2026 BMW M5 Unleashed: The BMW M5 is a definitive example of high-performance luxury in the executive saloon segment, combining race-derived engineering with everyday practicality for both driving enthusiasts and business professionals. The 2026 generation marks a historic shift with the introduction of plug-in hybrid technology, which increases power output to never-before-seen levels while maintaining the M5’s iconic rear-biased character. Demand for the M5 in niche markets around the world continues to exceed production.
Engine and Performance
The 2026 BMW M5 features a 4.4-liter M TwinPower Turbo V8 petrol engine, which, combined with a 145 kW electric motor, delivers a combined system output of 727 bhp and 1,000 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful M5 ever. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 305 km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package. Drive is via an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic gearbox with M xDrive all-wheel drive.
Mileage and Efficiency
The 2026 BMW M5 PHEV returns a fuel economy of 33.3 km/l in WLTP combined conditions on petrol only, and has a CO2 output of 69 g/km in hybrid mode. The 18.6 kWh lithium-ion battery provides an electric-only range of 67 km at speeds up to 140 km/h. DC fast charging at 7.4 kW restores the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 40 minutes. Pure electric mode completely disables combustion, enabling daily zero-emission commuting within city limits.
Dimensions and Usability
The M5 measures 5,060 mm in length, 1,903 mm in width, and 1,465 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,996 mm. Boot capacity with the rear seats folded is 500 liters, and the M5 Touring estate version offers 570 liters. Rear passenger legroom with the fully adjustable front seats is 195 mm. Despite weighing 2,445 kg as a PHEV, the M5 maintains a 50:50 weight distribution due to the precise placement of the battery in the floor structure.
Variants and Trims
The 2026 BMW M5 comes in two body styles: Saloon and Touring (estate). Each is available in standard M5 and M5 Competition configurations. The Competition features 17 bhp, a sportier suspension tune, unique badging, and standard black exterior trim. The First Edition was launched globally with 500 units, featuring an exclusive Frozen color, a carbon-fiber trim package, Merino leather, and a special M5 80 Years badge to commemorate the M Division’s anniversary.
Safety and Technology
Safety systems include BMW’s Personal Co-Pilot suite, which includes Active Distance Assist, Lane Change Warning, Evasion Assist, and Automated Emergency Braking with Junction-Turn Recognition. The M5 features six airbags, adaptive LED matrix headlights, night vision with pedestrian detection, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system. The M-specific braking system features six-piston fixed calipers at the front, with 400 mm carbon-ceramic discs available as an option.
Features and Comfort
Inside, the BMW M5 features a curved iDrive 9.0 display system with a 14.9-inch central touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins Diamond audio systems are available, with 36 speakers and 1,965 watts of output. Massaging, ventilated front seats feature M-specific upholstery, and the ambient interior lighting system offers 40-color customization linked to Active Drive Mode.
Pricing and Ownership
The 2026 BMW M5 Saloon starts at GBP 126,555 in the UK, AUD 229,900 in Australia, and USD 119,000 in the United States before options. It is GBP 5,000 more expensive than the M5 Touring Saloon. The standard BMW warranty is 3 years or 100,000 km. The BMW Service Inclusive package includes scheduled maintenance for 5 years or 60,000 km, and extended warranty packages up to 7 years are available through BMW Financial Services.
Final Words
The 2026 BMW M5 rewrites the rules of performance saloons with 727 bhp, an electric range of 67 km, a 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 3.5 seconds, and a top speed of 305 km/h, a practical five-seat package. Starting at USD 119,000, this car combines everyday luxury with track-ready performance in a way that no other car can match. For drivers who want the best from a four-door saloon, the 2026 BMW M5 is the performance benchmark of its time.
