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2018 BMW M5
- Thread starter dlk001
- Start date
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Shmee is getting the new M5 thanks to BMW
[video=youtube_share;XTrUU28vUxE]https://youtu.be/XTrUU28vUxE[/video]
[video=youtube_share;XTrUU28vUxE]https://youtu.be/XTrUU28vUxE[/video]
Gtx Gaming
Gtx Gaming
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gSTGRZO-elz5Jqz21KSloqAr1Nu137d8/view?usp=sharing
Buddy sent me this, which probably means SMG received stock
Buddy sent me this, which probably means SMG received stock
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Sweet hallelujah
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Pure curiosity, what are the M1 and M2 red levers?
And where are the M3, M4 and M6 ones?
Really wanna know or lame joke? I can't gauge lol
f2wohf
Honorary Master
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Really wanna know, and lame joke too!
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Lol
Ok like the recent M models beside the M2 model the M1 & M2 (buttons) are user configurable settings. In the infotainment system the driver chooses what settings they want mapped to the M1 & M2 buttons. Things like steering; suspension; traction control; throttle response etc.
When needs arise the driver simply presses the one button & all their preferences are enabled
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Haha! That would have been cool though.
FiestaST
Honorary Master
HERE’S HOW MUCH THE NEW BMW M5 WILL COST IN SA…
At the end of March 2018, BMW’s new F90-generation M5 will be launched in South Africa to take the fight to the latest Mercedes-AMG E63 S. So, just how much will this all-wheel-drive super-sedan set you back?
Well, while the local arm of the Munich-based automaker has yet to add the new M5 to its official price list, the high-performance saloon does appear on BMW SA’s configurator, where it is priced from R1 746 094.
Of course, should you be willing to spend yet more cash, there’s an extensive options list that includes items such as 20-inch alloys (up from the standard 19-inch items), various leather packages for the cabin, an uprated sound system, seat massage (and heating/ventilation) functions, active cruise control, night vision, M carbon-ceramic brakes and even a trailer tow hitch. And, naturally, there’s also the (R36 800) M Driver’s Package that raises the electronically limited top speed from 250 km/h to 305 km/h.
As a reminder, the new M5 draws 441 kW (between 5 600 and 6 700 r/min) and 750 N.m (from as low as 1 800 r/min all the way through to 5 600 r/min) from its 4,4‑litre turbocharged V8 heart. Drive is sent to all four corners via a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission thanks to a new, switchable M-specific xDrive system (complete with a so-called drift mode).
And that allows the sedan to claim the title of the fastest accelerating road-legal, production BMW ever. Yes, the new M5 rockets from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 3,4 seconds and from standstill to 200 km/h in a claimed 11,1 seconds.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/heres-much-new-bmw-m5-will-cost-sa/
At the end of March 2018, BMW’s new F90-generation M5 will be launched in South Africa to take the fight to the latest Mercedes-AMG E63 S. So, just how much will this all-wheel-drive super-sedan set you back?
Well, while the local arm of the Munich-based automaker has yet to add the new M5 to its official price list, the high-performance saloon does appear on BMW SA’s configurator, where it is priced from R1 746 094.
Of course, should you be willing to spend yet more cash, there’s an extensive options list that includes items such as 20-inch alloys (up from the standard 19-inch items), various leather packages for the cabin, an uprated sound system, seat massage (and heating/ventilation) functions, active cruise control, night vision, M carbon-ceramic brakes and even a trailer tow hitch. And, naturally, there’s also the (R36 800) M Driver’s Package that raises the electronically limited top speed from 250 km/h to 305 km/h.
As a reminder, the new M5 draws 441 kW (between 5 600 and 6 700 r/min) and 750 N.m (from as low as 1 800 r/min all the way through to 5 600 r/min) from its 4,4‑litre turbocharged V8 heart. Drive is sent to all four corners via a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission thanks to a new, switchable M-specific xDrive system (complete with a so-called drift mode).
And that allows the sedan to claim the title of the fastest accelerating road-legal, production BMW ever. Yes, the new M5 rockets from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 3,4 seconds and from standstill to 200 km/h in a claimed 11,1 seconds.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/heres-much-new-bmw-m5-will-cost-sa/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 2018 UK review
Should I buy one?
This is a four-wheel-drive super saloon of amazing real-world pace, range and finesse, but if it isn’t quite perfect, it may only be because it doesn’t suit your personal tastes.
For me, there’s too much variety and choice with which to engage when you’re driving the M5. While a road tester’s perspective always exacerbates the problem (because we’re in and out of new cars, and seldom become familiar with them like an owner would), I simply don’t like the notion that, by operating via mutually discrete ‘comfort’ and ‘sport’ modes for its many controls and systems, you’re always switching and fiddling with the M5 and never feel like you’ve found that ideal, everyday, middle-ground compromise. Even after a couple of hundred miles, I was still fiddling.
