2025 BMW M5 Review: The Ultimate Hybrid Super Saloon Redefines Performance and Luxury
By Redline Reviews | May 24, 2025
The 2025 BMW M5 (G90) roars onto the scene as a plug-in hybrid super saloon, blending a 717-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with electrified efficiency. Priced from $119,500 for the sedan and $121,500 for the new M5 Touring wagon, it promises supercar thrills, luxury comfort, and a 27-mile electric range. With a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating and tech like a 14.9-inch iDrive 8.5, is this the ultimate fast saloon? I’ve pored over Redline Reviews’ YouTube walkaround, X posts (@BMWBLOG, @MotorTrend), and web data to bring you this in-depth review. From Miami’s boulevards to Chicago’s highways, here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 M5. Let’s hit the gas!
A Legacy of Power: What’s New for 2025?
Since 1984, the BMW M5 has defined the super saloon, selling over 350,000 units worldwide, per @BMWBLOG. The 2025 G90 generation, the seventh iteration, introduces a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time in the US, pairing a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 with a 194-hp electric motor, per the transcript. Total output? A staggering 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, channeled through an 8-speed ZF automatic and xDrive AWD (switchable to RWD). It’s bigger too—200.6 inches long, 2.7 inches wider, and 1.5 inches taller, per Redline Reviews.

The M5 Touring wagon joins the lineup, offering 18–50 cubic feet of cargo vs. the sedan’s 16.5 cubic feet, per @MotorTrend. With a 0–60 mph sprint of 3.06 seconds (tested), a 190-mph top speed, and a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, the M5 aims to outshine rivals like the Audi RS7 (~$130,000) and Mercedes AMG GT 63S (~$195,000). But at 5,390 lbs, it’s 1,000 lbs heavier than its predecessor, sparking debate, per @BMWBLOG. Does it still deliver the M5 magic? Let’s dive in.
Performance: A V8 Beast with Electric Bite
The heart of the M5 is its 4.4L twin-turbo V8, tweaked for 2025 and paired with a 14.8-kWh battery and 194-hp electric motor, per the transcript. The V8 alone pumps out 577 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system hits 717 hp, per @MotorTrend. Redline Reviews clocked 0–60 mph in 3.06 seconds using launch control in M2 mode, beating BMW’s 3.4-second claim, even on damp roads. “Violent” launches make the front wheels “claw at the asphalt,” per the transcript, with 738 lb-ft of torque overwhelming the 285/40R20 front and 295/35R21 rear Hankook Ventus tires.’

The 8-speed ZF automatic shifts “brutally” like a dual-clutch, per Redline Reviews, with carbon fiber paddle shifters for manual control. xDrive AWD ensures grip, but a button toggles RWD for tail-happy drifts, per @BMWBLOG. Rear-wheel steering and adaptive M suspension hide the 5,390-lb weight, delivering “no body lean” in Sport Plus mode, per the transcript. On South Carolina’s BMW proving grounds, it handled “like it’s on rails,” rivaling lighter M3s, per @MotorTrend.
Real-World Scenario: In Miami, Raj, a 35-year-old enthusiast, floors his M5 sedan in M2 mode, hitting 60 mph in 3.06 seconds. The V8’s “bark” and exhaust “crackles” thrill, but damp roads challenge traction, per Redline Reviews.
Verdict: The M5’s performance is supercar-grade, with precise handling despite its heft. Rivals like the AMG GT 63S (2.7 seconds) are quicker, but the M5’s versatility shines, per Car and Driver.
Hybrid Efficiency: Green Meets Mean
The M5’s plug-in hybrid system, a first for the US, offers 27–30 miles of electric range (tested), per the transcript. A 7.4-kW onboard charger fills the 14.8-kWh battery in ~4 hours, costing ~$1/day at $0.15/kWh, per @BMWBLOG. In Electric mode, it hits 87 mph with 194 hp, taking ~9 seconds to 60 mph, per Redline Reviews. Hybrid mode yields 35–40 MPG with a full charge, beating the EPA’s 12 city/17 highway (19 MPG mixed, tested). A 16-gallon tank delivers ~350 miles total range, per the transcript.
Without charging, the $2,600 gas guzzler tax stings, and 24 MPG highway (tested) lags the Audi RS7 (17/25 MPG), per Car and Driver. E-Control mode preserves battery for later, ideal for mixed drives, per @MotorTrend. Hans Zimmer’s fake EV sounds add drama, unlike the silent Bentley Continental GT, per Redline Reviews.
Real-World Scenario: Emma, a 40-year-old Seattle exec, uses Electric mode for her 20-mile commute, saving ~$1,500/year vs. gas (19 MPG, $4/gallon). The “visceral” EV sounds keep it fun, per the transcript.
Verdict: The M5’s 30-mile EV range and 35–40 MPG hybrid efficiency outpace the AMG GT 63S’s 1-mile range, per Car and Driver, making it a practical eco-warrior.
Design: Bold, Aggressive, and Sophisticated
The 2025 M5, based on the new 5 Series, turns heads with Frozen Deep Gray matte paint ($3,000 option) and a carbon fiber package (roof, mirrors, spoiler, $3,000), per the transcript. Illuminated kidney grilles (Executive Package, $2,500) glow at night, while adaptive LED headlights, sequential LED turn signals, and slim LED taillamps add flair, per @BMWBLOG. At 200.6 inches long and 2.7 inches wider, it’s “low, wide, and imposing,” per Redline Reviews. Quad exhausts and a chunky rear diffuser scream performance, per @MotorTrend.



