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