But that’s a compliant I’ve had with BMW M cars for a long time, and not exclusively either; it’d be totally unfair to criticise the M5 for it in more than a passing mention, when it's such a remarkable achievement. This is a car that’s just become even more capable, even more usable, even faster and even more exciting than it may ever have been – a combination driver's cars so very rarely manage. And if it’s isn’t the very best car of its kind right now, the beating of it should be nothing if not memorable.
BMW M5
Engine V8, 4395cc, twin turbocharged petrol; Power 591bhp at 5600-6700rpm; Torque 553lb ft at 1800-5600rpm; Gearbox 8-spd automatic; Kerb weight 1855kg (DIN); 0-62mph 3.4sec; Top speed 155mph (limited); Economy 26.9mpg; CO2/tax band 241g/km; Rivals Mercedes-AMG E63, Audi RS6 Performance
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/m5/first-drives/bmw-m5-2018-uk-review
Should I buy one?
This is a four-wheel-drive super saloon of amazing real-world pace, range and finesse, but if it isn’t quite perfect, it may only be because it doesn’t suit your personal tastes.
For me, there’s too much variety and choice with which to engage when you’re driving the M5. While a road tester’s perspective always exacerbates the problem (because we’re in and out of new cars, and seldom become familiar with them like an owner would), I simply don’t like the notion that, by operating via mutually discrete ‘comfort’ and ‘sport’ modes for its many controls and systems, you’re always switching and fiddling with the M5 and never feel like you’ve found that ideal, everyday, middle-ground compromise. Even after a couple of hundred miles, I was still fiddling.
But that’s a compliant I’ve had with BMW M cars for a long time, and not exclusively either; it’d be totally unfair to criticise the M5 for it in more than a passing mention, when it's such a remarkable achievement. This is a car that’s just become even more capable, even more usable, even faster and even more exciting than it may ever have been – a combination driver's cars so very rarely manage. And if it’s isn’t the very best car of its kind right now, the beating of it should be nothing if not memorable.
BMW M5
Engine V8, 4395cc, twin turbocharged petrol; Power 591bhp at 5600-6700rpm; Torque 553lb ft at 1800-5600rpm; Gearbox 8-spd automatic; Kerb weight 1855kg (DIN); 0-62mph 3.4sec; Top speed 155mph (limited); Economy 26.9mpg; CO2/tax band 241g/km; Rivals Mercedes-AMG E63, Audi RS6 Performance
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/m5/first-drives/bmw-m5-2018-uk-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
New BMW M5 vs Mercedes-AMG E63 S - Carwow
[video=youtube_share;EfZtr6Sc6q0]https://youtu.be/EfZtr6Sc6q0[/video]
[video=youtube_share;EfZtr6Sc6q0]https://youtu.be/EfZtr6Sc6q0[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 vs Dodge Hellcat vs Jeep Trackhawak - The Fast Lane Car
[video=youtube;nA2SEfNOSj4]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA2SEfNOSj4[/video]
[video=youtube;nA2SEfNOSj4]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA2SEfNOSj4[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 (2018) Specs & Pricing
The F90 BMW M5 has officially landed in South Africa and we're driving it this week. In the meantime, here are the specifications and pricing for this German four-door 'bahnstormer.
The sixth-generation BMW M5 goes on sale this week and while our tame racing driver Ashley Oldfield gets to grips with the Bavarian newcomer, here are some key details you need to know about this new vehicle. It's a new chapter for the BMW M5 as it's being offered with a newly-developed M xDrive (all-wheel drive). Interestingly, BMW says you can deactivate the front axle and send all the power to the rear wheels, making for spectacular burnouts or drifts as you can see in the photos. The primary advantage of all-wheel drive, however, is traction and with power going to all four wheels, ballistic acceleration is possible.
In terms of acceleration, the new BMW M5 is claimed to hit 100 kph from standstill in just 3.4 seconds, making it fearsomely fast. What's even more impressive is the fact that in 11 seconds, it'll be at 200 kph. Top speed is limited to 250 kph, but if you select an option, the limiter can be moved to 305 kph. The engine doing all the work is a revised example of the 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo motor, however, in the latest application, it produces 441 kW and 750 Nm. The transmission is new and is an 8-speed M Steptronic unit with Drivelogic. Despite its ballistic performance, BMW says its new M5 will consume an average of 10.5 L/100 km.
Thanks to tech such as a lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof and a weight-minimised exhaust system, the new BMW is lighter than the outgoing model. You'll be able to spot the new BMW M5 thanks to its big bumpers which are functional as they funnel cold air into the engine, transmission and brakes, and take hot air out. Blue painted 6-piston brakes are on duty for big stopping power, but for real high-performance anchors, then best you look to the M carbon ceramic brakes which are lighter than the standard units and will provide the serious braking force.
In terms of cabin features, the BMW M5 is generously specced and comes standard with M seats for the front two people. Leather upholstery is standard too. Being a BMW, you can go to town on the options and customise your M5 to your heart's delight. There are some matte paint finishes, for example.