The carbon fiber roof lowers the center of gravity, but skips the sunroof, a drawback vs. the Audi RS7, per the transcript. Large air intakes feed the intercooler, though unprotected from debris, per Redline Reviews. 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels with a rear-drive bias enhance stance, per @BMWBLOG.
Real-World Scenario: In NYC, Liam, a 38-year-old lawyer, parks his M5 sedan at a gala. The illuminated grilles and matte paint draw stares, but he worries about rocks hitting the exposed intake, per the transcript.
Verdict: The M5’s design balances aggression and sophistication, outshining the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing’s subtler look, per Car and Driver, though grille protection needs work.
Interior: Sporty Luxury with Minor Misses
Step inside, and the M5’s Merino red leather interior (upgraded, real leather) feels “plush,” per the transcript. 16-way power M seats (heated/ventilated, Executive Package) are “aggressively bolstered” yet “coddle” drivers, per Redline Reviews. The flat-bottom M steering wheel with carbon fiber paddles and M1/M2 buttons is race-ready, per @BMWBLOG. A carbon fiber dash ($300) and Alcantara headliner elevate luxury, but piano black trim shows fingerprints, per the transcript.



The 14.9-inch iDrive 8.5 touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cockpit run wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, per @MotorTrend. Bowers & Wilkins 21-speaker audio delivers crisp sound, per @BMWBLOG. The interaction light bar (customizable colors) spans the dash, but plastic window switches and no massaging seats disappoint vs. the RS7, per Redline Reviews. Quad-zone climate and a crystal iDrive controller add upscale touches, per @MotorTrend.
Real-World Scenario: Sarah, a 42-year-old Chicago mom, loves the M5 Touring’s red leather and heated seats for winter drives. The iDrive’s “overwhelming” menus frustrate her, but the audio wows, per the transcript.
Verdict: The M5’s interior blends sporty flair and luxury, trailing the RS7’s opulence but beating the CT5-V Blackwing’s simplicity, per MotorTrend.
Technology: Cutting-Edge but Complex
The M5’s tech suite is a highlight, with the 14.9-inch iDrive 8.5 offering “endless customization,” per the transcript. M-specific gauges shift in Sport mode, and the 360° camera with perimeter scan eases parking, per @BMWBLOG. Driver Assistance Pro ($2,000) adds adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and automatic braking, per @MotorTrend. A wireless charger and two USB-C ports keep devices juiced, per Redline Reviews.
However, the iDrive’s menus are “overwhelming,” requiring setup time, per the transcript. Screen-based climate controls slow adjustments vs. physical buttons, per @BMWBLOG. The auto walkaway lock/unlock and remote start (via key fob) add convenience, per @MotorTrend.
Real-World Scenario: In San Francisco, Jake, a 30-year-old tech exec, syncs his phone to iDrive for seamless navigation. The 360° camera saves him in tight lots, but he fumbles with climate menus, per Redline Reviews.
Verdict: The M5’s tech is top-tier, rivaling the RS7 but needing simpler menus, per Car and Driver.
Safety: A Fortress on Wheels
The M5 earns a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and active M differential for stability, per @BMWBLOG. Driver Assistance Pro includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and semi-autonomous driving, per the transcript. The 360° camera and radar sensors enhance parking and highway safety, per @MotorTrend.
Real-World Scenario: In Denver, Priya, a 39-year-old doctor, relies on adaptive cruise for I-70 traffic. Blind-spot alerts save her during rush hour, per Redline Reviews.
Verdict: The M5 matches the RS7’s 5-star safety, outpacing the CT5-V Blackwing’s 4-star NHTSA rating, per Car and Driver.
Practicality: Sedan vs. Touring
The sedan’s 16.5-cubic-foot trunk (40/20/40 split seats) fits four carry-ons, per the transcript. The M5 Touring offers 18–50 cubic feet, ideal for families, per @MotorTrend. 36.9 inches of rear legroom suits average adults, but sport seats cramp taller passengers, per Redline Reviews. Rear heated seats, quad-zone climate, and manual sunshades (Executive Package) add comfort, but no ventilated rear seats lags the RS7, per @BMWBLOG.

