With V8 grunt, beautiful interiors, and sharp looks the BMW M5 is truly still in a class of its own.
Now in its sixth year of production, the BMW M5 moves forward into 2023 with modest updates that allow the super sedan to retain a good level of poise among competition. While BMW is limiting exterior updates to colors and mild trim changes, this isn’t a bad thing, as the 5-Series line continues to shy away from the controversial grille that adorns its bigger and smaller siblings. With V8 grunt, beautiful interiors, and sharp looks the BMW M5 is truly still in a class of its own. While there is a six-figure price tag the M5 still undercuts the Audi RS7 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG in price.
2023 BMW M5
9.00 / 10
KEY FEATURES
- Standard Turbocharged V8
- Standard AWD
- M-Specific Digital Cluster
SPECIFICATIONS
- Engine/Motor: 4.4 Liter Turbo V-8
- Horsepower: 600-617
- Torque: 553 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
- MSRP: $109,895
PROS
- Over 165 Color Choices
- Exhilarating Performance
- Practical Performance
CONS
- Poor MPG
- Subscription Services For Some Tech
German Muscle
Muscle is synonymous with M5, and the 2023 BMW M5 does not disappoint. A 4.4-liter twin-power turbo V8 packing an impressive 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque is standard equipment. For those looking for just a hair more grunt, the “Competition Package” bumps power to 617 horsepower. The engine itself is an engineering marvel that features twin turbochargers and a unique cooling system with separate circuits for the engine and its turbochargers. BMW knows that the M5’s life will be full of high revs and precarious maneuvers, so they prepare the engine to stand up in tough circumstances. Power for the M5 goes through the unique M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The system features a proper rear bias, and the M-exclusive LSD splits power between the rear wheels.
“M” Performance3 Images
The 2023 BMW M5 still lives up to the heritage of the M badge. Even in year six, the powertrain offers superb performance numbers that remain competitive in the small “super-sedan” field. The standard BMW M5 reaches 60 in just 3.2 seconds, all the way to a top speed of 190 mph. The “M5 Competition” is now a package rather than a distinct model; though it still offers additional grunt that lowers the 0-60 time to 3.1 seconds, the top speed remains the same. Both cars utilize a standard 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with M5 specific programming. The xDrive system features a rear bias for the M5. The all-wheel-drive systems programming features an enthusiast focus. The “M Servotronic” steering is highly adjustable, and the steering feel is configurable through the infotainment. A track mode disables all nanny systems and dials all configurable features to their most aggressive setting, allowing you to exploit the car’s capabilities fully.
Luxurious Cabin, Tech At A Price
As one would expect, the 2023 BMW M5 features an incredibly luxurious cabin with an eye for performance. The M-specific bucket seats offer incredible support and cradle the torso with large wings that wrap around your shoulders. A three-spoke steering wheel sits directly in front of the driver. Distinctive red M buttons just in front of the paddle shifters allow for quick access to the M-specific driving features. The gauge cluster is also unique to the M5. The digital unit offers special graphics with configurable gauges. A full-color head-up display features a large amount of information to keep your eyes up when on the track. The iDrive 7 infotainment system stands proudly in the center of the dash. It remains one of the finest operating systems in the field. A physical controller remains on the center console. Tactile controls for climate are also a welcome feature. While the back seat is tight due to the large front buckets, it is still a decent space for adults of a moderate size. The rear trunk space is ten cu-ft with the seats up and 14 cu-ft with them down.
The BMW M5 offers decent technology at a price. Things like adaptive cruise control, seat heating, parking assist, and automatic high beams will all be subject to BMW’s subscription system in 2023. At the last moment, BMW (despite earlier statements that they would not) is bringing the controversial approach to the United States market. Seat heating is $18 per month or a one-time fee of $415. Meanwhile, adaptive cruise-control will be $20 per month or a $950 one-time fee. Considering these features are standard in nearly every other six-figure vehicle, it is unclear if buyers will get on board with microtransactions in this bracket.
Pricing
The 2023 BMW M5 is not a cheap car but does undercut its closest competitors. The base M5 begins at $109,900 for the standard sedan and $117,500 for the M5 Competition. Additional cost options are numerous such as $5,000 for full Merino leather and $1,950 for designer paint colors. Overall, the 2023 BMW M5 is perhaps the finest car to wear the roundel badge. Thanks to incredible performance it is unlikely that pesky subscriptions will push buyers into the competition.
