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2018 BMW M5
- Thread starter dlk001
- Start date
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Auto Express review
[video=youtube_share;bLeK5DKT4H0]https://youtu.be/bLeK5DKT4H0[/video]
[video=youtube_share;bLeK5DKT4H0]https://youtu.be/bLeK5DKT4H0[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Autocar review
[video=youtube_share;sQJdH2V_kdk]https://youtu.be/sQJdH2V_kdk[/video]
[video=youtube_share;sQJdH2V_kdk]https://youtu.be/sQJdH2V_kdk[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 2018 review
Should I buy one?
The M5 is composed and even a bit adjustable in standard 4WD mode, a touch more so in 4WD Sport mode, and you can steer it on the throttle in either. Though, of course, because it’s a modern car with bags of ability and performance, actually on the road you don’t. You just feel it’s rear-driven because the steering remains uncorrupted and you’re always aware in minor chassis movements that it’s beautifully neutral and being pushed rather than pulled.
Until, of course, you particularly want to turn everything off and give the M5 the absolute lot, as you might want to on a circuit, and really should if you buy one. In which case, it becomes an absolute destroyer of tyres and will be smoking them in the highest levels, with its hugely rewarding stance that shows it has the very best kind of front-engine, long-wheelbase, rear-drive physics.
So there you have it. A tremendous car, at one moment refined and conservative, at another rewarding and poised, with loads of sophisticated hardware, and an even bigger set of massively sophisticated software, controlling its every movement and interaction. Which is still at its best when you turn it all off.
BMW M5
Where Portugal On sale March 2018 Price £89,640 Engine V8, 4395cc, twin-turbocharged, petrol Power 592bhp at 5600-6700rpm Torque 553lb ft at 1800-5600rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 1930kg Top speed 190mph 0-62mph 3.4sec Fuel economy 26.9mpg CO2, tax band 241g/km, 37% Rivals Alfa Romeo Guilia Quadrifoglio, Mercedes-AMG E63
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/m5/first-drives/bmw-m5-2018-review
Should I buy one?
The M5 is composed and even a bit adjustable in standard 4WD mode, a touch more so in 4WD Sport mode, and you can steer it on the throttle in either. Though, of course, because it’s a modern car with bags of ability and performance, actually on the road you don’t. You just feel it’s rear-driven because the steering remains uncorrupted and you’re always aware in minor chassis movements that it’s beautifully neutral and being pushed rather than pulled.
Until, of course, you particularly want to turn everything off and give the M5 the absolute lot, as you might want to on a circuit, and really should if you buy one. In which case, it becomes an absolute destroyer of tyres and will be smoking them in the highest levels, with its hugely rewarding stance that shows it has the very best kind of front-engine, long-wheelbase, rear-drive physics.
So there you have it. A tremendous car, at one moment refined and conservative, at another rewarding and poised, with loads of sophisticated hardware, and an even bigger set of massively sophisticated software, controlling its every movement and interaction. Which is still at its best when you turn it all off.
BMW M5
Where Portugal On sale March 2018 Price £89,640 Engine V8, 4395cc, twin-turbocharged, petrol Power 592bhp at 5600-6700rpm Torque 553lb ft at 1800-5600rpm Gearbox 8-spd automatic Kerb weight 1930kg Top speed 190mph 0-62mph 3.4sec Fuel economy 26.9mpg CO2, tax band 241g/km, 37% Rivals Alfa Romeo Guilia Quadrifoglio, Mercedes-AMG E63
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/m5/first-drives/bmw-m5-2018-review
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Carfection review
[video=youtube_share;HOMTa4FOrI4]https://youtu.be/HOMTa4FOrI4[/video]
[video=youtube_share;HOMTa4FOrI4]https://youtu.be/HOMTa4FOrI4[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Shmee's 29min review
[video=youtube_share;xUxtYl0iR78]https://youtu.be/xUxtYl0iR78[/video]
[video=youtube_share;xUxtYl0iR78]https://youtu.be/xUxtYl0iR78[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Carwow review
[video=youtube_share;hxsBUkm9vBs]https://youtu.be/hxsBUkm9vBs[/video]
[video=youtube_share;hxsBUkm9vBs]https://youtu.be/hxsBUkm9vBs[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
CarAdvice review
[video=youtube_share;nHL9NkpMN9s]https://youtu.be/nHL9NkpMN9s[/video]
[video=youtube_share;nHL9NkpMN9s]https://youtu.be/nHL9NkpMN9s[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
DRIVEN: BMW M5 XDRIVE M STEPTRONIC
ESTORIL, Portugal – BMW’s new M5 has taken a route that’s becoming all the more common in the performance car realm, ditching its long-standing rear-wheel drive configuration in favour of a new all-wheel-drive setup. It’s a move that will no doubt have the purists moaning, but it could well be a blessing in disguise…
Four on the floor
Much like its closest rival, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S, the new M5 adopts an intelligent AWD system with a transfer case that features a multi-clutch arrangement that can apportion drive fore or aft. This system is supplemented by an active rear differential with a 0-100% locking spread that is designed to counter the understeer that often afflicts powerful AWD cars. The fear that AWD would add considerable mass to the new car is allayed somewhat by the fact that the M5’s item adds only around 60 kg to the overall kerb weight.
Subtle sledgehammer
BMW’s M creations have become progressively subtler of late, and the M5 is an especially demure creature. The obligatory flared arches, more blown-up three-vent front apron and more pronounced exhausts are present and correct. Perhaps the most prominent feature is the car’s carbon-fibre-reinforced-plastic roof panel that, although lighter than a steel equivalent, contributes to a kerb weight that’s only around 15 kg lighter than that of the previous car.
