BMW has unveiled the 2018 BMW M5, which marks the introduction of the sixth generation M5, since its introduction in 1984. The highlights of the new M5 are its 600 horsepower V8 and standard all-wheel drive system that features a unique rear-wheel drive mode.
Under the hood of the 2018 BMW M5 is powered by an updated version of the twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine that generates 600 hp and 553 lb-ft. of torque, increase from the previous generation of 40 hp and 53 lb-ft. The twin-turbo V8 is mated to a new 8-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive system to transfer all of that power to the road. The 2018 M5 reaches 0–60 mph in only 3.2 seconds, making it the quickest M5 yet. It has a 189 mph top speed with optional M Driver’s Package.
From a start, the M xDrive system defaults to all-wheel drive, but drivers can easily select the 2WD mode to lock it in rear-wheel drive. In the default setting with both DSC and 4WD activated, the 2018 BMW M5 allows a certain amount of slip at the rear wheels when accelerating out of corners. Switching to the M Dynamic mode (MDM, 4WD Sport) gives an additional performance boost. In this mode, more drive torque is directed to the rear axle, while the amount of permissible rear wheel slip is increased.
Beyond the updated V8 and M xDrive system, the new M5 also features M compound brakes or optional M carbon ceramic brakes that provide a 50 lb. unsprung weight reduction. 19-inch wheels are standard, but 20-inch wheels are optional.
The styling of the new M5 will set it apart from the other 5 Series models with a more aggressive front bumper with large air intakes, an aluminum hood, more aerodynamic mirrors and a carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof. At the rear there’s a new bumper that houses a four-tailpipe exhaust system.
The 2018 BMW M5 will arrive in showrooms next spring. BMW has also announced the release of the limited BMW M5 First Edition. The BMW M5 First Edition has exclusive Frozen Dark Red Metallic paintwork and includes BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line trim. This means that the kidney grille, the M gills and the four tailpipes of the sports exhaust all come in high-gloss black. The M5 First Edition comes standard with 20-inch seven-double-spoke light-alloy wheels in black. Only 400 units will be produced and only 50 of those are headed to the U.S.
Source: BMW
