New BMW M5 review, test drive

We drive a monster from the stables of BMW, the M5 and it also happens to be the fastest four-door saloon we have ever tested.

Published on Jul 18, 2012 07:37:00 PM

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The M5’s cabin is quite understated and don’t distance themselves enough from regular 5’s, which might be a disappointment for some. The centre console is almost identical, and it’s only the extra buttons around the stubby gearlever that tell you you’re in an M5. Other notable changes from a standard 5-series include a speedometer that reads to 330kph and an M-car-specific gear knob. So, while the cabin may not be bespoke, it’s still a very impressive place. Material quality, genuine everyday usability and the overall richness convince you that you’re driving something very expensive and well-built.

Getting comfortable behind the wheel is no problem – the driving position is excellent and the seat is fully powered. This five-seat express offers great front-seat space and even the rear occupants have enough legroom for one six-footer to sit behind another. The other bit that reinforces the M5’s everyday usability is its 520-litre boot. It’s just that, with the exhaust cans nestling right under the boot floor, the heat inside the boot can get immense.