Given there have only been five previous BMW M5s in the past 30-odd years, and given that it arguably created the supersaloon segment, the arrival of a new one marks a very significant time for fast car fans. And following the prototype drives, the information tease and the 'will they, won't they'
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, here is the F90 BMW M5 in all its glory.
Blue at the show much better than that pinky red!
Subtle, isn't it? Even in this red colour - a Launch Edition not destined for the UK - the M5 is modest. That's always been part of the appeal though, hasn't it? Points of note include a new front bumper to improve cooling, wider front wings (to accommodate a wider track), a more aggressive rear diffuser and a carbon roof for the first time on an M5. BMW describes the aesthetic as "a beautiful combination of form and function."
The interior is said to focus "entirely on the driver." Although it's quite hard to focus on the new seats, the M5-specific switchgear or anything else at all really once you've seen the 'M1' and 'M2' buttons. As before they allow personalised settings for the xDrive (OK, that bit is new), DSC, engine, transmission, steering and suspension, but for the first time they are now lacquered red. Bit garish, aren't they? Same as the red start button. Some things are best left alone BMW! Still, it looks like a lovely cabin - better than an E63 though?
Unsurprisingly the M5 is on par with that AMG in every performance parameter. The existing 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 has new turbos, increased injection pressure (now 350bar) and new exhaust manifolds, with the important numbers 600hp and 553lb ft (an E63 S is 612hp and 627lb ft). As a result the M5 can hit 62mph in 3.4 seconds (E63 S: 3.4 seconds) and 124mph in 11.1 seconds before hitting a limited 155mph top speed. BMW will point out that its car has is a wider torque curve, the peak from 1,800rpm-5,600rpm as opposed to the 2,500-4,500rpm of the E63.
Seriously though, who signed those buttons off?
Like previously the M5 will have 'Efficient', 'Sport' and 'Sport Plus' driving modes, with the option now of an M Sound Control to reduce noise levels "at the push of a button." Is that an admission it might sound a bit flat? Let's see.
Now if you're not up to date on what 4WD Sport means in an M5, see our previous story on the xDrive tricks. New information with this full release includes lower, stiffer anti-roll bars, a unique rear axle elastomer bearing, an M tune of electric steering (promising "excellent steering feedback") and compound brake pads claimed to save significant amounts of weight. The aim was "great driving dynamics and the best possible stability", with extensive testing at both BMW's track in Miramas and - you've guessed it - the Nurburgring. Tyres are 275/35 R20s at the front, 285/30 R20s at the rear and using Michelin Pilot Sport 4Ss. Ceramic brakes are optional again.
The full options list hasn't yet been disclosed, but we do know that the new BMW M5 will cost from £89,640 when it goes on sale next February. The E63? £88,295. You suspect that might be quite a close twin test!