Iron fist
While sweeping changes have taken place in underpinnings of the new BMW M5, the 4,4-litre powerplant has been left largely untouched. Obviously, tweaks to such elements as engine management, fuel injection, turbochargers and the like have seen the outputs climb from the previous car’s 412 kW and 680 N.m to a lustier 441 kW and 750 N.m of twist – outputs that BMW claims will propel the car from standstill to 100 km/h in just 3,4 seconds on the way to a 305 km/h top speed. Those of you who have read our on-paper stats comparison will see that these figures are as close-to-dammit as those of the rival Mercedes-AMG E63 S.
Velvet boots
Given its performance-oriented bearing, the M5’s suspension is surprisingly compliant, allowing it to negotiate the patchwork of road surfaces in a composed and cosseting manner. In fact, on the road the M5 is rather demure. Even with the sports exhaust in full song there’s little other than a subdued burble permeating the cabin and barring the fat steering wheel and more form-fitting seats you could just as well be ensconced in any of the powerful 5 Series models. It’s only when you switch the drive selector into a sportier setting and roll down the window that you’ll become aware of this car’s pedigree as a chorus of blusters, cracks and growls from the tail ricochet off your surroundings.
On the road
Despite the marginal weight difference between them, the newer car’s AWD setup and the progressive yet pleasing manner in which it transfers power to the blacktop makes it feel more balanced and nimbler than the sometimes-portly feeling predecessor. There’s a considerable amount of configurability on offer here, with the steering, damping, transmission and drivetrain each receiving three settings … not to mention the AWD system, which also receives a trio of configurations (AWD, sports AWD and RWD), so crafting a combination that best suits your driving style requires some fiddling.
Once you’ve found your preferred combination, though, the M5 feels satisfyingly wieldy with just enough slack in the leash to allow some tail-wagging with the AWD module in its middle setting. Engage RWD and the M5 becomes unruly enough to placate purists and scare the rest of us. The steering is responsive, while the body control is a bit softer than the E63’s. Still, it’s not stodgy and doesn’t take long to get into the rhythm of how the body settles into tighter sections of road.
Some may argue that the adoption of AWD has eroded some of the old car’s liveliness, but the M5’s engineers have done a sterling job of configuring the performance AWD system in such a way that in most driving scenarios you’d be hard-pressed to tell if the front wheels are chiming into proceedings. But it’s on the track where the sparkle behind the M5’s added drive really comes to the fore.
On the track
Estoril is a bizarre circuit that flits from fast and flowing, to tight and technical with alacrity, lending it perfectly to RWD cars that can skim through corners courtesy of traction and throttle control. Our first couple of laps are undertaken with the M1 button preset to the standard AWD setup. There’s plenty of grip on offer in this configuration, but you can feel the rear sports differential helping to tuck the nose into tighter corners, effectively nixing the nose-heavy understeer that often afflicts larger AWD performance cars.
The next couple of laps saw the M2 button, pre-set to AWD sport, enter proceedings. Here things become livelier but not so loose as to mercilessly spit you out mid-corner. Where margin between stable and sideways was a very thin one the old car, the new M5 feels more progressive and communicative in the manner it transitions from grip to slip.
The verdict
The M5’s impressive grip inspires confidence, while the AWD setup gives just enough latitude so that you can still have some fun. It’s an impressively balanced package, although some may feel that it errs on the slightly conservative side in terms of its cosmetics and in-cabin soundtrack. But these are minor quibbles in a car that looks set to give its Affalterbach rival a serious run for its money.
Fast facts
Model: BMW M5 xDrive M Steptronic
Price: TBA
Engine: 4,4-litre, biturbo V8
Power: 441 kW
Torque: 750 N.m
0-100 km/h: 3,4 sec
Top Speed: 305 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 10,5 L/100 km
CO2: 241 g/km
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Maintenance Plan: 5 yr/100 000 km
ETA: Q1 2018
http://www.carmag.co.za/driving_impression/driven-bmw-m5-xdrive-m-steptronic/
ESTORIL, Portugal – BMW’s new M5 has taken a route that’s becoming all the more common in the performance car realm, ditching its long-standing rear-wheel drive configuration in favour of a new all-wheel-drive setup. It’s a move that will no doubt have the purists moaning, but it could well be a blessing in disguise…
Four on the floor
Much like its closest rival, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S, the new M5 adopts an intelligent AWD system with a transfer case that features a multi-clutch arrangement that can apportion drive fore or aft. This system is supplemented by an active rear differential with a 0-100% locking spread that is designed to counter the understeer that often afflicts powerful AWD cars. The fear that AWD would add considerable mass to the new car is allayed somewhat by the fact that the M5’s item adds only around 60 kg to the overall kerb weight.
Subtle sledgehammer
BMW’s M creations have become progressively subtler of late, and the M5 is an especially demure creature. The obligatory flared arches, more blown-up three-vent front apron and more pronounced exhausts are present and correct. Perhaps the most prominent feature is the car’s carbon-fibre-reinforced-plastic roof panel that, although lighter than a steel equivalent, contributes to a kerb weight that’s only around 15 kg lighter than that of the previous car.
Iron fist
While sweeping changes have taken place in underpinnings of the new BMW M5, the 4,4-litre powerplant has been left largely untouched. Obviously, tweaks to such elements as engine management, fuel injection, turbochargers and the like have seen the outputs climb from the previous car’s 412 kW and 680 N.m to a lustier 441 kW and 750 N.m of twist – outputs that BMW claims will propel the car from standstill to 100 km/h in just 3,4 seconds on the way to a 305 km/h top speed. Those of you who have read our on-paper stats comparison will see that these figures are as close-to-dammit as those of the rival Mercedes-AMG E63 S.
