The 2018 BMW M5 is now available in the Philippines

Since 1984, BMW has offered up some of the most desirable super sedans on the planet. Now on its 6th generation, the 2018 BMW M5 was recently introduced by San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Asia Cars Distributors Corporation to the Philippine market, serving discerning clientele looking for the fastest version of the M5 yet.

As with any M-worthy vehicle, the new M5 projects an aggressive stance - a far cry from the 5 Series it is based on. New bumper trim and large air intakes, combined with a wider track, create a muscular and low stance. The hood is made of aluminum and the roof is made of extremely lightweight, high-strength carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The presence of a rear diffuser and the combination of side skirts, the M rear apron and rear spoiler, convey sporting intentions. LED adaptive headlights are also standard, creating an instantly recognizable fascia.

Under the hood of the 2018 BMW M5 is the latest and most advanced version of the 4.4-liter V8 engine that features M TwinPower Turbo technology. This gives the M5 a potent 600 hp and 750 Nm of torque, keeping up with many cars that lack two additional doors. The M5 is capable of a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.4 seconds, and a top speed of 250 km/h or 305 km/h for the M Driver’s Package. This engine is mated to a new 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic.

This entire powertrain is paired with the M xDrive system, which allows the user to switch from an all-wheel-drive mode with dynamic stability control (DSC), or the classic rear-wheel drive option with no assists, making the M5 a dynamic and configurable super sedan. All it takes is a push of the button to cycle through different driving modes, that alter engine characteristics, suspension, and assists. The flap-controlled exhaust system varies depending on the selected mode for the engine characteristics, while the M Sound Control button also allows drivers of the All-new BMW M5 to soften its acoustic presence.

As is usual for BMW M vehicles, the new chassis has been tuned for maximum stability, and has seen the likes of BMW’s race circuit in Miramas, France, as well as the Nürburgring Nordschleife. A double-wishbone suspension in the front axle of the BMW M5 has been tweaked and redesigned for this generation, as well as toying around with the five-link rear suspension to meet M-specific requirements. This in combination with the M-specific Variable Damper Control (incl. three driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus) with electronically controlled shock absorbers and M Servotronic steering (incl. three driving modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus), makes the M5 capable of aggressive track duties and civil errand running.

Speaking of running errands, the interior of the M5 seats 5 comfortably and still offers excitement and driver-focused equipment. There’s nice touches of aluminum and carbon fiber around the cabin. The large digital instrument cluster from the BMW 5 Series has an M-specific design and keeps the driver informed on the driving dynamic mode, M xDrive all-wheel-drive system’s setting, and Drivelogic option currently engaged. Key elements here for the sporty driver are the variable rpm pre-warning field and shift lights that show the best time to change gears when in manual shift mode. All of this information can also be reflected into the M-specific Head-Up Display. Virtually all of the driving dynamic systems can be configured using the central touch display, buttons on the centre console or M sports steering wheel, and the central information display offers gesture control.

The All-new BMW M5 can be ordered in a variety of exterior colors, a favorite of mine being Marina Bay Blue Metallic. There are also matt finishes such as Frozen Dark Silver and Frozen Arctic Grey that can be specified. The 2018 BMW M5 retails at P14,790,000.