It was an exciting day at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca for the unveiling of the all-new 5th generation 2013 BMW M5. We didn’t get a chance to drive the latest M car, but BMW did turn on the power and allow invited auto media to explore every detail of the Bavarian sports sedan.
The M5’s 4.4-liter twin scroll / twin turbo V8 produces 560 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque between 1,500 and 5,750 rpms. This low-end power allows the self-motivated Bimmer to run 0 to 62 in 4.4 seconds. Power is transferred by way of a new high-torque 7-speed M-Double Clutch (M-DCT) transmission with Drivelogic. A good point to reference is that BMW’s technology philosophy, EfficientDynamics, plays a major role with the mathematical advances in the 2013 M5. Engine productivity has improved by roughly 10% with maximum torque increasing 30% and fuel consumption being reduced by 30%. Pretty impressive!
Aluminum is utilized for the hood, front fenders and doors to offer extended weight reduction. An M5 19” light alloy wheel package is circumvented by front 265/40 R19 tires and wide 295/40 R19 rear rubber. A 20” forged M light-alloy wheel is optional.
Inside, BMW motivated the M5 with customized M sports seats, Merino extended leather upholstery, M5 badged door sills, an M driver’s footrest, exclusive Aluminum Trace interior trim strips, the BMW Anthracite roof liner and a new 10.2” display for iDrive. Two M Drive buttons are positioned on the left side of the steering wheel to allow drivers to program vehicle settings to their liking.
Europe will experience the M5 by end of year which is good for them. Expect to see the vehicle on U.S. roads spring 2013.