We look forward to putting the newcomer through its paces soon! Check back for an in-depth driving impression in the coming days.
BMW M5 Price in South Africa
BMW M5 R1 762 806 (includes 15% VAT and CO2 tax).
The exclusively equipped First Edition costs R2,008,700 (includes 15% VAT and CO2 tax). There are five in South Africa and all have been sold.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-2018-specs--pricing/44807/
The F90 BMW M5 has officially landed in South Africa and we're driving it this week. In the meantime, here are the specifications and pricing for this German four-door 'bahnstormer.
The sixth-generation BMW M5 goes on sale this week and while our tame racing driver Ashley Oldfield gets to grips with the Bavarian newcomer, here are some key details you need to know about this new vehicle. It's a new chapter for the BMW M5 as it's being offered with a newly-developed M xDrive (all-wheel drive). Interestingly, BMW says you can deactivate the front axle and send all the power to the rear wheels, making for spectacular burnouts or drifts as you can see in the photos. The primary advantage of all-wheel drive, however, is traction and with power going to all four wheels, ballistic acceleration is possible.
In terms of acceleration, the new BMW M5 is claimed to hit 100 kph from standstill in just 3.4 seconds, making it fearsomely fast. What's even more impressive is the fact that in 11 seconds, it'll be at 200 kph. Top speed is limited to 250 kph, but if you select an option, the limiter can be moved to 305 kph. The engine doing all the work is a revised example of the 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo motor, however, in the latest application, it produces 441 kW and 750 Nm. The transmission is new and is an 8-speed M Steptronic unit with Drivelogic. Despite its ballistic performance, BMW says its new M5 will consume an average of 10.5 L/100 km.
Thanks to tech such as a lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof and a weight-minimised exhaust system, the new BMW is lighter than the outgoing model. You'll be able to spot the new BMW M5 thanks to its big bumpers which are functional as they funnel cold air into the engine, transmission and brakes, and take hot air out. Blue painted 6-piston brakes are on duty for big stopping power, but for real high-performance anchors, then best you look to the M carbon ceramic brakes which are lighter than the standard units and will provide the serious braking force.
In terms of cabin features, the BMW M5 is generously specced and comes standard with M seats for the front two people. Leather upholstery is standard too. Being a BMW, you can go to town on the options and customise your M5 to your heart's delight. There are some matte paint finishes, for example.
We look forward to putting the newcomer through its paces soon! Check back for an in-depth driving impression in the coming days.
BMW M5 Price in South Africa
BMW M5 R1 762 806 (includes 15% VAT and CO2 tax).
The exclusively equipped First Edition costs R2,008,700 (includes 15% VAT and CO2 tax). There are five in South Africa and all have been sold.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-2018-specs--pricing/44807/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW's 441kW M5 super saloon unleashed in SA
Kyalami, Midrand - It’s the first M5 with all-wheel drive, the first with a carbon-fibre roof and as of today, with the official launch at the Kyalami circuit, it’s here in South Africa, priced at R1 762 807.
The sixth generation of BMW’s original ‘super saloon’ boasts an uprated 4.4-litre turbo V8 with new turbos, higher fuel-injection pressure and a more authoritative exhaust system, rated for 441kW between 5600 and 6700 revs, and 750Nm from 1800-5600rpm, driving all four wheels through a new eight-speed automatic transmission and an M-specific version of BMW’s xDrive that uses a central active M differential to split the drive between front and rear axles.
BMW says the rear-biased system only brings the front wheels into play when the rear wheels reach their limit of traction; you can, however, switch to Dynamic mode, which will let you shake the M5’s booty to a limited extent before stepping in to spoil the fun, or to two-wheel drive without dynamic stability control (recommended for track days only) at which point how out of shape you get is up to you.
What all-wheel does give you, however, is superior traction off the line - enough, says BMW, to get you to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds and and to 200 in 11.1s. Top speed, of course is limited to 250km/h - unless you opt for the extra-cost M Driver’s Package, which raises the bar to just over 300.
Jesse Adams drove the M5 at the world launch in Estoril Portugal late last year and enjoyed the new set-up:
“I drove the M5 in both modes on public roads and around the Estoril race track and my findings were as expected. 4WD Mode is faster, 2WD Mode is more fun. There is an earlier touch of understeer when pushed to the ragged limit in 4WD but the extra traction on corner exits more than makes up for it in lap times.
"But it must be said that anyone willing to explore this five metre-long sedan’s tail-happiness MUST have the driving skills to back it up. A tad too much pedal input at the wrong time, and it snaps like a coiled cobra toward the nearest hedgerow.”
At first glance the cockpit looks much like that of the standard 5 Series sedan - but the seats are specially-developed super supportive multi-adjustable buckets and the big digital display has been reconfigured to display drive modes, xDrive and Drivelogic settings, an adjustable speed warning and a shift light for when you’re using the transmission as a sequential ‘box.
There’s also a bright red start button and two red mode-control toggles marked M1 and M2, next to the shift paddles.