Velvet boots
Given its performance-oriented bearing, the M5’s suspension is surprisingly compliant, allowing it to negotiate the patchwork of road surfaces in a composed and cosseting manner. In fact, on the road the M5 is rather demure. Even with the sports exhaust in full song there’s little other than a subdued burble permeating the cabin and barring the fat steering wheel and more form-fitting seats you could just as well be ensconced in any of the powerful 5 Series models. It’s only when you switch the drive selector into a sportier setting and roll down the window that you’ll become aware of this car’s pedigree as a chorus of blusters, cracks and growls from the tail ricochet off your surroundings.
On the road
Despite the marginal weight difference between them, the newer car’s AWD setup and the progressive yet pleasing manner in which it transfers power to the blacktop makes it feel more balanced and nimbler than the sometimes-portly feeling predecessor. There’s a considerable amount of configurability on offer here, with the steering, damping, transmission and drivetrain each receiving three settings … not to mention the AWD system, which also receives a trio of configurations (AWD, sports AWD and RWD), so crafting a combination that best suits your driving style requires some fiddling.
Once you’ve found your preferred combination, though, the M5 feels satisfyingly wieldy with just enough slack in the leash to allow some tail-wagging with the AWD module in its middle setting. Engage RWD and the M5 becomes unruly enough to placate purists and scare the rest of us. The steering is responsive, while the body control is a bit softer than the E63’s. Still, it’s not stodgy and doesn’t take long to get into the rhythm of how the body settles into tighter sections of road.
Some may argue that the adoption of AWD has eroded some of the old car’s liveliness, but the M5’s engineers have done a sterling job of configuring the performance AWD system in such a way that in most driving scenarios you’d be hard-pressed to tell if the front wheels are chiming into proceedings. But it’s on the track where the sparkle behind the M5’s added drive really comes to the fore.
On the track
Estoril is a bizarre circuit that flits from fast and flowing, to tight and technical with alacrity, lending it perfectly to RWD cars that can skim through corners courtesy of traction and throttle control. Our first couple of laps are undertaken with the M1 button preset to the standard AWD setup. There’s plenty of grip on offer in this configuration, but you can feel the rear sports differential helping to tuck the nose into tighter corners, effectively nixing the nose-heavy understeer that often afflicts larger AWD performance cars.
The next couple of laps saw the M2 button, pre-set to AWD sport, enter proceedings. Here things become livelier but not so loose as to mercilessly spit you out mid-corner. Where margin between stable and sideways was a very thin one the old car, the new M5 feels more progressive and communicative in the manner it transitions from grip to slip.
The verdict
The M5’s impressive grip inspires confidence, while the AWD setup gives just enough latitude so that you can still have some fun. It’s an impressively balanced package, although some may feel that it errs on the slightly conservative side in terms of its cosmetics and in-cabin soundtrack. But these are minor quibbles in a car that looks set to give its Affalterbach rival a serious run for its money.
Fast facts
Model: BMW M5 xDrive M Steptronic
Price: TBA
Engine: 4,4-litre, biturbo V8
Power: 441 kW
Torque: 750 N.m
0-100 km/h: 3,4 sec
Top Speed: 305 km/h
Fuel Consumption: 10,5 L/100 km
CO2: 241 g/km
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Maintenance Plan: 5 yr/100 000 km
ETA: Q1 2018
http://www.carmag.co.za/driving_impression/driven-bmw-m5-xdrive-m-steptronic/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
Driven: BMW's new M5 gets its grip on
You have to wonder why such an obvious solution hasn’t happened sooner. If offroad vehicles can have switchable transfer cases to send drive to either one or both axles depending on traction necessities, why can’t high performance passenger cars?
Here’s the deal: brands like BMW which pride themselves on driver engagement and balanced handling (both politically correct ways of saying driftworthiness) have found themselves in a bit of a conundrum in recent years, where rear-wheel drive isn’t really effective at coping with such absurd power outputs anymore.
Take the now discontinued fifth generation M5 for example. We spent around 10 000km with one on long-term test, and a good portion of that distance was spent with the traction control light flickering.
And that car had “only” 423kW and 680Nm. The new sixth generation model launched to the world in Portugal last week is tuned to an all-time M5 high of 441kW and 750Nm.
That’s enough oomph to have stability control systems suffering constant conniption fits, or, when switched off, back tyres permanently fighting for grip.
The fix, as Audi discovered with quattro almost 40 years ago, is to send power to both axles and all four contact patches. Great for traction, terrible for getting your drift on out of corners - and that’s a trait BMW holds quite dear.
So, for this M5 BMW’s offering both. In its default setting the new super saloon is an all-wheel driven monster, ready to dig its claws into tarmac and launch from 0-100km/h in a claimed 3.4 seconds.
But then fiddle around in the drive menus and it’s possible to engage 2WD Mode for pure tyre shredding, smoke billowing, hooliganism.
In typical stiff upper lip German fashion BMW says the system allows the new M5 to be “compatible with historic values”, meaning that like every M car before it, it can take a bend with some degree of oversteer. True to an extent.
But consider the power at hand, and that 2WD Mode is only available with DSC switched completely off, and it’s clear that this clever addition is a token feature built in for customers who want to be very naughty at times. Anyone for doughnuts?
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.
With the front axle disengaged the M5’s steering weight lightens up, and mid-corner pitch angles can be adjusted with handy application of throttle.
But it must be said that anyone willing to explore this 5 metre-long sedan’s tail-happiness MUST have the driver skill 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.
