With a 560 horsepower twin-turbo V8 lurking under its hood, the 2012 BMW M5 is finally here. Although it might have two few cylinders than last year’s model, the latest M5 is significantly faster and the best-handling M5 yet.
A 4.4-liter V8 with an M-developed TwinPower Turbo Package features the M division’s latest technology combined with BMW’s turbocharging know-how. Power is rated at 560 horsepower available from 6,000 to 7,000 rpm, which should keep fans of the M-division’s high-revving engines satisfied. Torque delivery is at the opposite end of the spectrum: A full 502 lb-ft. is available from just 1,500 rpm free,
BMW says, of any negative effects of turbo lag.
As a result, the M5 sprints to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds, or 124 mph in a mere 13 seconds flat. Its top speed is limited to 155 mph, although an available Driver’s Package will push that up to 190 mph.
Despite the power boost, BMW says that fuel consumption is down 30 percent thanks to a full complement of EfficientDynamics upgrades, like automatic start/stop and brake energy regeneration.
A robust seven-speed M Double Clutch automatic transmission with the company’s Drivelogic intelligence will be standard on M5s. Launch control, Low Speed Assistance and an M-specific gear lever help put the power to the rear wheels. One thing BMW has not mentioned is availability of a manual transmission.
Specially tuned steering works with the car’s Dynamic Damper Control and stability control with its own M Dynamic tuned mode and an M-specific active electronic locking rear differential to make the best of handling via electronic aids.