Even with all the extra weight of the all-wheel drive mechanism, the new M5 is about 60kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks to that composite roof, and an aluminium bonnet and front wings.
The one thing that isn’t lighter, however, is the price tag: local pricing for the new M5 starts at R1 762 807.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/bmws-441kw-m5-super-saloon-unleashed-in-sa-14128079
Kyalami, Midrand - It’s the first M5 with all-wheel drive, the first with a carbon-fibre roof and as of today, with the official launch at the Kyalami circuit, it’s here in South Africa, priced at R1 762 807.
The sixth generation of BMW’s original ‘super saloon’ boasts an uprated 4.4-litre turbo V8 with new turbos, higher fuel-injection pressure and a more authoritative exhaust system, rated for 441kW between 5600 and 6700 revs, and 750Nm from 1800-5600rpm, driving all four wheels through a new eight-speed automatic transmission and an M-specific version of BMW’s xDrive that uses a central active M differential to split the drive between front and rear axles.
BMW says the rear-biased system only brings the front wheels into play when the rear wheels reach their limit of traction; you can, however, switch to Dynamic mode, which will let you shake the M5’s booty to a limited extent before stepping in to spoil the fun, or to two-wheel drive without dynamic stability control (recommended for track days only) at which point how out of shape you get is up to you.
What all-wheel does give you, however, is superior traction off the line - enough, says BMW, to get you to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds and and to 200 in 11.1s. Top speed, of course is limited to 250km/h - unless you opt for the extra-cost M Driver’s Package, which raises the bar to just over 300.
Jesse Adams drove the M5 at the world launch in Estoril Portugal late last year and enjoyed the new set-up:
“I drove the M5 in both modes on public roads and around the Estoril race track and my findings were as expected. 4WD Mode is faster, 2WD Mode is more fun. There is an earlier touch of understeer when pushed to the ragged limit in 4WD but the extra traction on corner exits more than makes up for it in lap times.
"But it must be said that anyone willing to explore this five metre-long sedan’s tail-happiness MUST have the driving skills to back it up. A tad too much pedal input at the wrong time, and it snaps like a coiled cobra toward the nearest hedgerow.”
At first glance the cockpit looks much like that of the standard 5 Series sedan - but the seats are specially-developed super supportive multi-adjustable buckets and the big digital display has been reconfigured to display drive modes, xDrive and Drivelogic settings, an adjustable speed warning and a shift light for when you’re using the transmission as a sequential ‘box.
There’s also a bright red start button and two red mode-control toggles marked M1 and M2, next to the shift paddles.
Even with all the extra weight of the all-wheel drive mechanism, the new M5 is about 60kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks to that composite roof, and an aluminium bonnet and front wings.
The one thing that isn’t lighter, however, is the price tag: local pricing for the new M5 starts at R1 762 807.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/bmws-441kw-m5-super-saloon-unleashed-in-sa-14128079
FiestaST
Honorary Master
HERE’S HOW MUCH THE BMW M5 FIRST EDITION COSTS IN SA…
The new BMW M5 has officially launched in South Africa, bringing 441 kW and 750 N.m (courtesy of its 4,4‑litre turbocharged V8 heart) to the all-wheel-drive super-sedan party. And BMW South Africa has now confirmed that five (yes, just five) examples of the special M5 First Edition variant have been set aside for the local market.
While the “standard” (for lack of a better term) F90-generation M5 is priced from R1 762 806 (a little more than we initially reported, now that the increase in VAT has been factored in), the limited-run First Edition starts at R2 024 006, commanding a R261 200 premium over its sibling.
However, BMW South Africa told us that just five examples from the M5 First Edition’s 400-strong worldwide run have been earmarked for the local market … and each one has already been sold.
Finished in Frozen Dark Red Metallic paintwork, the M5 First Edition is fitted as standard with the BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line package, which lends a high-gloss black finish to the grille, M gills and tailpipes. In addition, this model rides on 20-inch seven-double-spoke light-alloy wheels (the standard M5 comes with 19-inch items) in black.
Inside, this limited-edition model features additional piano black trim and a plaque affixed to the centre console indicating the car’s production number (“M5 First Edition 1/400”). Leather upholstery in Smoke White with red contrast stitching is also available.
BMW M5 First Edition
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/heres-how-much-the-bmw-m5-first-edition-costs-in-sa/
The new BMW M5 has officially launched in South Africa, bringing 441 kW and 750 N.m (courtesy of its 4,4‑litre turbocharged V8 heart) to the all-wheel-drive super-sedan party. And BMW South Africa has now confirmed that five (yes, just five) examples of the special M5 First Edition variant have been set aside for the local market.
While the “standard” (for lack of a better term) F90-generation M5 is priced from R1 762 806 (a little more than we initially reported, now that the increase in VAT has been factored in), the limited-run First Edition starts at R2 024 006, commanding a R261 200 premium over its sibling.