Impressively, and even with all the extra gear underneath to make all-wheel drive happen, BMW has managed to shave around 60kg from the new model.
This is thanks to a standard carbonfibre roof (the first on an M5), a lightweight exhaust system and optional ceramic brakes which shed 23kg on their own.
Under the hood is an evolution of the previous M5’s 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8. Disappointing maybe, considering the rest of the car is new from the ground up, but BMW’s done well to give it a fresh characteristic.
New turbos, higher injection pressure and a clever exhaust header routing makes for sharper, less laggy response.
Plus it’s much more vocal this time around. Under full load there’s a distinct turbo whistle mixed with the huff of eight big lungs expelling gases through four tailpipes. Think hurricane Irma meets the Daytona 500.
This M5 ditches the old one’s seven-speed dual-clutch ‘DCT’ gearbox for a new eight-speed torque converter unit.
Shifts might not be quite as crisp as before when flat out, but the tradeoff is much smoother operation at slower speeds. Overall I’d say the new transmission is an improvement.
Inside it’s all current 5 Series with digital climate control screens, various perfume spritzer settings, gesture controlled infotainment menus and leather trimmed dash inserts.
But there are some new M5 specific bits such as the gear lever with shift harshness settings built into its top, beautiful bucket seats with light-up logos under the headrests, a black alcantara headliner and a shiny red starter button.
Those M1 and M2 pre-programmed drive mode buttons M car customers know well from past steering wheels are now bright red toggles just ahead of the shift paddles, that look like something Maverick would have pushed before firing a heat-seeker at enemy Migs in Top Gun. A slightly tacky inclusion in an otherwise strictly business cabin.
The new M5 is due for South African launch next March, and though we don’t have pricing yet BMW SA says it’s aiming for right around the R1.8-million mark.
That’ll put it into direct price competition with its arch nemesis, Merc’s recently-introduced E63 S AMG - a car which beat the Bavarians to the so-called switchable “drift mode” mode punch, and with quite a bit more power at 450kW and 850Nm.
But for the record both cars come with the same claimed 3.4 second acceleration times and that’s probably down to the M5’s lightness. At 1855kg it’s exactly 100kg lighter than the Merc.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/driven-bmws-new-m5-gets-its-grip-on-12299425
You have to wonder why such an obvious solution hasn’t happened sooner. If offroad vehicles can have switchable transfer cases to send drive to either one or both axles depending on traction necessities, why can’t high performance passenger cars?
Here’s the deal: brands like BMW which pride themselves on driver engagement and balanced handling (both politically correct ways of saying driftworthiness) have found themselves in a bit of a conundrum in recent years, where rear-wheel drive isn’t really effective at coping with such absurd power outputs anymore.
Take the now discontinued fifth generation M5 for example. We spent around 10 000km with one on long-term test, and a good portion of that distance was spent with the traction control light flickering.
And that car had “only” 423kW and 680Nm. The new sixth generation model launched to the world in Portugal last week is tuned to an all-time M5 high of 441kW and 750Nm.
That’s enough oomph to have stability control systems suffering constant conniption fits, or, when switched off, back tyres permanently fighting for grip.
The fix, as Audi discovered with quattro almost 40 years ago, is to send power to both axles and all four contact patches. Great for traction, terrible for getting your drift on out of corners - and that’s a trait BMW holds quite dear.
So, for this M5 BMW’s offering both. In its default setting the new super saloon is an all-wheel driven monster, ready to dig its claws into tarmac and launch from 0-100km/h in a claimed 3.4 seconds.
But then fiddle around in the drive menus and it’s possible to engage 2WD Mode for pure tyre shredding, smoke billowing, hooliganism.
In typical stiff upper lip German fashion BMW says the system allows the new M5 to be “compatible with historic values”, meaning that like every M car before it, it can take a bend with some degree of oversteer. True to an extent.
But consider the power at hand, and that 2WD Mode is only available with DSC switched completely off, and it’s clear that this clever addition is a token feature built in for customers who want to be very naughty at times. Anyone for doughnuts?
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.
With the front axle disengaged the M5’s steering weight lightens up, and mid-corner pitch angles can be adjusted with handy application of throttle.
But it must be said that anyone willing to explore this 5 metre-long sedan’s tail-happiness MUST have the driver skill 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.
Impressively, and even with all the extra gear underneath to make all-wheel drive happen, BMW has managed to shave around 60kg from the new model.
This is thanks to a standard carbonfibre roof (the first on an M5), a lightweight exhaust system and optional ceramic brakes which shed 23kg on their own.
Under the hood is an evolution of the previous M5’s 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8. Disappointing maybe, considering the rest of the car is new from the ground up, but BMW’s done well to give it a fresh characteristic.
New turbos, higher injection pressure and a clever exhaust header routing makes for sharper, less laggy response.
Plus it’s much more vocal this time around. Under full load there’s a distinct turbo whistle mixed with the huff of eight big lungs expelling gases through four tailpipes. Think hurricane Irma meets the Daytona 500.
This M5 ditches the old one’s seven-speed dual-clutch ‘DCT’ gearbox for a new eight-speed torque converter unit.
Shifts might not be quite as crisp as before when flat out, but the tradeoff is much smoother operation at slower speeds. Overall I’d say the new transmission is an improvement.
Inside it’s all current 5 Series with digital climate control screens, various perfume spritzer settings, gesture controlled infotainment menus and leather trimmed dash inserts.
But there are some new M5 specific bits such as the gear lever with shift harshness settings built into its top, beautiful bucket seats with light-up logos under the headrests, a black alcantara headliner and a shiny red starter button.
