BMW has revealed the latest generation of its M5, which adopts a new plug-in hybrid powertrain, making it the most powerful iteration of this high-performance luxury sedan till date..

1. New M5 gets plug-in hybrid tech similar to XM
2. Gains 500kg weight over the outgoing model

New BMW M5: powertrain, performance

The new BMW M5 retains the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, but now includes an electric motor in the eight-speed automatic transmission, akin to the BMW XM SUV. The engine produces 585hp, with an additional 199hp from the electric motor, resulting in a total system output of 727hp and 1001Nm of torque. Power is distributed to all four wheels via BMW’s rear-biased xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The new M5 can sprint from 0-100kph in 3.5 seconds despite the added weight of the motor and battery, tipping the scales at around 2.4 tonnes—about 500kg heavier than its predecessor.  The top speed is limited to 250kph as standard, but can be extended to 305kph with the optional M Driver’s Package. Its 18.6kWh battery pack enables an electric-only range of 67-69km as per the WLTP cycle. In this mode, the BMW M5 can hit speeds up to 140kph and supports AC charging up to 7.4kW.

New BMW M5: equipment

The feature list includes BMW’s latest Curved Display, a flat-bottomed M leather steering wheel with illuminated M buttons, M multifunction seats with electric adjustment, a head-up display, four-zone automatic climate control, a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, a wireless charging tray, M light alloy wheels (20-inch front, 21-inch rear) with high-performance tyres, among others.

New BMW M5: launch details, price

The new-generation M5 starts at £110,500 (Rs 1.17 crore) in the UK, with deliveries scheduled to begin later this year. While its India launch hasn't been confirmed officially, it's expected next year. Currently, BMW's priority in India is the launch of the standard 5 Series, set to go on sale next month.