However, BMW South Africa told us that just five examples from the M5 First Edition’s 400-strong worldwide run have been earmarked for the local market … and each one has already been sold.
Finished in Frozen Dark Red Metallic paintwork, the M5 First Edition is fitted as standard with the BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line package, which lends a high-gloss black finish to the grille, M gills and tailpipes. In addition, this model rides on 20-inch seven-double-spoke light-alloy wheels (the standard M5 comes with 19-inch items) in black.
Inside, this limited-edition model features additional piano black trim and a plaque affixed to the centre console indicating the car’s production number (“M5 First Edition 1/400”). Leather upholstery in Smoke White with red contrast stitching is also available.
BMW M5 First Edition
http://www.carmag.co.za/news/heres-how-much-the-bmw-m5-first-edition-costs-in-sa/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 (2018) Launch Review
BMW South Africa marked the local market introduction of its latest M car – the F90-generation M5 – with a track session on the Kyalami circuit. We were there to sample the super sedan and get a taste of what it’s like.
What’s new?
It’s an all-new BMW M5, so obviously it’s new from the ground up and based on the latest 5 Series platform. BMW made sure that this newest model was more powerful, even lighter and featured more adjustable driving programmes than ever before. There’s still a 4.4-litre V8 under the bonnet with twin turbos nestled in between the V (the gap between the engine's pair of cylinder banks) delivering the added shove. The roof is made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic in order to lighten the considerable heft of the M5... to an extent.
Drive is sent to all wheels via an automatic (not dual-clutch) 8-speed transmission. All-wheel-drive isn’t entirely new for the M5 as the previous model was available with xDrive (4wd) in some markets. The all-wheel-drive system is adjustable in 3 modes, which rank from all-wheel drive, mostly all-wheel-drive but with a little slidey action and rear-wheel drive only – which is only available with the traction control off.
The new M5 still looks understated and restrained. The perfect sleeper.
The cabin differs from all other M cars as there are distinct additions to the transmission lever – it’s a square lever has the gearbox ferocity settings atop. Then there’s the rather out-of-place red M1 and M2 switches. I say out of place because they feel like gubbins an M4 DTM or track-focused car might have; steering wheel-mounted metallic red thumb switches seem very "boy racer" for a premium super sedan.
I happen to have driven the latest Mercedes-AMG E63 and E63 S so was looking forward to a bit of comparison, albeit not a perfect back-to-back but good enough to get a feel for the status of this new M car.
What’s it like to drive?
I can only give you a quick impression of what it’s like on the brilliantly smooth surface of Kyalami, a real-world road test will have to wait until we test the M5 on our local roads.
To begin my stint behind the wheel, I built pace gradually. I started with the M5 in Sport mode and was requested not to fiddle with the traction control settings. When I stomped on the sedan's throttle pedal it didn’t provoke the loud bark of excitement from the exhaust I was expecting, but the Bimmer appeared to gather speed with alacrity.
The new M5 feels a little tame to me, having driven the previous generation in just about every form, I was expecting to be hurled back into my seat and sent on a wild ride. With 441 kW and 750 Nm of torque from the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, I was preparing for a ballistic missile. Its power is linear and never brutal, the numbers on the speedo evolve astonishingly quickly but the actual feel is smooth and undramatic.
With a 2WD mode, you can execute these sort of long drifts, but it requires more provoking than in previous versions.
The same goes with the handling in 4WD modes. The nose tucks in quickly and it's alarmingly agile for a 2-tonne sedan, especially in the esses, where it flip-flops from maximum load on one side to maximum load on the other side within tenths of a second. That sort of manoeuvre in the old car would have had you sliding and fighting to keep it all under control.
Gone is the wild rear end when you power out of a corner, the all-wheel drive, combined with a more linear power delivery allows for amazing traction and corner exit speeds.
When you select 4WD Sport, you can provoke the M5's rear end into a bit of power on oversteer, but it’s pulled straight by the differential before it gets to an advanced slide.
What's more, the shifts from the new torque converter automatic are less brutal than those of the outgoing car's M-DCT and deal with the 750 Nm of torque better than the rather viscous and jerky dual-clutch 'box. It will definitely be an improvement in everyday conditions. In fact, it doesn’t feel out of place on track either, shifting seamlessly up and down with swift execution.
Those red levers for the M1 and M2 programmable settings look a little out of place in an otherwise superb cabin. Note the new square gear lever.
Rear-wheel drive is available if you want to get the M5's back-end out of shape or slide around, but the sedan needs to be provoked through hamfisted steering and blunt throttle inputs to get truly loose, it’s not a naturally edgy performance machine, at least not judging by its performance at Kyalami. Long, well-controlled drifts are relatively easy to hold and throttle adjustments keep the rear end dancing to whatever you tune you prefer. It’s probably this "ease of operation" that explains why the M5 now holds the Guinness World Record for the longest drift ever completed in 8 hours at some 235 miles (374 km)
Final thoughts
With the addition of 4WD, it seems the M5 has lost some of that killer instinct and hard-edged feel about it. Its abilities feel accessible; piloting the sedan at heady velocities is not something that you need to build up to and prove yourself before earning. The BMW handles with supreme confidence allowing the driver to take charge and turn in hard and, similarly, power out hard on corner exits.