Those M1 and M2 pre-programmed drive mode buttons M car customers know well from past steering wheels are now bright red toggles just ahead of the shift paddles, that look like something Maverick would have pushed before firing a heat-seeker at enemy Migs in Top Gun. A slightly tacky inclusion in an otherwise strictly business cabin.
The new M5 is due for South African launch next March, and though we don’t have pricing yet BMW SA says it’s aiming for right around the R1.8-million mark.
That’ll put it into direct price competition with its arch nemesis, Merc’s recently-introduced E63 S AMG - a car which beat the Bavarians to the so-called switchable “drift mode” mode punch, and with quite a bit more power at 450kW and 850Nm.
But for the record both cars come with the same claimed 3.4 second acceleration times and that’s probably down to the M5’s lightness. At 1855kg it’s exactly 100kg lighter than the Merc.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/driven-bmws-new-m5-gets-its-grip-on-12299425
FiestaST
Honorary Master
New BMW M5 video moves the goalposts - literally!
BMW’s marketing for the new M5 has centred less on its outright performance*, impressive though that is, and more on its all-wheel drive architecture, this being the first M sedan to be offered with xDrive as standard issue.
Publicity material for the Blue Propeller’s fastest 4 x 4 x Far (Sorry, Land Rover, we couldn’t resist) has made much of of its precision road-holding and ultimate controllability - but this promo video takes things to a whole new level.
It’s all very well drifting a big luxury sedan at high speed through a traditional slalom course laid out with cones on the floor of a warehouse - but then imagine if those cones could move around, shifting and reforming the layout of the course from moment to moment!
This video from the M skunk works not only shows the result, but also gives a fascinating glimpse into how it was done.
*On the well-established petrolhead premise that if lots is good, more is better and too much is just about right, BMW has confirmed (without saying when) that an optional Competition Package for the M5 is on the way, including a power increase from 447kW to 477kW, uprated suspension and ceramic brakes. Yes please.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/new-bmw-m5-video-moves-the-goalposts-literally-12586748
[video=youtube;GgVE_CYcZ1I]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgVE_CYcZ1I[/video]
BMW’s marketing for the new M5 has centred less on its outright performance*, impressive though that is, and more on its all-wheel drive architecture, this being the first M sedan to be offered with xDrive as standard issue.
Publicity material for the Blue Propeller’s fastest 4 x 4 x Far (Sorry, Land Rover, we couldn’t resist) has made much of of its precision road-holding and ultimate controllability - but this promo video takes things to a whole new level.
It’s all very well drifting a big luxury sedan at high speed through a traditional slalom course laid out with cones on the floor of a warehouse - but then imagine if those cones could move around, shifting and reforming the layout of the course from moment to moment!
This video from the M skunk works not only shows the result, but also gives a fascinating glimpse into how it was done.
*On the well-established petrolhead premise that if lots is good, more is better and too much is just about right, BMW has confirmed (without saying when) that an optional Competition Package for the M5 is on the way, including a power increase from 447kW to 477kW, uprated suspension and ceramic brakes. Yes please.
https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/industry-news/new-bmw-m5-video-moves-the-goalposts-literally-12586748
[video=youtube;GgVE_CYcZ1I]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GgVE_CYcZ1I[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
5 Cool Performance Cars Coming to SA in 2018
If outright performance is what you are looking for in 2018, then check out these 5 cars that are bound to scratch your performance itch…
There’s a wide range of new product headed for South Africa, including some potent machinery that will satisfy the needs of buyers looking to light up the tar. Here are 5 performance cars to look out for this year…
Aston Martin Vantage
An all-new Aston Martin Vantage is expected to make an appearance this year and it looks phenomenal. It will be powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with 375 kW and 685 Nm of torque. An 8-speed ZF transmission will propel the Vantage from zero to 100 kph in about 3.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 313 kph. Its date of arrival in South Africa is yet to be confirmed, but it’s definitely a car to look out for in 2018.
BMW M5
The highly anticipated BMW M5 is due to arrive in South Africa in March 2018. Enthusiasts can look forward to a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 441 kW and 750 Nm of torque that will, for the first time in the M5, power all four wheels using an 8-speed automatic transmission. The driver can, however, choose to direct power to the rear wheels exclusively too…
The new M5 will reportedly decimate the zero to 100 kph sprint in 3.4 seconds before tapping out at its electronically limited top speed of 250 kph. There will be an M Driver’s Package on offer that will increase the top speed to 305 kph...
Honda Civic Type R
Honda will launch its new, hardcore Civic Type R sometime this year and it will arrive 16 kg lighter than the model it replaces. A turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine will develop no less than 228 kW and 400 Nm of torque with an enhanced 6-speed manual transmission directing power to the front wheels. The Civic Type R is claimed to take 5.7 seconds to sprint from zero to 100 kph before reaching a top speed of 272 kph. We will keep you updated as soon as definitive launch details emerge.
Porsche 911 GT2 RS
The fastest and most powerful road-legal 911 to date, the 911 GT2 RS will make landfall in South Africa early in 2018. It’s by far the fastest car on this list and will use a twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine that develops a mammoth 515 kW and 750 Nm of torque that will allow the Porsche to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in an eye-watering 2.8 seconds before reaching its top speed at 340 kph using a 7-speed PDK transmission. The 911 GT2 RS is expected to arrive locally in limited numbers.
