day by day life. Keep tuned for a extra detailed video assessment coming quickly.