These aren’t really the traits I’ve become accustomed to in BMW M cars, however. To me it just doesn’t feel as rewarding to push the latest M5 and see where its limits are. The engine is near perfect in terms of the linear acceleration it delivers, but because of that, the acceleration feel isn’t as exciting nor as noticeable as you’d expect, unless you gaze down at the speedo. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S driven on track was more involving and entertaining to drive and had more character to it. It was hard to bond with the M5 despite its unbelievable performance.
In actual fact, it feels very much like a modern quattro Audi RS, and not like a BMW M car. That’s either the perfect attempt to steal all Audi’s RS6 sales or, it could backfire and have the opposite effect.
Pricing
Only 5 of these First Edition models came to SA and have already been snaffled.
A standard BMW M5 is priced at R1 762 806 and is immediately available. The First Edition models, of which there are only 5 in the country, have all been sold for R2 024 006. The First Edition models are notable by the Frozen Dark Red Metallic paint scheme.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-2018-launch-review/44813/
BMW South Africa marked the local market introduction of its latest M car – the F90-generation M5 – with a track session on the Kyalami circuit. We were there to sample the super sedan and get a taste of what it’s like.
What’s new?
It’s an all-new BMW M5, so obviously it’s new from the ground up and based on the latest 5 Series platform. BMW made sure that this newest model was more powerful, even lighter and featured more adjustable driving programmes than ever before. There’s still a 4.4-litre V8 under the bonnet with twin turbos nestled in between the V (the gap between the engine's pair of cylinder banks) delivering the added shove. The roof is made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic in order to lighten the considerable heft of the M5... to an extent.
Drive is sent to all wheels via an automatic (not dual-clutch) 8-speed transmission. All-wheel-drive isn’t entirely new for the M5 as the previous model was available with xDrive (4wd) in some markets. The all-wheel-drive system is adjustable in 3 modes, which rank from all-wheel drive, mostly all-wheel-drive but with a little slidey action and rear-wheel drive only – which is only available with the traction control off.
The new M5 still looks understated and restrained. The perfect sleeper.
The cabin differs from all other M cars as there are distinct additions to the transmission lever – it’s a square lever has the gearbox ferocity settings atop. Then there’s the rather out-of-place red M1 and M2 switches. I say out of place because they feel like gubbins an M4 DTM or track-focused car might have; steering wheel-mounted metallic red thumb switches seem very "boy racer" for a premium super sedan.
I happen to have driven the latest Mercedes-AMG E63 and E63 S so was looking forward to a bit of comparison, albeit not a perfect back-to-back but good enough to get a feel for the status of this new M car.
What’s it like to drive?
I can only give you a quick impression of what it’s like on the brilliantly smooth surface of Kyalami, a real-world road test will have to wait until we test the M5 on our local roads.
To begin my stint behind the wheel, I built pace gradually. I started with the M5 in Sport mode and was requested not to fiddle with the traction control settings. When I stomped on the sedan's throttle pedal it didn’t provoke the loud bark of excitement from the exhaust I was expecting, but the Bimmer appeared to gather speed with alacrity.
The new M5 feels a little tame to me, having driven the previous generation in just about every form, I was expecting to be hurled back into my seat and sent on a wild ride. With 441 kW and 750 Nm of torque from the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, I was preparing for a ballistic missile. Its power is linear and never brutal, the numbers on the speedo evolve astonishingly quickly but the actual feel is smooth and undramatic.
With a 2WD mode, you can execute these sort of long drifts, but it requires more provoking than in previous versions.
The same goes with the handling in 4WD modes. The nose tucks in quickly and it's alarmingly agile for a 2-tonne sedan, especially in the esses, where it flip-flops from maximum load on one side to maximum load on the other side within tenths of a second. That sort of manoeuvre in the old car would have had you sliding and fighting to keep it all under control.
Gone is the wild rear end when you power out of a corner, the all-wheel drive, combined with a more linear power delivery allows for amazing traction and corner exit speeds.
When you select 4WD Sport, you can provoke the M5's rear end into a bit of power on oversteer, but it’s pulled straight by the differential before it gets to an advanced slide.
What's more, the shifts from the new torque converter automatic are less brutal than those of the outgoing car's M-DCT and deal with the 750 Nm of torque better than the rather viscous and jerky dual-clutch 'box. It will definitely be an improvement in everyday conditions. In fact, it doesn’t feel out of place on track either, shifting seamlessly up and down with swift execution.
Those red levers for the M1 and M2 programmable settings look a little out of place in an otherwise superb cabin. Note the new square gear lever.