Renault Megane RS
The new Renault Megane RS is expected to arrive in mid-2018 and it’s bound to thrill hot-hatch enthusiasts with its new turbocharged 1.8-litre engine with peak outputs of 205 kW and 390 Nm of torque. The Megane RS Sport and Cup versions are expected to arrive first with the more powerful Megane RS Trophy following later in 2018 or 2019. Buyers will, for the first time, have the choice between a 6-speed manual or 6-speed EDC transmission. The Megane RS is said to be capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 kph in 5.8 seconds.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/5-cool-performance-cars-coming-to-sa-in-2018/44450/
If outright performance is what you are looking for in 2018, then check out these 5 cars that are bound to scratch your performance itch…
There’s a wide range of new product headed for South Africa, including some potent machinery that will satisfy the needs of buyers looking to light up the tar. Here are 5 performance cars to look out for this year…
Aston Martin Vantage
An all-new Aston Martin Vantage is expected to make an appearance this year and it looks phenomenal. It will be powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with 375 kW and 685 Nm of torque. An 8-speed ZF transmission will propel the Vantage from zero to 100 kph in about 3.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 313 kph. Its date of arrival in South Africa is yet to be confirmed, but it’s definitely a car to look out for in 2018.
BMW M5
The highly anticipated BMW M5 is due to arrive in South Africa in March 2018. Enthusiasts can look forward to a 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 441 kW and 750 Nm of torque that will, for the first time in the M5, power all four wheels using an 8-speed automatic transmission. The driver can, however, choose to direct power to the rear wheels exclusively too…
The new M5 will reportedly decimate the zero to 100 kph sprint in 3.4 seconds before tapping out at its electronically limited top speed of 250 kph. There will be an M Driver’s Package on offer that will increase the top speed to 305 kph...
Honda Civic Type R
Honda will launch its new, hardcore Civic Type R sometime this year and it will arrive 16 kg lighter than the model it replaces. A turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine will develop no less than 228 kW and 400 Nm of torque with an enhanced 6-speed manual transmission directing power to the front wheels. The Civic Type R is claimed to take 5.7 seconds to sprint from zero to 100 kph before reaching a top speed of 272 kph. We will keep you updated as soon as definitive launch details emerge.
Porsche 911 GT2 RS
The fastest and most powerful road-legal 911 to date, the 911 GT2 RS will make landfall in South Africa early in 2018. It’s by far the fastest car on this list and will use a twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six engine that develops a mammoth 515 kW and 750 Nm of torque that will allow the Porsche to accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in an eye-watering 2.8 seconds before reaching its top speed at 340 kph using a 7-speed PDK transmission. The 911 GT2 RS is expected to arrive locally in limited numbers.
Renault Megane RS
The new Renault Megane RS is expected to arrive in mid-2018 and it’s bound to thrill hot-hatch enthusiasts with its new turbocharged 1.8-litre engine with peak outputs of 205 kW and 390 Nm of torque. The Megane RS Sport and Cup versions are expected to arrive first with the more powerful Megane RS Trophy following later in 2018 or 2019. Buyers will, for the first time, have the choice between a 6-speed manual or 6-speed EDC transmission. The Megane RS is said to be capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 kph in 5.8 seconds.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/5-cool-performance-cars-coming-to-sa-in-2018/44450/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 breaks world record for the longest drift
The M5 had to be refuelled five times across the 232.5-mile feat, which was achieved with the help of another M5 drifting in tandem with a fuel rig
BMW has smashed the record for the longest continuous wet drift undertaken in eight hours, setting a distance of 232.5 miles.
BMW racing driver Johan Schwartz took to the wheel of the new M5 to complete the marathon stunt, with Matt Mullins, another professional BMW precision driver, taking control of the refuel car, which was an F10 M5.
The new M5 was refuelled five times during the stunt, and averaged a speed of 29mph.
The previous record, set by German driver Harald Müller in a Toyota GT86, was less than half of BMW’s effort at 89.55 miles. The record was set in July 2014. BMW has a history of drift records, however, having set a longest drift record of 51.278 miles in 2013, in the previous-generation M5. Autocar staffer Mauro Calo previously broke the record in 2011 with a dry 1.43-mile drift in a Mercedes-AMG C63.
The attempt broke another record as the two cars drifted in tandem for 49.25 miles over one hour. This is the longest twin-vehicle drift recorded by Guinness. A custom refuelling system was installed on both cars to ensure the safety and smoothness of refuelling while the record attempt was underway.
Schwartz said: “We knew that if we were going to recapture the world record for the longest sustained drift and set the bar as high as possible, we would need to find a way to keep the M5 going without stopping to refuel. In the end, the refueling system worked flawlessly and the M5 performed as expected. It was a big win all around.”
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-m5-breaks-world-record-longest-drift
The M5 had to be refuelled five times across the 232.5-mile feat, which was achieved with the help of another M5 drifting in tandem with a fuel rig
BMW has smashed the record for the longest continuous wet drift undertaken in eight hours, setting a distance of 232.5 miles.
BMW racing driver Johan Schwartz took to the wheel of the new M5 to complete the marathon stunt, with Matt Mullins, another professional BMW precision driver, taking control of the refuel car, which was an F10 M5.
The new M5 was refuelled five times during the stunt, and averaged a speed of 29mph.
The previous record, set by German driver Harald Müller in a Toyota GT86, was less than half of BMW’s effort at 89.55 miles. The record was set in July 2014. BMW has a history of drift records, however, having set a longest drift record of 51.278 miles in 2013, in the previous-generation M5. Autocar staffer Mauro Calo previously broke the record in 2011 with a dry 1.43-mile drift in a Mercedes-AMG C63.