Real-World Scenario: In Atlanta, Mike, a 45-year-old dad, picks the Touring for its 50-cubic-foot cargo, hauling kids’ sports gear. Teens complain about tight legroom, per the transcript.
Verdict: The Touring’s practicality beats the RS7’s 24.6 cubic feet, but rear space needs improvement, per MotorTrend.
Ownership Costs: Value in a Premium Package
Starting at $119,500 (sedan) or $121,500 (Touring), the M5 undercuts the Audi RS7 ($130,000) and Mercedes AMG GT 63S ($195,000), per the transcript. A loaded model with Executive ($2,500), Driver Assistance Pro ($2,000), and carbon packages ($3,000) hits $136,000, per Redline Reviews. X posts (@BMWBLOG) praise its “bargain” status.
- Fuel Costs: ~$2,500/year (12,000 miles, 19 MPG, $4/gallon) or ~$600/year (hybrid, 35 MPG, $0.15/kWh).
- Maintenance: ~$1,200/year (oil, brakes, tires), per MotorTrend.
- Insurance: ~$2,500/year, similar to RS7, per Car and Driver.
- Depreciation: ~45% after 5 years (~$61,200 loss on $136,000), per Kelley Blue Book.
- Gas Guzzler Tax: $2,600 (one-time), per the transcript.
- Total 5-Year Cost: ~$76,250 (hybrid mode), ~$20,000 less than AMG GT 63S, per MotorTrend.
Real-World Scenario: In Phoenix, Lisa, a 50-year-old CFO, leases her M5 sedan for ~$1,800/month. Charging nightly saves ~$1,900/year vs. gas, per Redline Reviews.
Verdict: The M5’s value shines vs. pricier rivals, though high maintenance stings, per Car and Driver.
Driving Experience: Dual-Personality Mastery
The M5’s M1/M2 modes toggle between comfort and track-ready thrills, per the transcript. Comfort mode softens the ride for daily drives, hitting 24 MPG highway, per Redline Reviews. M2 mode tightens suspension, sharpens steering, and amplifies exhaust “pops,” per @MotorTrend. Electric mode offers stealthy city cruising, while MDM mode enables drifts, per @BMWBLOG.
Real-World Scenario: In LA, Tom, a 33-year-old car vlogger, cruises in Comfort mode for traffic, then hits M2 on canyon roads. The “lightning-fast” steering thrills, per the transcript.
Verdict: The M5’s versatility outpaces the CT5-V Blackwing’s raw focus, matching the RS7’s balance, per MotorTrend.
Who’s It For?
- Luxury Buyers: Sedan for NYC’s upscale commuters.
- Enthusiasts: M2 mode for Miami’s track fans.
- Families: Touring for Atlanta’s practical parents.
- Eco-Conscious: Hybrid for Seattle’s green execs.
Need a plusher cabin? Try the Audi RS7. Want raw speed? Check the AMG GT 63S.
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
717 hp, 0–60 in 3.06 seconds | 5,390-lb weight hampers agility |
27–30-mile electric range | No massaging seats, soft-close doors |
5-star Euro NCAP safety | Tight rear legroom for tall adults |
$119,500 price beats rivals | 12/17 MPG without charging |
Touring’s 50-cubic-foot cargo | Complex iDrive menus |
Comparison Table: M5 vs. Rivals
Feature | BMW M5 | Audi RS7 | Mercedes AMG GT 63S |
---|---|---|---|
Price | $119,500–$136,000 | ~$130,000 | ~$195,000 |
Horsepower | 717 hp | 621 hp | 831 hp |
0–60 mph | 3.06 sec | 3.1 sec | 2.7 sec |
EV Range | 27–30 miles | None | ~1 mile |
Cargo (Max) | 16.5 (50, Touring) cu ft | 24.6 cu ft | 12.7 cu ft |
Safety | 5-star Euro NCAP | 5-star Euro NCAP | 5-star Euro NCAP |
MPG (City/Hwy) | 12/17 (35–40 hybrid) | 17/25 | 15/21 |
The Verdict
The 2025 BMW M5 redefines the super saloon with 717-hp hybrid power, a 27–30-mile EV range, and 5-star safety for $119,500. Its 3.06-second 0–60 mph sprints, Touring wagon practicality, and cutting-edge tech outshine the Audi RS7 in value and the Mercedes AMG GT 63S in efficiency. The 5,390-lb weight, tight rear legroom, and complex iDrive are drawbacks, but its dual-personality versatility—smooth commuter or track beast—makes it a legend. Test drive at BMWUSA.com, share your thoughts below, and subscribe for more!
Sources:
- YouTube: The 2025 BMW M5 Is The Ultimate German Super Saloon With Twin-Turbo Hybrid V8 Performance
- X: @BMWBLOG, @MotorTrend
- MotorTrend: 2025 BMW M5 Review
- Car and Driver: BMW M5 vs. Rivals Comparison
- BMWUSA.com: M5 Specifications