2025 BMW M5 Plug-in Hybrid: Driving Impressions and Review

Powertrain and Performance

• ⚡ The 2025 BMW M5 features a 4.4L twin-power V8 (S68) producing 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
• 🔋 It's a plug-in hybrid with a 14.8 kWh battery, offering up to 34 miles of EV driving range and a total of 717 hp when both electric and gas engines are engaged.
• 🚀 Acceleration is described as ridiculously fast, with instant torque from the electric motor making it feel faster than previous generations, despite some outlets testing it as marginally slower to 60 mph.
• 💨 M1 mode is configured for sport plus drivetrain and max energy recovery, providing significant regen braking off-throttle.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

• 🛣️ The car offers various settings for chassis, engine, and transmission, including an all-wheel drive sport mode that can be switched to two-wheel drive for drift mode.
• ⚠️ The Handook Ventus S1 Evo Z tires are noted as being loud, lacking traction, and sketchy in rain and cold, with a preference for Michelin tires.
• ⚖️ Weight savings from options like the carbon roof and carbon ceramic brakes contribute to a reduction of about 100 lbs, bringing the total weight to around 5100 lbs.
• 🕹️ Steering feel is described as light in standard modes but gains a more desirable weight in sport mode, though overall feedback from the chassis is somewhat distant.

Interior and Technology

• 💺 The interior features a striking M Indigo red and black Merino leather with sporty seats that proved comfortable over 900 miles, particularly the seat bottom which avoided fatigue.
• 🔊 The Bowers & Wilkins sound system is highlighted as really good, with no connectivity issues experienced during wireless use.
• 📱 Infotainment controls are a mix of screen and haptic feedback, with a quick access button for dimming all screens and ambient lighting being a well-received feature.
• 🚗 The Driving Assistance Pro package offers adaptive cruise control and steering assistance, requiring driver input every few seconds but functioning well for extended periods.

Fuel Economy and Practicality

• ⛽ Despite its performance, the M5 achieved an impressive 26.6 MPG on a highway trip, exceeding its 17 MPG highway rating, and over 100 MPGe is achievable with daily charging.
• 🔌 The charge port is easily accessible without a cover, and the hybrid system calibration is considered smoother than in other BMW hybrid models.
• 🎒 Trunk space is retained, though there is no room for a spare tire due to the battery pack and hybrid components.
• 🔑 The key fob is standard, and the exterior color, Frozen Deep Gray, is a $3,000 option that helps to visually integrate the new design lines.

Overall Impressions

• 👍 The 2025 M5 is seen as a good evolution for a daily driver and autobahn cruiser, offering immense straight-line speed and smoothness.
• 🤔 While it's a dynamically capable and comfortable package, it lacks some of the visceral feel of previous M5 generations, like the M5 CS.
• ✅ The vehicle feels well-finished and well-rounded, with satisfying materials and controls, though the overall screen-based interface can be overwhelming.
• 🌟 The upcoming M5 Touring is anticipated to be a highly desirable variant, potentially outselling the sedan.