The attempt broke another record as the two cars drifted in tandem for 49.25 miles over one hour. This is the longest twin-vehicle drift recorded by Guinness. A custom refuelling system was installed on both cars to ensure the safety and smoothness of refuelling while the record attempt was underway.
Schwartz said: “We knew that if we were going to recapture the world record for the longest sustained drift and set the bar as high as possible, we would need to find a way to keep the M5 going without stopping to refuel. In the end, the refueling system worked flawlessly and the M5 performed as expected. It was a big win all around.”
https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-m5-breaks-world-record-longest-drift
Binary_Bark
Forging
BMW M5 smashes world record with 232.5-mile drift
https://newatlas.com/bmw-m5-world-record-drifting/52903/
[video=youtube;b24JH5yX8_s]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b24JH5yX8_s[/video]
https://newatlas.com/bmw-m5-world-record-drifting/52903/
[video=youtube;b24JH5yX8_s]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b24JH5yX8_s[/video]
FiestaST
Honorary Master
New BMW M5 smashes two ‘longest drift’ records
BMW has announced that its new M5 has grabbed two official drifting records, one for the longest drift in eight hours and one for the longest twin vehicle water-assisted drift.
The feats were achieved in South Carolina in December 2017, with instructor Johan Schwartz behind the wheel of the new high-performance sedan, which is powered by a 4,4-litre twin-turbo V8 worth 441 kW and 750 N.m. Schwartz drifted 374,2 km on a skid pad, thereby setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest drift in eight hours, shattering the previous record by a whopping 230,1 km.
BMW teamed up with North Carolina-based company Detroit Speed to develop a custom-built refuelling system that made it possible to drift continuously without a break for the full eight hours. This saw the M5 refuelled during the drift in the same way that fighter jets refuels mid-flight.
As you can see in the footage below, a second M5 (driven by Matt Mullins, the chief driving instructor of the BMW Performance Centre) joined the record-breaking vehicle on the track for the special refuelling process.
The second record was awarded for the longest twin vehicle water-assisted drift, with Schwartz and Mullins drifting together for a full hour, covering 79,3 km.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/new-bmw-m5-smashes-two-longest-drift-records/
BMW has announced that its new M5 has grabbed two official drifting records, one for the longest drift in eight hours and one for the longest twin vehicle water-assisted drift.
The feats were achieved in South Carolina in December 2017, with instructor Johan Schwartz behind the wheel of the new high-performance sedan, which is powered by a 4,4-litre twin-turbo V8 worth 441 kW and 750 N.m. Schwartz drifted 374,2 km on a skid pad, thereby setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest drift in eight hours, shattering the previous record by a whopping 230,1 km.
BMW teamed up with North Carolina-based company Detroit Speed to develop a custom-built refuelling system that made it possible to drift continuously without a break for the full eight hours. This saw the M5 refuelled during the drift in the same way that fighter jets refuels mid-flight.
As you can see in the footage below, a second M5 (driven by Matt Mullins, the chief driving instructor of the BMW Performance Centre) joined the record-breaking vehicle on the track for the special refuelling process.
The second record was awarded for the longest twin vehicle water-assisted drift, with Schwartz and Mullins drifting together for a full hour, covering 79,3 km.
http://www.carmag.co.za/news_post/new-bmw-m5-smashes-two-longest-drift-records/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 Competition Pack on its way
On the eve of the 2017 SEMA Show, images of the 2018 BMW M5 with M Performance Parts have appeared online. If the standard car's looks don't do it for you, then this could be just the solution. The best news however, is that there's a Competition Pack on its way.
In standard guise, the latest BMW M5, introduced to South Africans at the M Festival in October, is already pretty close to being the perfect blend of track toy and highway hero. Thanks in no small part to its new xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the brutal 441kW Beemer can shoot to 100km/h in a ludicrous 3.4s, making it the fastest standard M car you can buy.
But standard guise is for standard guys, so BMW released an M5 Performance Parts catalogue to tempt those with an unrelenting thirst for that little bit more, that little bit better, that little bit of extra fodder for around-the-braai banter.
It's not just a cosmetic kit either and there are improvements to the handling, aerodynamic setup and exhaust tone. There are copious amounts of carbon fibre thrown in, as pictures will attest. There's a new front splitter, side skirts, boot spoiler, rear diffuser and wing mirrors - all in carbon fibre.
Under the skin, a new set of coilovers with adjustable spring plates and more potent carbon ceramic brakes are fitted. For the US and Canadian markets, there's the option of an M Performance sports exhaust setup, which features a titanium rear muffler and carbon fibre tailpipes. BMW claims this exhaust improves the engine note as well as a fractional increase in performance. Finally, the cabin gains some improvements such as carbon fibre shift paddles, M Performance mats and a new key wallet. There's also an M Performance app which sends vehicle data direct to your smartphone.
Now they’ve taken it yet another step further with the imminent production of a Competition Package version of the M5. BMW confirmed some time ago that the M5 would be available in Competition Package guise at some point during 2018, and it now seems like the hotter model will start going into production at the beginning of April.
A post on the Bimmer Post forums revealed that the announcement was made by BMW’s head of the BMW Driving Experience during the BMW M Ice Experience event held in Sweden.
While the Performance Parts catalogue mostly consists of cosmetic odds and ends to give the M5 a more arresting look (plus a few suspension and exhaust enhancement options), the Competition Package sees the 4.4-litre V8’s power boosted by around 19kW to 460kW, making it a smidgeon more powerful than the 4.0-litre, 450kW Mercedes-AMG E63S. That’ll ruffle a few feathers.
The extra power will be a welcome extravagance over the vanilla M5, but there’s lots more to be had. The Competition Package is expected to boast even better carbon ceramic brakes, a sharper chassis, a stiffer suspension setup, exclusive alloy wheels and some subtle interior tweaks.