Rear-wheel drive is available if you want to get the M5's back-end out of shape or slide around, but the sedan needs to be provoked through hamfisted steering and blunt throttle inputs to get truly loose, it’s not a naturally edgy performance machine, at least not judging by its performance at Kyalami. Long, well-controlled drifts are relatively easy to hold and throttle adjustments keep the rear end dancing to whatever you tune you prefer. It’s probably this "ease of operation" that explains why the M5 now holds the Guinness World Record for the longest drift ever completed in 8 hours at some 235 miles (374 km)
Final thoughts
With the addition of 4WD, it seems the M5 has lost some of that killer instinct and hard-edged feel about it. Its abilities feel accessible; piloting the sedan at heady velocities is not something that you need to build up to and prove yourself before earning. The BMW handles with supreme confidence allowing the driver to take charge and turn in hard and, similarly, power out hard on corner exits.
These aren’t really the traits I’ve become accustomed to in BMW M cars, however. To me it just doesn’t feel as rewarding to push the latest M5 and see where its limits are. The engine is near perfect in terms of the linear acceleration it delivers, but because of that, the acceleration feel isn’t as exciting nor as noticeable as you’d expect, unless you gaze down at the speedo. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S driven on track was more involving and entertaining to drive and had more character to it. It was hard to bond with the M5 despite its unbelievable performance.
In actual fact, it feels very much like a modern quattro Audi RS, and not like a BMW M car. That’s either the perfect attempt to steal all Audi’s RS6 sales or, it could backfire and have the opposite effect.
Pricing
Only 5 of these First Edition models came to SA and have already been snaffled.
A standard BMW M5 is priced at R1 762 806 and is immediately available. The First Edition models, of which there are only 5 in the country, have all been sold for R2 024 006. The First Edition models are notable by the Frozen Dark Red Metallic paint scheme.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-2018-launch-review/44813/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
New BMW M5 vs Mercedes-AMG E63 S drag race - TheMotoristSA
[video=youtube_share;Wz67B038gwA]https://youtu.be/Wz67B038gwA[/video]
[video=youtube_share;Wz67B038gwA]https://youtu.be/Wz67B038gwA[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
DRIVEN: BMW M5 xDrive M Steptronic
KYALAMI, Johannesburg – In the CAR office, we spend more time than we’d care to admit discussing power figures (no surprises there, then). We’re also partial to chats about the sort of performance cars we’d buy if we had the money and which ones we’d be desperate to take along to our favourite stretches of tarmac. One such conversation led to a fierce debate about the power output at which the average sportscar would be better served by an all-wheel-drive rather than rear-wheel-drive set-up.
The number we used to settle on, particularly in the case of turbocharged engines, was a fairly conservative 300 kW. But, as you’re no doubt aware, this figure has long since been surpassed. Still, who doesn’t enjoy some minor wheel spin when too much torque is transmitted to the rear axle, or when the performance vehicle in question wiggles its rear end upon exiting a corner a little too briskly? But while it’s certainly fun, it’s not very efficient.
And that brings me neatly to the new F90-generation BMW M5, blessed with 441 kW and 750 N.m … and all-wheel drive. After driving it on track, one thing is clear: BMW (like Mercedes-Benz with the E63) simply didn’t have a choice but to go all-wheel drive. Thankfully, the result is as exciting (if not more so) to drive than before, and significantly more competent, too.
On track…
The local launch took place at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, where we were allocated around six laps each. Although this tells us little about what the new M5 is like to live with on a daily basis, it is unquestionably the best way to experience all the performance the latest M car has to offer. Even though the new M5 is equipped with the requisite all-wheel-drive hardware, BMW says it is lighter than the previous generation M5 (and that’s no small achievement).
On Kyalami in this vehicle, you need virtually only third and fourth gears, but it took only the first few corners to come to terms with how effortlessly fast this car is. At the same time, it’s considerably easier to use more of the power, more of the time.
Being a relatively hefty, luxurious sedan, it is important to remember to rather brake fairly early and enter each corner conservatively. Then, simply wait until the car settles, point the nose towards the exit and depress the loud pedal, with all four wheels effortlessly pulling you out of the turn. In the F10-generation M5, of course, the ESP light would have been flickering manically at this point, forcing you to delay your throttle application if you sought a clean corner exit. No such theatrics here, though.
During our time on track, the revs seldom dropped below 3 500 r/min, affording us constant access to a veritable mountain of torque. For its size, the new M5 turns into corners eagerly and hides its weight exceedingly well.
So, you think you can drive?
There are few things in life more inspiring and enjoyable than experiencing a master in a field applying his or her craft. Gennaro Bonafede, who is currently racing for BMW in the local Sasol GTC Championship, took us for two hot laps each, illustrating just what the M5 is capable of.
Be it through an 80 km/h corner or at three-figure speeds down Mineshaft, Bonafede drifted the M5 in both its all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive settings. I laughed like a little boy as his level of car control put everyone else’s on the day to shame.
