The BMW M5 has long been synonymous with exhilarating performance and luxury, captivating automotive enthusiasts for generations. While previous iterations, particularly the twin-turbo V8 model introduced in 2013, left some yearning for the raw emotion of its naturally aspirated predecessors, the 2018 BMW M5 signaled a resounding return to form. The burning question for performance aficionados? How quickly does the new M5 achieve the benchmark 0-60 mph sprint? The answer, as revealed through rigorous testing, is nothing short of breathtaking.
Blistering Acceleration: The 0-60 MPH Sprint and Beyond
The 2018 BMW M5 doesn’t just deliver impressive numbers; it redefines them. Equipped with a potent twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine churning out a staggering 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, the M5 launches into action with ferocious intensity. BMW’s engineers masterfully integrated an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, a first for the M5, to translate this immense power into sheer, unadulterated speed.
The result? A mind-bending 0-60 mph time of just 2.8 seconds. This figure isn’t just class-leading; it catapults the M5 into the realm of elite supercars. In fact, during testing, the M5 matched the blistering 0-60 mph time of a Tesla Model S P90D, a vehicle renowned for its instant electric torque. However, the M5 truly distinguishes itself as speeds climb. By the time the quarter-mile marker arrives, the M5 has surged ahead, completing the distance in a mere 10.9 seconds with a trap speed of 129 mph, firmly establishing its dominance in the high-performance sedan segment.
Image alt text: BMW M5 launch control in action, demonstrating rear wheel spin during initial acceleration phase.
Achieving such phenomenal launch times is facilitated by the M5’s sophisticated launch control system. Engaging launch control is remarkably straightforward: simply hold the brake and accelerator pedals simultaneously. The system intelligently manages engine revs, allowing them to climb to nearly 3000 rpm when optimal fluid temperatures are reached. Intriguingly, the rear wheels initiate spin, mimicking the feel of a rear-wheel-drive car before the all-wheel-drive system seamlessly engages, propelling the M5 forward with relentless force.
While the all-wheel-drive system undoubtedly contributes to the M5’s astonishing acceleration, BMW engineers have also provided the option to disengage it, transforming the M5 into a rear-wheel-drive machine at the driver’s discretion. Testing the M5 in rear-wheel-drive mode reveals the significant advantage of all-wheel traction. In rear-drive configuration, the 0-60 mph time increases to a still-impressive 3.6 seconds, and the quarter-mile time extends to 11.6 seconds. Launching in rear-wheel drive also demands greater driver skill, requiring a delicate balance to manage wheelspin and maximize tire grip.
Beyond Straight-Line Speed: Engaging Driving Dynamics
The BMW M5’s performance prowess extends far beyond its remarkable 0-60 mph time. BMW has meticulously engineered this sedan to deliver a driving experience that is both thrilling and engaging, fostering a deeper connection between driver and machine. Unlike some modern performance cars that can feel overly digital and detached, the M5 provides a welcome sense of tactility and feedback.
The steering, often a point of criticism in contemporary BMW models, is notably improved in the M5. It feels alive and communicative, transmitting valuable information about the road surface directly to the driver’s hands. This enhanced steering feel contributes significantly to the M5’s agility and responsiveness, making it feel surprisingly nimble for its size.
Image alt text: BMW M5 exhibiting impressive cornering grip and minimal body roll during track testing.
On the track, the M5 showcases its impressive handling capabilities, registering 0.98 g on the skidpad. While pushing the limits of grip, the front tires communicate their protest with audible chatter, a characteristic that adds to the sense of driver involvement. However, on public roads, the M5 transforms into a remarkably balanced and composed machine. The chassis feels lively yet secure, instilling confidence and making the M5 feel smaller and more agile than its dimensions might suggest. There’s a genuine sense of joy to be found in driving the M5 with verve, a feeling that had been somewhat diminished in previous generations.
Luxury and Refinement: A Dual Character
While performance is paramount in the M5’s DNA, BMW has not compromised on luxury and comfort. The M5 adeptly balances its high-performance capabilities with the refined attributes expected of a luxury sedan. In Comfort mode, the electronically adjustable dampers work their magic, providing a ride quality that is remarkably smooth and composed, akin to a standard 5-series model. While Sport and Sport Plus modes stiffen the suspension for enhanced handling, they remain usable for everyday driving, albeit with a firmer ride.
The cabin of the M5 is a sanctuary of luxury and driver-focused design. The leather-upholstered seats are both supple and supportive, providing exceptional comfort during spirited drives or long journeys. The upright windows and expansive glass areas create an airy and spacious ambiance, a welcome departure from some competitors with more claustrophobic cabins. Road and wind noise are effectively suppressed, contributing to a serene and relaxing environment, even at high speeds. At a 70 mph cruise, the sound level registers a hushed 66 decibels, further emphasizing the M5’s refinement.
A Return to Form: The Modern M5 Masterpiece
The 2018 BMW M5 represents more than just a new model; it signifies a renaissance for the iconic performance sedan. It retains the core values that have defined the M5 lineage while embracing modern technology to elevate performance and driving enjoyment to new heights. The breathtaking 0-60 mph time is just one facet of the M5’s multifaceted appeal. It’s a car that excels not only in outright speed but also in delivering an engaging, rewarding, and genuinely thrilling driving experience. BMW has successfully rediscovered the essence of what makes an M5 truly special, creating a sedan that is both a technological tour de force and a driver’s delight.