With production of the Competition Package edition now expected to begin in April, there’s a high chance we’ll see BMW unveiling it at the Geneva Motor Show in the first half of March 2018.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-competition-pack-on-its-way/44160/
On the eve of the 2017 SEMA Show, images of the 2018 BMW M5 with M Performance Parts have appeared online. If the standard car's looks don't do it for you, then this could be just the solution. The best news however, is that there's a Competition Pack on its way.
In standard guise, the latest BMW M5, introduced to South Africans at the M Festival in October, is already pretty close to being the perfect blend of track toy and highway hero. Thanks in no small part to its new xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the brutal 441kW Beemer can shoot to 100km/h in a ludicrous 3.4s, making it the fastest standard M car you can buy.
But standard guise is for standard guys, so BMW released an M5 Performance Parts catalogue to tempt those with an unrelenting thirst for that little bit more, that little bit better, that little bit of extra fodder for around-the-braai banter.
It's not just a cosmetic kit either and there are improvements to the handling, aerodynamic setup and exhaust tone. There are copious amounts of carbon fibre thrown in, as pictures will attest. There's a new front splitter, side skirts, boot spoiler, rear diffuser and wing mirrors - all in carbon fibre.
Under the skin, a new set of coilovers with adjustable spring plates and more potent carbon ceramic brakes are fitted. For the US and Canadian markets, there's the option of an M Performance sports exhaust setup, which features a titanium rear muffler and carbon fibre tailpipes. BMW claims this exhaust improves the engine note as well as a fractional increase in performance. Finally, the cabin gains some improvements such as carbon fibre shift paddles, M Performance mats and a new key wallet. There's also an M Performance app which sends vehicle data direct to your smartphone.
Now they’ve taken it yet another step further with the imminent production of a Competition Package version of the M5. BMW confirmed some time ago that the M5 would be available in Competition Package guise at some point during 2018, and it now seems like the hotter model will start going into production at the beginning of April.
A post on the Bimmer Post forums revealed that the announcement was made by BMW’s head of the BMW Driving Experience during the BMW M Ice Experience event held in Sweden.
While the Performance Parts catalogue mostly consists of cosmetic odds and ends to give the M5 a more arresting look (plus a few suspension and exhaust enhancement options), the Competition Package sees the 4.4-litre V8’s power boosted by around 19kW to 460kW, making it a smidgeon more powerful than the 4.0-litre, 450kW Mercedes-AMG E63S. That’ll ruffle a few feathers.
The extra power will be a welcome extravagance over the vanilla M5, but there’s lots more to be had. The Competition Package is expected to boast even better carbon ceramic brakes, a sharper chassis, a stiffer suspension setup, exclusive alloy wheels and some subtle interior tweaks.
With production of the Competition Package edition now expected to begin in April, there’s a high chance we’ll see BMW unveiling it at the Geneva Motor Show in the first half of March 2018.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-competition-pack-on-its-way/44160/
FiestaST
Honorary Master
BMW M5 Price Announced for South Africa
The price for the about-to-be launched BMW M5 has turned up on the local BMW website. Here's how much the Bavarian Autobahn weapon will cost.
The new BMW M5 heralds a new chapter for the Bavarian carmaker as it'll come to market with M xDrive all-wheel drive, a radical departure from the famed rear-wheel drive M5's of the past. It'll be powered by a revised twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine packing a hearty 441 kW and 750 Nm punch.
With launch control dialed up and using a specially tuned 8-speed M Steptronic transmission (with Drivelogic), BMW is claiming a 0-100 kph sprint time of 3.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph but can be increased to 305 kph with the optional M Driver's Package. When it comes to market in 2018, the M5 will go up against the Audi RS6 and Mercedes-AMG E63 S. You can select between different driving modes that can switch the M5 from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive configuration. The combinations of the dynamic stability control modes are: DSC on, MDM, DSC off... and the M xDrive modes are 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD.
The launch takes place towards the end of March 2018 and we'll be in attendance. As for the price, the BMW SA online configurator says that the new M5 goes for R 1 732 300, before you consider any options. We'll have an in-depth specifications and pricing article coming on the day of the launch.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-price-announced-for-south-africa/44707/
The price for the about-to-be launched BMW M5 has turned up on the local BMW website. Here's how much the Bavarian Autobahn weapon will cost.
The new BMW M5 heralds a new chapter for the Bavarian carmaker as it'll come to market with M xDrive all-wheel drive, a radical departure from the famed rear-wheel drive M5's of the past. It'll be powered by a revised twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine packing a hearty 441 kW and 750 Nm punch.
With launch control dialed up and using a specially tuned 8-speed M Steptronic transmission (with Drivelogic), BMW is claiming a 0-100 kph sprint time of 3.4 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 kph but can be increased to 305 kph with the optional M Driver's Package. When it comes to market in 2018, the M5 will go up against the Audi RS6 and Mercedes-AMG E63 S. You can select between different driving modes that can switch the M5 from all-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive configuration. The combinations of the dynamic stability control modes are: DSC on, MDM, DSC off... and the M xDrive modes are 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD.
The launch takes place towards the end of March 2018 and we'll be in attendance. As for the price, the BMW SA online configurator says that the new M5 goes for R 1 732 300, before you consider any options. We'll have an in-depth specifications and pricing article coming on the day of the launch.
https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-m5-price-announced-for-south-africa/44707/
Gtx Gaming
Gtx Gaming
Not bad Throught it would be 2mill starting price. This is a real beast!