Summary
More than ever before, the M5 plays an increased number of roles for more types of drivers, which is surely a good thing. That said, new owners of this super saloon would do well to sample it on track for at least a few laps to become fully acquainted with its abilities. Getting close to this car’s cornering limits and understanding just what the powertrain has to offer is not something you can easily (or legally) experience on a public road.
Ultimately, though, if you simply want one of the fastest performance saloons on the market to enjoy comfortably on the road, the M5 is right up there with the very best. We feel a comparative with a certain Mercedes-AMG product coming on…
Model:BMW M5 xDrive M Steptronic
Price:R1 762 806
Engine:4,4-litre V8, turbopetrol
Power:441 kW between 5 600 and 6 700 r/min
Torque:750 N.m between 1 800 and 5 600 r/min
0-100 km/h:3,4 seconds
Top Speed:250 km/h (305 km/h with the optional driver's package)
Fuel Consumption:10,5 L/100 km
CO2:241 g/km
Transmission:8-speed, M Steptronic
Maintenance Plan:5-years/100 000 km
Notes:*All claimed figures
http://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driving-impressions/driven-bmw-m5-xdrive-m-steptronic-2/
KYALAMI, Johannesburg – In the CAR office, we spend more time than we’d care to admit discussing power figures (no surprises there, then). We’re also partial to chats about the sort of performance cars we’d buy if we had the money and which ones we’d be desperate to take along to our favourite stretches of tarmac. One such conversation led to a fierce debate about the power output at which the average sportscar would be better served by an all-wheel-drive rather than rear-wheel-drive set-up.
The number we used to settle on, particularly in the case of turbocharged engines, was a fairly conservative 300 kW. But, as you’re no doubt aware, this figure has long since been surpassed. Still, who doesn’t enjoy some minor wheel spin when too much torque is transmitted to the rear axle, or when the performance vehicle in question wiggles its rear end upon exiting a corner a little too briskly? But while it’s certainly fun, it’s not very efficient.
And that brings me neatly to the new F90-generation BMW M5, blessed with 441 kW and 750 N.m … and all-wheel drive. After driving it on track, one thing is clear: BMW (like Mercedes-Benz with the E63) simply didn’t have a choice but to go all-wheel drive. Thankfully, the result is as exciting (if not more so) to drive than before, and significantly more competent, too.
On track…
The local launch took place at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, where we were allocated around six laps each. Although this tells us little about what the new M5 is like to live with on a daily basis, it is unquestionably the best way to experience all the performance the latest M car has to offer. Even though the new M5 is equipped with the requisite all-wheel-drive hardware, BMW says it is lighter than the previous generation M5 (and that’s no small achievement).
On Kyalami in this vehicle, you need virtually only third and fourth gears, but it took only the first few corners to come to terms with how effortlessly fast this car is. At the same time, it’s considerably easier to use more of the power, more of the time.
Being a relatively hefty, luxurious sedan, it is important to remember to rather brake fairly early and enter each corner conservatively. Then, simply wait until the car settles, point the nose towards the exit and depress the loud pedal, with all four wheels effortlessly pulling you out of the turn. In the F10-generation M5, of course, the ESP light would have been flickering manically at this point, forcing you to delay your throttle application if you sought a clean corner exit. No such theatrics here, though.
During our time on track, the revs seldom dropped below 3 500 r/min, affording us constant access to a veritable mountain of torque. For its size, the new M5 turns into corners eagerly and hides its weight exceedingly well.
So, you think you can drive?
There are few things in life more inspiring and enjoyable than experiencing a master in a field applying his or her craft. Gennaro Bonafede, who is currently racing for BMW in the local Sasol GTC Championship, took us for two hot laps each, illustrating just what the M5 is capable of.
Be it through an 80 km/h corner or at three-figure speeds down Mineshaft, Bonafede drifted the M5 in both its all-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive settings. I laughed like a little boy as his level of car control put everyone else’s on the day to shame.
Summary
More than ever before, the M5 plays an increased number of roles for more types of drivers, which is surely a good thing. That said, new owners of this super saloon would do well to sample it on track for at least a few laps to become fully acquainted with its abilities. Getting close to this car’s cornering limits and understanding just what the powertrain has to offer is not something you can easily (or legally) experience on a public road.
Ultimately, though, if you simply want one of the fastest performance saloons on the market to enjoy comfortably on the road, the M5 is right up there with the very best. We feel a comparative with a certain Mercedes-AMG product coming on…
Model:BMW M5 xDrive M Steptronic
Price:R1 762 806
Engine:4,4-litre V8, turbopetrol
Power:441 kW between 5 600 and 6 700 r/min
Torque:750 N.m between 1 800 and 5 600 r/min
0-100 km/h:3,4 seconds
Top Speed:250 km/h (305 km/h with the optional driver's package)
Fuel Consumption:10,5 L/100 km
CO2:241 g/km
Transmission:8-speed, M Steptronic
Maintenance Plan:5-years/100 000 km
Notes:*All claimed figures
http://www.carmag.co.za/car-reviews/driving-impressions/driven-bmw-m5-xdrive-m-steptronic-2/